Taliyah Brooks, Communication Alumna and Olympian

Taliyah Brooks is a two-time University of Arkansas Department of Communication alumna earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degree from the program. She is also a former University of Arkansas Track and Field athlete.  

Brooks qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris after she finished third in the Heptathlon at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Oregon in June 2024.  

In her first visit to the Olympic games, Taliyah travelled to Paris, placing 11th in the Women’s Heptathlon. As she says in an Instagram post, Taliyah “placed 11th and lived out one of her dreams,” adding that she is, “forever an Olympian.”  

Brooks made her first appearance at the 2024 Olympics after disappointment struck in 2021. Brooks endured a medical event that took her off the track during the Olympic qualifier for the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo. Despite this setback, Brooks was determined to make it to the 2024 Olympics. Her determination and dedication showed true Olympic spirit as she worked her way through the setbacks of the past three years, earning her spot to compete in Paris.  

Taliyah can still be spotted around Fayetteville, as she works as an emcee for the University of Arkansas Football and Men’s Basketball games. 

Written by Lacie Bryles, marketing and programs specialist

Photo by Razorback Athletics Dept.