Wyman honors alum Sandrea Cogio at the 2026 Amplify Gala
Three alumni and two community partners were honored at Wyman’s 2026 Amplify Gala for their extraordinary commitment to young people, the community, and Wyman.
Our alumni honorees represent the incredible impact of connection – young people who found their voices and strength through Wyman and have gone on to build meaningful paths forward. Today, they continue to amplify hope and opportunity for others in their communities.
Sandrea Cogio’s story brings this impact to life. Now a leader in her work and at her school, Sandrea is deeply committed to supporting the next generation of leaders.
Sandrea Cogio is a Wyman Leaders and Teen Outreach Program alum, and a dedicated volunteer on Wyman’s Alumni Committee.
Her journey with Wyman began in 2013 as a 6th grader at Carr Lane Visual Performing Arts Middle School. Through TOP, she was nominated for and joined Wyman Leaders.
In 2024, Sandrea graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a bachelor’s degree in Corporate Communication and a double minor in Management and Marketing.
She’s now completing her final semester of graduate school, working toward her master’s degree in Higher Education Administration with a certification in Trauma and Resilience. On top of her academic work, Sandrea serves as a Hall Director on campus, a graduate intern in the Office of Student Conduct, a manager at White Castle, AND supports individuals with personalized workout plans and meal preparation.
Sandrea stays engaged because Wyman programs helped prepare her for the accomplishments she has already achieved and continues to pursue. She gained exposure to diverse experiences, learned to step outside her comfort zone, and built lasting relationships – including meeting her best friend, Talijah. As a member of the Alumni Committee, Sandrea’s reconnecting with her peers and encouraging them to re-engage, so the next generation can receive the same support and opportunities she did.
Sandrea says, “My mother laid a strong foundation for each of her children, instilling in us the belief that success was possible. It was then up to us to remain connected, step forward, and embrace the opportunities placed before us. Because of the values, confidence, and leadership skills Wyman instilled in me, I am committed to giving back. Sharing my story with younger Wyman teens has been meaningful. These students are the next generation of leaders, and I am proud to support an organization that continues to equip them to make a lasting impact on the world.”
As a first-generation college student, Sandrea has faced challenges, but with support from her Wyman coaches – including Rogue, Smile, Tweety, Tiny Tunes, and Tootsie – she developed her own blueprint for success. Sandrea embodies what is possible with determination and perseverance.
Beyond Wyman, Sandrea has been a leader in her school. She has been an advocate for other students through the McNair Scholars Program, TRIO Student Support Services, and the Educational Access Program.
Sandrea continues her commitment to supporting young people because she understands the challenges they face and believes deeply that it takes a community to support and uplift them. Providing support is a responsibility she takes seriously, and a purpose that continues to drive her work and commitment to community impact.
Read about all our 2026 Honorees:
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