Alumni Spotlight: Ginai Seabron

You may have seen Ginai Seabron in the news recently for becoming Virginia Tech’s first-ever African American woman to graduate with a degree in nanoscience. Long before she was making history and national headlines at Virginia Tech, Ginai was a member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond.

She was introduced to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond shortly before middle school. Ginai and her mom were looking for a summer program. Marvin Green, then a program director at the former Central Club, encouraged her to check it out. 

It didn’t take long for Ginai to feel at home with the welcoming atmosphere and supportive staff. She didn't just stay for the summer, she stayed for the next few years.

The staff, Ms. Millier and Ms. Morris, soon recognized that Ginai was a “natural-born leader” and nurtured that innate ability. She began by being an “extra hand” for the program staff and quickly became a counselor-in-training. She also joined the Keystone Club, which focused on making a positive impact around the Club and the community.

“The Club helped strengthen those leadership skills and gave me the confidence that I have now which allows me to stand up for what I believe in,” she said.

Ginai remembered that she was always trying something new at the Club. Sometimes she was in the computer lab, but most of the time, she was finding her creative side, whether it was drawing, painting or dancing. Feeling free to explore those things you find most interesting is a great opportunity for any budding scientist.

Throughout her journey from the Club to Richmond Community High School to Virginia Tech, Ginai learned not to be afraid of reaching out to different places and making connections. She encourages today’s Club members to do the same on their journeys.

“Anything you put your mind and your heart to, you can do,” the nanoscientist said.

Have an alumni story you’d like to share? Drop us a note: communications@bgcmr.org