Her ability to work with people has propelled Antonia Royal Whitmore ‘17 in her career as both a Placement Specialist and a business owner.

It wasn’t always that way for the Illinois native, who arrived at Midland University thanks to an opportunity to continue her bowling career. “I remember having the worst anxiety on presentation days, and I struggled with public speaking and had a difficult time fitting in,” she said. “However, by the middle of my second year at Midland, I was able to present confidently. Although there were stressful times during my psychology journey, Dr. (Jamie) Simpson and Dr. (Connie) Taylor prepared me well to navigate the world after college.”

Being at Midland made Antonia feel secure and appreciated. “I really liked the intimacy Midland provided,” she said. “There was an efficient amount of one-on-one time with professors, the campus was never crowded, and the environment was wholesome and safe.”

In her role as a Placement Specialist at Community Health Systems in Tennessee, Antonia helps find psychiatric placement for patients in the emergency room. “Although my initial goal was to become a therapist, the knowledge and information I obtained at Midland applies to my life and business,” she said. “Anytime you’re dealing with a person, you’re dealing with psychology.”

She is also the owner of Publack Library Publishing. The goal of the company is to diversify the literary industry with representative, relatable, and accurate storytelling. Publack partners with individuals and organizations that help sponsor classroom sets of books for underprivileged children. Anyone interested in sponsoring a classroom can email info@publacklibrary.org.

“Some of my proudest accomplishments are publishing my very first bilingual children’s book, having over a dozen books published, partnering with Steak ‘n Shake to give local teachers a free shake, hosting my first successful book event, graduating from Midland University, and moving out of my hometown,” Antonia said.

In her spare time, her hobbies include reading, writing, marketing/content creating, traveling, networking, and being with family and friends.

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