Courtesy of Tuskegee University
The Pre-Alumni Council of Tuskegee University recently participated in the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Leadership Conference in Jacksonville, Florida. During that meeting, council members elected Kayla Thomas, a Tuskegee junior computer science and information system major, to serve as the president of the National Pre-Alumni Council. She has served on the board as the Central Regional Director.
In her role as president of the UNCF Pre-Alumni Council, she will engage students and alumni in activities that promote a sense of community and pride. Thomas, a Birmingham native, is the fourth Tuskegee student to hold the position in 10 years. Jamon Pulliam was the first student to hold the position in 2014; Laryssa Anderson was elected to serve a term in 2017, followed by Andrea Stokes in 2019.
The UNCF conference also featured an opportunity for two Tuskegee students, Daryl Cossy Jr. and Jaelyn Graves, to walk away with $1,500 each in scholarships from Wells Fargo. In addition to other accolades, the Tuskegee Pre-Alumni Council won two National Pre-Alumni Council Awards: The Hightower Award for the most people representing Tuskegee University in attendance and PAC Member of the Year, which was awarded to Aissa Bah.
“We are incredibly proud of our Pre-Alumni Council members for their active participation and engagement at the UNCF Leadership Conference,” said Kymberly Holland, Alumni Affairs and Reunion Programs coordinator. “Conferences like this one provide valuable learning experiences and empower our students to become effective leaders and advocates for change.” This annual event brings together student leaders from UNCF-member institutions to engage in dynamic discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities to enhance their leadership skills and prepare them for future success.
During the three-day conference, 22 Tuskegee Pre-Alumni Council members interacted with peers from other universities, industry professionals, and thought leaders. They participated in sessions covering various topics, including leadership development, career readiness, and community engagement. The conference also featured keynote addresses from prominent leaders in numerous fields, inspiring attendees to strive for excellence and positively impact their communities.