When was the last time you seriously considered building agency for yourself? In this episode of the “Owning Your Strength” series, we’re joined by Dell Ivy, Program Manager for Student Experience at the University of Houston’s CT Bauer College of Business. As a second-generation college graduate, Dell draws from his journey as a TRIO Coordinator and the child of nontraditional college graduates. He highlights the importance of building agency, finding mentors, expressing your voice, and staying intentional inside and outside the classroom. Dell shares practical advice for navigating parental pressures, building reputation after setbacks, and embracing mentorship and autonomy. Find out how he reminds students to stay resilient, seek direction, and not take life too seriously as they shape their own unique path. Dell completed both his M.S. in Higher Education Leadership in Student Affairs and his Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi. As a dedicated advocate for student development and mentorship, Dell credits much of his own success and confidence as an undergraduate to the transformative power of student success initiatives. Inspired by those experiences, he is committed to creating and sustaining programs that empower students through mentorship, teamwork, and confidence-building. Guided by these principles, he strives to exceed student expectations and ensure every student has access to meaningful, impactful experiences that foster both personal and professional growth. To learn more about Dell and his work, visit his website at UH.edu or connect with him on LinkedIn.