COLUMBIA, Mo. — For most student-athletes, balancing academics and athletics is already a demanding challenge. For junior Alonna Harvey-Williams, the addition of military service makes her journey all the more unique. As a student-athlete and veteran, she has embraced the trials of each role, using them to strengthen her resolve both on and off the court.
 
Harvey-Williams took a gap year in 2023-24 and enlisted in the military. After leaving her home and going for basic training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C., in March 2024, she found herself navigating an entirely different structure and discipline. However, basketball was never far from her mind.

"My journey as a veteran and student-athlete has not been easy, but it has been bittersweet," Harvey-Williams said. "Adding a third commitment showed me true adversity and dedication. I stayed in contact with the assistant coach before leaving for basic training, and once I graduated, I reconnected with Stephens and Coach Bell. Now, here I am."

Transitioning from military service back to collegiate life was an adjustment. The structure of military training left her accustomed to strict scheduling, regimented meals, and a consistent routine. Returning to the civilian world brought back a sense of freedom that required readjustment.

"It was weird at first because I had become institutionalized to that lifestyle," she said. "But over time, I found a balance between my civilian and military life. In a way, I live two different lives, but I kind of like it."

The discipline and mental fortitude developed in the military have significantly impacted her approach to both academics and basketball.

"The military showed me that I literally can do anything I put my mind to," she said. "There were things in training that I didn't think I was capable of, but I did them. Now, no challenge feels as difficult in comparison."

Her dedication to basketball is driven by her team and coaches, who push her to be her best each day. The sport itself shares similarities with military service, particularly in teamwork and trust.

"The competitive aspect of basketball is my favorite," Harvey-Williams said. "I don't like losing, and I love the sisterhood. Just like in the military, you have to trust your team. Without trust, chaos follows."

Harvey-Williams has developed a structured regimen to stay physically and mentally sharp. She incorporates push-ups and sit-ups into her daily routine and maintains a strong support system by journaling and staying in touch with friends and fellow service members.

Her proudest moments at Stephens go beyond the basketball court. This spring, she was accepted into the nursing program, putting her on the path to achieving her goal of becoming a registered nurse.

"Just being able to get back into school and balance being a full-time student-athlete is something I'm incredibly proud of," she said. "It wasn't easy, but I made it happen with great opportunities and support."

A key part of her success has been the Mission Promise Kept program, which supports veteran students at Stephens College. The program has provided essential resources, including housing and access to veteran benefits, and has created a community among student veterans.

"Mission Promise Kept has helped me in so many ways I wouldn't have imagined," she said. "Being able to live in my own space with other veterans has been everything I wanted. Elizabeth Herrera, our advisor, is an incredible leader who ensures we have access to resources and opportunities."

Harvey-Williams carefully manages her time between athletics, academics, and military obligations by maintaining open communication with her coaches and professors, as well as staying organized with a planner.

Looking ahead, she has clear goals for her time at Stephens and beyond.

"I want to complete my bachelor's degree in nursing, earn my RN certification, and finish my basketball career strong," she said. "After graduation, I plan to explore the world as a certified travel nurse."

For Harvey-Williams, her journey is about more than just excelling in multiple roles; it's about proving that commitment, resilience, and the right support system can lead to success in all aspects of life.

To learn more information about Mission Promise Kept at Stephens College, please visit Mission Promise Kept.