Our "Once an Eagle" series, presented by GEICO, features American University graduated student-athletes from across all of our sports. We're checking in on their lives and success stories since leaving AU. This edition features volleyball alum Cynammon (Burns) Allen. She's a 2010 graduate of the School of Communications with a bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism, and also received a minor in justice.

1) Please share your current professional situation (employer, job title and duties)? 

I am the Managing Attorney at Burns Allen, PLLC and a Program Officer at the Kleinert Foundation. At Burns Allen, I specialize in Education law (advocating for students with disabilities), Business law (advising and counseling businesses), and Entertainment law (advising and counseling individuals and businesses in the entertainment industry). At the Kleinert Foundation, I research funding opportunities and proposals and decide grants from the foundation in addition to learning about new nonprofits and social enterprises that focus on eradicating homelessness and sex trafficking.

2) How are you personally coping with the challenging times we're facing right now as a nation? 

This is just a strange time! We are living through history at this moment and I feel like we are in a movement similar to the 60s but we have access to social media. During this time when racial injustice is at the forefront, I have noticed conversations with my white friends especially have shifted and I can appreciate that. I think people are trying to learn what they don't know, but I will say this injustice is exhausting. We are tired. I am tired. So, sometimes it takes a mental toll on me. But, I am glad the conversations are being had.

The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed everything down and I decided early on, during the shelter in place orders, that I was going to take advantage of the stillness and be still. Being still is something I have always struggled with, so having a time that forced me into the stillness was important to recognize. During the pandemic, I have been able to do a ton of self-reflection and exercise gratitude daily for remaining employed, spending time with family and the little blessings that have come out of this pandemic.

3) How did your participation in AU Athletics aid in your personal and professional paths following graduation? And today?

I think participation in AU Athletics gave me the confidence to do what it is that I wanted to do and to be unapologetic about it. I just think about all of the hurdles that would be placed in my way while participating in AU Athletics and how I not only survived but thrived most times, and I apply that to my personal and professional life. I think, I might as well do it. It may be hard, but I will get through it and thrive. 

4) What is your most fond memory of AU Athletics?

Honestly, I think my fondest memory of AU Athletics is the friendships I was able to build while being there across all sports. I met some of my best friends and my husband at AU. Those memories of sport and being together are the memories I cherish the most.

5) What do you miss most about American University?

I miss being around my friends the most! For four years, we were all in the same place and had access to each other every day. Now we all live around the world and it's so hard to get everyone together.

6) What advice do you have for current AU student-athletes?

Enjoy this time because it really is the best time of your life and you will NEVER be able to get it back.