Testimonials
"In an era of “gotcha” activism, Krystal Augustine is a throwback to a time when external change agents were guided by moral principles and a desire to understand a problem by working collaboratively to achieve win-win solutions. She is a high-energy, analytical young woman who leads with kindness. She has never sought to embarrass others and sees all human beings as worthy of grace, mercy, and justice. She is a living example of the change she seeks. She endeavors to figure out the relevant questions before rushing to judgment to propose simple solutions for complex and evolving problems."
-Dr. Edward Joyner Retired College Professor and Executive Director of the School Development ProgramYale University
"My name is Veronica Alston. I had the pleasure of meeting Krystal Augustine through a close friend of mine who thought Ms. Augustine would be influential in helping to grow my upcoming non-profit organization. I automatically felt connected to Ms. Augustine after meeting her for the first time because we both share a passion for helping to make a difference in the lives of residents in the New Haven community. I was very impressed with how she advocated for and taught children in the New Haven area. After getting more acquainted with Ms. Augustine I invited her to be a guest speaker on the New Lifestyles Virtual Empowerment Lounge where her topic was “Boundaries: Establishing the Peace Within”. She delivered a powerful message to women who were either in recovery or struggling with drug abuse. Her message was powerful and impactful to those who were in attendance. Ms. Augustine also wrote a reference letter on my behalf that helped me to receive a laptop computer through Harlow Grant which is designed to provide technology devices to blind and visually impaired individuals. Ms. Augustine has motivated and inspired me to be the voice for those who are in need of advocacy and encouragement."
-Veronica Alston
Krystal’s conscientious care for the communities she serves is evident in programs she created such as “I Belong: Having a Seat at the Table.” Whether through her motivational speaking, workshops, or community gatherings, she consistently creates spaces where individuals feel valued and empowered. I've admired Krystal’s ability to lead with empathy and authenticity, and I'm excited to see how 6.17 will continue to impact lives positively.
-Maurice L. Harris,
Ph.D.
Director of Marketing and Communications
Schwarzman Center
Yale University
"Coach Krystal made a big impact on my life with cheerleading. She wasn’t just a coach; she was an inspiration. She makes me want to be a cheer coach. Coach Krystal encouraged us to be different and stand out. Every time we had a new routine with different moves that we made and it POPS. She might correct you here and there when you’re wrong, but she will always make sure you’re comfortable. Coach Krystal is not an ordinary coach. She’s the BOMB. She’s good at whatever she does and what her hands can carry and that’s what makes her unique. She’s an amazing person and I’m praying for the best."
-Nahalia
"Hi, my name is Sara Middleton, and I'm a former cheerleader who used to call Coach Augustine's cheer squad. It's been one of the best opportunities of my life. It taught me Confidence, sisterhood, and rhythm. My experience was great. I learned how to do things that I was too scared even to try because I had Coach Augustine to boost my confidence and cheer me on! I also love doing many of the routines she's come up with because they're so funky and cool! She was one of the best coaches I ever had, who kept up with the trends and was sometimes hard on me, but it just made me better. Overall, Coach Augustine has made me a better person, whether it was helping someone else become more confident or doing something really weird in front of a crowd. She's made me the person I am now."
-Sara Middleton
"Working with her as my coach was an incredibly positive experience. She was not only knowledgeable and supportive, but also genuinely kind and uplifting. Her energy and engagement with the group were always inspiring — she made sure everyone felt included and motivated. Whether it was through her thoughtful check-ins, encouraging words, or the way she brought us all together, she created a space where growth and confidence could really flourish. I walked away from each session feeling more empowered and capable. I’m truly grateful for her guidance and encouragement."
-Val
"A few years back, I had the absolute privilege of hearing Krystal Augustine speak on a virtual platform hosted by a women’s empowerment organization where I served on the Board of Directors and also volunteered. Her topic, “Boundaries: Establishing Peace
Within,” immediately captured my attention not just because it was powerful, but because it was deeply relatable to my own life experiences.
For 20 straight minutes, I was fully engaged. Her words were timely, honest, and healing. The mission of our platform is to empower, encourage, and equip women with the resources they need and Krystal did just that. Her message was one of those rare moments that reaches you exactly when you need it, even if you didn’t realize you did.
I left that session feeling inspired, uplifted, and reminded of my inner strength and I know I wasn’t the only one. I look forward to hearing her speak again."
-Robin Little-Bowman
"When I think of Krystal Augustine her name resembles a larger-than-life personality, full of commitment, intentional engagement and purpose whether it’s a workshop or social event! Her smiling face leads to good intentions towards others where it is impossible to be in her space and walk away without being changed! Krystal is continually growing and determined to bring others along. "
-Pamela Cox
"Krystal is the kind of leader who turns vision into meaningful action. I first met her at the inaugural Belonging event after COVID, where she transformed uncertainty into connection- creating a space that was safe, welcoming, and powerful. She leads with authenticity, empathy, and a rare ability to make everyone feel seen. I’m proud to know her and even prouder to have partnered with her through the Working Women’s Network at Yale."
-Paula
"Krystal is the curator of cool. Events planned by Krystal attract a crowd that enjoys great food and music. She has worked hard to produce events that create community and connection. Yale has a hard working staff, and they deserve to have events that allow them to be together, make new friends and just unwind & have fun. I always look forward to these events because I know much thought has gone into them and I will have a great time.."
-Sabrina Whiteman
"Krystal is a vibrant woman who has made room for those who may not initially feel they belong in the spaces they occupy. Her leadership in fostering inclusive environments where everyone is welcomed to celebrate our differences is truly admirable and challenging to accomplish. Her bold and fearless approach has inspired me to pursue my own dreams with greater confidence."
-Tiffanie Holmes
Being part of your community feels like coming home—your genuine care and encouragement
creates a safe space where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Your warmth and unwavering
belief in our growth shine through in every conversation and event, reminding us that we truly
belong and can thrive together.
- Earl McCoy, Jr.
"Krystal has been a joyful and motivated collaborator. Always brimming with ideas, Krystal’s passion for creating community is inspiring. By bringing people together through fun shared experiences, Krystals creates a welcoming and easeful environment, where friends and colleagues become community."
-Jennifer Harrison Newman
Associate Artistic Director
Schwarzman Center
Yale University