Victoria Calvin (Class of 2020)

Leaving her hometown of Franklin, TN for the sunny Gulf coast, Victoria Calvin chose the University of South Alabama for its proximity to family, affordable tuition, and welcoming community. She began as a psychology major but quickly discovered her passion for anthropology under the mentorship of Dr. Lesley Gregoricka, focusing on bioarchaeology. South’s Anthropology program shaped Victoria’s commitment to empathy and diverse perspectives, lessons that continue to guide her career. Through hands-on experiences like studying ancient skeletal remains and assisting the Mobile Police Department with a forensic recovery, she broadened her skills and deepened her outlook on the human experience. She also became South’s first National Science Foundation REU fellow (2019) and received the USA Student Anthropology Paper Award, milestones that gave her confidence in her path and opened doors for future opportunities. Victoria especially remembers the encouragement of Dr. Erin Nelson, who fueled her graduate school aspirations, and the humor of Dr. Mark Moberg, who reminded her that even the toughest coursework could be paired with laughter and a good Monty Python reference.

Victoria later pursued graduate work in bioarchaeology at Sonoma State University, publishing her first article and beginning a thesis on evoking empathy for past lives through the stories told by skeletal remains. These opportunities deepened her perspective and sharpened the skills she would carry forward into her professional journey.

In 2021, Victoria transitioned into the world of finance and brought her anthropological training with her. At Equitable Advisors, she became Operations Coordinator of the Tennessee branch, creating the company’s first Women’s Financial Empowerment Event (now a nationwide initiative) and developing EVP Assistant study groups inspired by the collaborative discussions she enjoyed as an undergraduate. Victoria applies the lessons of anthropology every day, seeking to understand human needs, celebrate diverse perspectives, and lead with empathy. She brings these values to life through initiatives like launching an Office Culture Positivity Award in honor of a late colleague and partnering with the YWCA to deliver essentials to women in need. Victoria is deeply grateful to her mom and grandparents for their unwavering support throughout her college journey, and to Dr. Lesley Gregoricka for her outstanding mentorship, which continues to inspire her both personally and professionally.