Alumna Recognized As a 30 Under 30 Honoree Leading Positive Storytelling at Oyster Creative Co. & The Page Turners Book Club

Cecily Milligan '18 is entering a new chapter as a Pittsburgh Business Times 30 Under 30 honoree, while she leads positive storytelling at Oyster Creative Co., an alumni-run marketing and public relations agency based in Pittsburgh.

Looking back, she reflects that marketing wasn't originally a career she had considered as a psychology major and education minor, but says her time at Allegheny College helped her develop skills she continues to use to this day.

Milligan's first interaction with marketing started on campus as vice president of marketing for Gator Activities Programming and as a visit experience intern for the Office of Admissions. Additionally, she served as president of Alpha Chi Omega and as a teaching assistant.

I really owe a lot of where I am now to my time at Allegheny and the people I met there," notes Milligan. "I don't think I realized at the time how much those experiences were shaping me. I was just saying yes to opportunities, trying new things, and leaning into the encouragement around me - especially from people who saw things in me that I didn't always see in myself.

Outside of her work with Oyster Creative Co., Milligan leads Page Turners Book Club. The idea originated in her apartment, but has since grown to 85+ bibliophiles gathering once a month to discuss their latest novel. Free to join, the experience includes activities like games and crafts for participants to engage in.

"Seeing friendships build and businesses grow has been incredibly rewarding and humbling," says Milligan. "Sharing stories is such a beautiful way to facilitate connection, share experiences, and grow empathy."

Milligan continues to partner with independent bookstores and women-owned businesses to expand their community. The Club also supports charitable drives, including UMPC Magee-Womens, Dress for Success Pittsburgh, and the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank.

Recalling her time as a first-year student, Milligan reflects on reading Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. She says that exposure to different ideas during her studies at Allegheny College has shaped how she approaches problems and opportunities.

"You need to stay curious and compassionate: look for new perspectives, educate yourself, and use your privilege to build equity in (and beyond!) your community," shares Milligan. "I'm very fortunate to have found a true community at Allegheny - and that's extended far beyond my time on campus. Being part of these communities taught me the value of connection, inclusion, and shared perspectives."