When Kitona Offord Jackson reflects on her time as a student-athlete at Cal State East Bay, it's not just the wins, records, or accolades that come to mind. It's the people. It's the shared huddles, the grueling practices, the long road trips filled with laughter, and the lifelong friendships built on a foundation of trust, sweat, and sacrifice. That spirit of connection and community still guides her today.

A proud member of the Pioneer Class of 2014, Offord Jackson played a key role in Cal State East Bay's transition from Division III to Division II, anchoring the team as they entered the fiercely competitive CCAA. Her presence at the net was commanding as she is fifth in the program's all-time list for career blocks with 247. 

But for Kitona, volleyball was never just about the numbers. "Being a Pioneer taught me persistence, teamwork beyond the court, and how much connection matters in everyday life," she says. 

Her Pioneer career was marked by steady growth and standout moments. As a junior in 2011, she earned Second Team All-CCAA honors, leading the team in kills and attack percentage while ranking third in the conference in hitting efficiency. That season, she posted double-digit kills in 14 matches, hitting over .300 in 18 contests.

The following year, 2012, she redshirted, but when she returned in 2013, she had a veteran presence and was a team leader, starting 27 of 30 matches, finished fourth in scoring, and once again led the team in total blocks. Fittingly, her final season also placed her toward the top the school's blocking leaderboard.

Offord Jackson's time in Hayward, though, was about more than just volleyball. It was about growth. Today, she works in the employee experience space, managing team engagement and culture programs. Her mission is to foster environments where people feel valued, energized, and seen. "Being a Pioneer helped lay the foundation for how I build my community and drive impact in my professional career today."

That ability to lead with heart is something she credits to the women in her life including her family, mentors, and any woman striving to become her best self. Now, she carries that legacy forward, striving to model purpose, resilience, and compassion for her own daughter.

"I strive to model that same balance for my daughter: that hard work is meaningful – especially when you are passionate about the why. Staying true to your values is non-negotiable, and how you make others feel is just as impactful as any achievement."

Though it's been more than a decade since her last match in a Pioneer uniform, Kitona Offord Jackson still feels deeply connected to the program that helped shape her. She offers a heartfelt message to today's student-athletes:

"To current Pioneer volleyball players - cherish this experience. It goes by faster than you think, and it's truly one of the most special chapters you will live. Lean into those around you. Focus on what you are building as a team, and the individual accomplishments will come. Whether you see yourself as a leader or not, you are one. You influence someone every day – through your energy, your work ethic, your words, and even your presence. Show up fully for yourself and your teammates. These moments are shaping not just your game, but the kind of person and leader you're becoming beyond the court."

For those who watched her career, and for the many she's inspired since, it's clear: Kitona Offord Jackson's impact is far-reaching. A powerful legacy forged by heart, hustle, and the unshakable bonds of Cal State East Bay volleyball.