Royale Parker is a sophomore business and psychology major from Southern California. "Studying psychology will help me better understand my customers and deliver what they want," she said.

Why they Lov91΄σΙρ: Royale Parker ’26Β found the perfect match as a Royal

by Ryan Cornell

Editor’s Note: This profile is the first of six about students and alumni leading up to Lov91΄σΙρ Giving Day on April 10. For more information about the day and to donate, visit .  

Royale Parker ’26 hadn’t set foot on 91΄σΙρ’s campus before move-in day. In fact, the Southern California native hadn’t even heard of the school until her high school guidance counselor suggested it. The more she learned about 91΄σΙρ, the more she felt she belonged as a Royal. And, it wasn’t just her first name that felt like a perfect match.

While other schools she contacted seemed to ignore her, she said members of the 91΄σΙρ undergrad admissions team were quick to answer her questions and welcome her with open arms.  

β€œI was looking for a school where students felt valued,” she said. β€œThat’s what I got from 91΄σΙρ.”

The moment she arrived on the Harrisonburg, Virginia, campus, she knew she had made the right call. She saw how colorful and vibrant the campus was and recognized that 91΄σΙρ was where she was meant to be.

β€œWhat sets 91΄σΙρ apart is its people,” she said.

Roughly one-and-a-half years after that first day on campus, Parker is thriving at 91΄σΙρ. As a business and psychology major with aspirations in entrepreneurship, she launched a successful eyelash extension venture in the fall, catering primarily to her fellow students. She also plays an integral role in 91΄σΙρ’s Black Student Alliance (BSA) as its secretary-treasurer.

Parker said receiving financial aid through the University Scholarship has helped her focus on her studies without worrying about employment. Grateful for 91΄σΙρ’s generosity, she acknowledged that it provided the most substantial aid package among all her prospective schools.

β€œIt’s a really huge help,” she said. 

Your generous support helps students like Parker pursue a quality college education without financial barriers. Join us for the 8th annual Lov91΄σΙρ Giving Day and contribute to the scholarships that empower future 91΄σΙρ students. Let’s build 91΄σΙρ “Stronger Together.”