Maddie Bell

When she arrived on campus in 2016 to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Communication, she immediately connected with the energy, pride and community that define what it means to be a Bearcat.

“From day one, I fell in love with UC,” Maddie says. “The campus, the people, the excitement — I knew right away that I was in the right place.”

Maddie threw herself into student life, getting involved across campus and embracing every opportunity to cheer on Bearcat Athletics.

Whether she was in the stands at Nippert Stadium or courtside at Fifth Third Arena, she made the most of every game day and every moment.

When Maddie graduated in 2020, her Bearcat pride didn’t end with a diploma.

“I just couldn’t stay away,” she laughs. “Being part of the UC community means you’re always part of something special — even after graduation.”

Those years spent cheering the Bearcats from the stands helped Maddie realize just how deeply UC had shaped her, personally and professionally. The friendships she made, the experiences she had and the lessons she learned all became a foundation for her next steps.

In 2023, Maddie’s journey came full circle when she returned to UC, this time, as a staff member. Now, in her role recruiting students for UC Online programs, she gets to share her love for the university every day.

“Helping students discover UC and watching them start their own journeys is incredibly rewarding,” she says. “I see a little bit of myself in every student who’s excited to become a Bearcat.”

During her time back on campus, Maddie also completed her Master’s in Higher Education Administration — another milestone in a journey fueled by her passion for learning and helping others succeed.

From a first-year Communication student to a two-time UC graduate and staff member, Maddie’s story is proof that UC isn’t just a stop along the way, it’s a lifelong connection.

“UC has shaped me in every way,” she says. “It’s where I found my purpose, my confidence and my community. My Bearcat pride will always run deep.”