MURFREESBORO, N.C. — Chowan University proudly celebrates alumna Allison Traub ’22, ’23 (MOL), who has earned her Ph.D. in Health Sciences from Liberty University, becoming the first graduate of Chowan’s Master of Organizational Leadership (MOL) program to go on to complete a doctoral degree.

Traub shared the exciting news after officially completing her Ph.D., marking a significant academic milestone in her already impressive journey.

After transferring to Chowan from the University of Tampa and Northern Virginia Community College, Traub completed her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2022. She immediately continued her education at Chowan, enrolling in the Master of Organizational Leadership program in the summer of 2022 and graduating in the summer of 2023.

Reflecting on her time at Chowan, Traub credits the University with laying the foundation for her doctoral success.

“My experience at Chowan laid the foundation for everything that came after it — academically, professionally, and personally,” Traub said. “As a student-athlete, I learned discipline, resilience, and the importance of balancing high expectations in the classroom and in sport. The academic rigor I encountered in the MOL program strengthened my critical-thinking skills and pushed me to engage with complex ideas in meaningful ways. By the time I began my Ph.D., the habits of inquiry, reflection, and perseverance that I developed at Chowan had already prepared me to thrive.”

Traub described the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership program as transformative in shaping both her leadership philosophy and professional confidence.

“The MOL program taught me that leadership is not about the title you hold, but the impact you make,” she said. “I found my voice as a leader — one rooted in empathy, service, and accountability. What I learned empowered me to step confidently into my career, so much so that I became a college professor at just 22 years old. That opportunity wasn’t about being the youngest in the room; it was about being prepared.”

Today, Dr. Traub serves as an Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at Newberry College, where she is investing in the next generation of health and exercise science professionals. She continues to draw upon the foundational lessons she gained at Chowan — lessons that shaped not only her leadership style, but the way she supports and mentors others.

Traub also expressed deep gratitude for the faculty and mentors who influenced her journey.

“The faculty in the MOL program invested in me not just as a student, but as a whole person,” she said. “Their belief in my potential gave me confidence in moments when I didn’t fully see it in myself.”

She also reflected on the impact of her experience as a member and captain of the women’s soccer team, where early mornings, shared challenges, and a culture of accountability helped shape her character.

In addition, Traub credited Dr. Hunter Taylor for encouraging her to pursue doctoral studies.

“He saw something in me that I hadn’t yet learned to see in myself,” she said. “I remember staying on long Zoom calls asking question after question while I felt overwhelmed and unsure. He never once made me feel out of place. His patience and belief helped me push through some of my toughest moments. I truly think that’s what Chowan is all about — the people there.”

For current and future MOL students, Traub offers this advice:

“Lean into the process. The MOL program will challenge you, but it will stretch you in all the right ways. Seek mentorship, ask questions, and don’t shy away from uncomfortable moments — those are often where the most growth happens. And most importantly, trust that you belong in every room your hard work leads you to.”

To those considering pursuing a doctorate after completing the MOL program, her message is simple:

“Go for it. The transition to doctoral-level study is absolutely achievable with the foundation Chowan provides. If you approach it with purpose, discipline, and the belief that your voice matters, there is no limit to what you can achieve.”

Chowan University congratulates Dr. Traub on this outstanding accomplishment and celebrates the lasting impact she continues to make in higher education.

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About Chowan University
Chowan University is a Christian liberal arts university located in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, committed to preparing students to discover their purpose through academic excellence and experiential learning.