MEMPHIS, Tenn. – For the first time in its near 70-year history, the National Pre-Alumni Council of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) will be led by a Stillman College student.
Junior criminal justice major Akayia K. Allen was named the president of the UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council (NPAC) on Feb. 22 during the 2025 UNCF National Leadership Conference at the Renasant Convention Center. Allen will serve in the role for the 2025-2026 academic year.
“It is an honor to represent Stillman in such an amazing way. I thank God for blessing me to be in the spaces that I prayed for in high school,” Allen said.
Hailing from the small town of Purvis, Mississippi, Allen is the first Stillman student to serve as NPAC president since the student-led organization was created in 1958. The UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council serves as the governing body for each on-campus PAC at UNCF member institutions.
“Today, we celebrate not just a victory for Akayia personally, but a new chapter in Stillman’s legacy as our first national president with the UNCF-NPAC. As she steps into this role, having previously served as national secretary, we look forward to her continuing the good work she has already started, both locally and nationally,” said Jean Wilson, director of Stillman’ College’s Office of Alumni Affairs and advisor to the Stillman PAC.”I am very proud of her and Stillman’s PAC 2024-2025 for representing Stillman in a manner that is in line with the mission, vision, and goals of the college.”
Students who are elected to serve on the National Pre-Alumni Council board are given leadership responsibilities and encouraged to participate in alumni activities prior to and after graduation.
Allen is actively involved in campus life at Stillman, serving in 2024-2025 not only as the NPAC secretary, but the Stillman PAC vice president and president of the non-Greek organization Intelligent Black Women (IBW), which hosts events, participates in community service, and uplifts black women in the community. She is also a member of the NAACP, a Williams Institute Scholar, Student Government Association treasurer, and secretary for the Psychology Club. She was also part of the winning non-Greek women’s team in the 2025 Homecoming Step Show.
After graduation, she plans to join the Tuscaloosa Sheriff’s Department and later work for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a special agent.
Nine Stillman College students participated in the UNCF Leadership Conference: Allen, Marshall Bradberry, Myles Bradberry, Gianna Ellison, Gennie Evans, Malyc Grant, Kalin Lewis, Jayden Mills, and Cameron Parker. Ellison represented the College as Miss UNCF-Stillman in the Miss UNCF Pageant.
Two Stillman alumni were also honored: Outstanding Alumnus Danny Neal, Sr., and Outstanding Young Alumna Satin Noland.
Incorporated in 1944, the United Negro College Fund is a philanthropic organization to provide scholarships to black students and 37 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Stillman College.
All students enrolled at UNCF-member HBCUs are encouraged to become members of the National Pre-Alumni Council.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
