Lylle Reynolds-Parker, BA ’91 (sociology)

Icon Award Winner

When she was in the eighth grade, a counselor told Lyllye Reynolds-Parker that her opportunities were limited as a Black female. After that point, Reynolds-Parker promised herself that she’d do her best to make a positive impact on youth of color, and females of color specifically.

In 1986, she was admitted to the University of Oregon at the age of 40. Five years, later, she completed her bachelor’s degree in sociology and minor in women’s studies. After graduation, she went to work as a receptionist for internal medicine doctors at the Eugene Hospital and Clinic, where she served diverse patients with empathy and care.

After three years in that position, Reynolds-Parker was hired by the University of Oregon as an Academic Advisor in the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

“I was blessed to find my passion and purpose as an advisor working with first-generation students of color,” Reynolds-Parker said. “I was aware that in order to serve the needs of the students, I would have to gain their trust and respect. I found this a simple matter of bringing my head and my heart to my vocation.” 

She excelled in this role for 17 years, networking across departments to increase access, fighting for second and third chances for students on the Scholastic Review Committee, and promoting a feeling of belonging for all she served.

Reynolds-Parker retired in 2012, and her legacy is lasting in so many ways. In 2019, she was honored through the naming of the UO’s Black Cultural Center, a welcoming and supportive space that helps Black students harness the resources necessary to navigate their social, cultural, and academic experience.