Contact: Kawana McGough, Division of Development and Alumni Engagement
University recognized for outstanding attendance, alumni excellence, and student scholarship achievements
Tuskegee University was recognized with multiple distinctions during the
2026 UNCF National Alumni Council (NAC) and National Pre-Alumni Council (NPAC) Leadership Conference, held last month, at The Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria in Houston. The annual convening brings together a network of more than
500 college students, alumni leaders, HBCU representatives, sponsors, and partners to build leadership capacity, strengthen advocacy, and advance support for UNCF member institutions. Tuskegee University earned multiple honors throughout the weekend, including the George L. Hightower Attendance Award for its delegation of 43 representatives; additional NPAC recognition for
PAC IT UP Pantry and
HBCU R.O.D.E.O.; alumni honors during the UNCF Legacy Gala; and national recognition for students named Empower Me Tour Merit Scholarship–FedEx winners. Together, these achievements reflect Tuskegee’s continued excellence in leadership, service, and student success.
“Tuskegee University has entered its Renaissance Era and recognition from the UNCF reflects the power of leadership, service, and excellence working together,” said Dr. Mark A. Brown, President and CEO. “From the strength of our alumni and the accomplishments of our students to the impact of our National Pre-Alumni Council, these honors affirm that Tuskegee continues to lead with purpose and prepare the next generation to make a meaningful difference for Mother Tuskegee.”
Founded in 1944, UNCF has raised more than $5 billion to help over 500,000 students earn degrees and support its network of HBCUs—an effort co-founded by former Tuskegee president Dr. Frederick D. Patterson. The UNCF National Alumni Council (NAC) and National Pre-Alumni Council (NPAC) Leadership Conference advances that mission by convening alumni and students for workshops, networking, and celebrations that strengthen HBCU leadership and engagement.
Tuskegee University Accolades and Recognitions:
George L. Hightower Attendance Award
- Tuskegee University won the George L. Hightower Attendance Award with 43 present.
UNCF Alumni Awards (Legacy Gala)
- Aja West ’16 — UNCF 2026 Outstanding Young Alumni Award
- Bjana Adams ’05 — UNCF 2026 Hall of Honor Outstanding Alumni Award
Empower Me Tour Merit Scholarship – FedEx Winners (Student Awards)
- Dainesha Evans — Junior, Business Administration (Supply Chain Management), Atlanta, Georgia — $2,500
- Charles Griffis IV — Junior, Business Administration (Supply Chain Sales & Marketing), minor in Computer Science, Los Angeles, California — $2,000
- Jayden Minisee — Graduating Senior, Public Health Nutrition, Huntsville, Alabama — $2,500
Elections and Leadership (Project S.T.A.Y.)
During the conference, Tuskegee representatives were elected/reelected to leadership roles connected to Project S.T.A.Y. (Students Transitioning to Alumni Every Year)—a UNCF program designed to support a smooth, successful transition for graduating HBCU seniors into active, loyal alumni. Project S.T.A.Y. builds lasting connections between future alumni and National Alumni Associations, encouraging a spirit of philanthropy, volunteerism, and lifelong support for their institutions.
The following individuals were elected/reelected:
- NAC (National Alumni Council) President — Laryssa Anderson ’18
- NAC (National Alumni Council) Recording Secretary — Dr. Sanchez Rolle ’18, ’24
- NPAC (National Pre-Alumni Council) President — Aissatou Bah (current student)
Support Tuskegee’s UNCF Joint Campaign
Help support student opportunities like this through the Tuskegee/UNCF Joint Campaign. Your gift strengthens student success by funding scholarships and critical resources that expand opportunity and sustain the legacy of HBCU excellence. To give, visit
www.tuskegee.edu/tugives and select “Tuskegee/UNCF Joint Campaign.”
© 2026 Tuskegee University
