LEGACY BLUEGala
OPENING GREETINGS
Ms. Javicia Leslie, '09 & Mr. Jamie Roberts, '98
Hosts of the Evening
REFLECTIONS
Ms Javicia Leslie, '09 & Mr Jamie Roberts, '98
May 17, 2025
On behalf of the members of the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc, it is with immense pleasure and gratitude that we welcome you to the NHAA, Inc. National Scholarship Gala, hosted at the magnificent Pier Sixty in New York City.
This evening is a celebration of excellence, as we support the worthy cause of providing funding for the Student Emergency Fund which assists students at Hampton University. We appreciate your support of our beloved “Home by the Sea.” We are honored by your presence tonight and hope you enjoy the evening. The planning committee led by Tiyale Hayes has done a spectacular job providing you with an experience to remember I thank them for their tireless effort that has produced this extraordinary evening
To our generous sponsors, we extend our deepest appreciation. Your contributions have been instrumental in bringing this gala to fruition and, more importantly, in supporting the NHAA, Inc. Student Emergency Fund. Your support is changing the lives of the next generation of Hamptonians.
Hampton University continues to be an institution that provides its students with an “Education for Life.” Our President Darrell K. Williams is committed to providing our students with the #1 Experience in America. The alumni in this room understand the importance of HBCUs as a matter of choice today vice necessity in the past. We are committed to the future of Hampton University for generations to come.
Stacy and I are honored to be able to share this Gala Celebration with you. The association looks forward to your continued support at future Galas. Thanks again for helping to build the next era of Hampton University’s legacy.
In That Hampton Spirit, b/c: "I Am 1968"
Willie Williams, Jr.
President, National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc.
2024-2026
"We Are Stronger Working Together"
JaviciaLeslie OURHOSTS
Actress, visionary and philanthropist
Javicia Leslie is an actress, visionary and philanthropist committed to making her mark on the world. She is best known for her reign over Gotham City as Ryan Wilder in D C 's “Batwoman ” Her casting made global history as the first Black actress to portray Batwoman. Since her debut in 2019, she has quickly become recognized as one of young Hollywood's most heralded stars and was featured on The Hollywood Reporter’s highly coveted “Next Big Thing'' list
JaimeRoberts
multi-talented comedian, entrepreneur, and producer
Born in Brooklyn and raised in Amityville, NY, Jamie Roberts is a multi-talented comedian, entrepreneur, and producer known for his sharp, high-energy performances. Jamie’s passion for comedy ignited early when he was voted ‘Funniest Person’ by his senior class. Since then, he has captivated audiences nationwide and internationally, performing in Jamaica, Antigua, Mexico, and Grenada. He has graced the stages of iconic venues such as The Apollo Theater in Harlem, The Strand Theater in Oak Bluffs, Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor, and The Laugh Factory in Hollywood
Briana Gibson Reeves is an award-winning, classically trained actress and voice-over artist whose dynamic career spans stage and screen. A proud Hampton University alumna (Class of 2008) with a BS in Economics, Briana's journey from the halls of academia to the spotlight showcases her multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to the arts.
Her rich mezzo-soprano voice has breathed life into a myriad of characters, captivating audiences with its depth and versatility. She brings a blend of classical rigor and contemporary soul to every role she inhabits from portraying the Virgin Mary in the Off-Broadway world premiere of Made by God at the Irish Repertory Theatre to acclaimed performances in Richard III, As You Like It, and Emma. Briana’s repertoire also includes vital works of contemporary Black theatre such as Flyin’ West, The Amen Corner, and Stick Fly. Her voice-over work and vocal agility have made her a sought-after narrator and performer across media platforms.
She also wears the hat of playwright, ha completed a creative residency at Colleg Minnesota where she wrote a one-act p Crack, with plans for a formal staged re a producer, she is currently developing Finding Faith, in collaboration with Ted to air this fall.
Beyond the stage, Briana is the visionar Improv, a coaching company that uses i theatre to transform teams and organiz background as a curriculum designer in approach to coaching teams, emphasizi collaboration, problem solving, and com
Rooted in excellence and driven by purp
Briana Gibson Reeves
Voice of the Evening
Entertainment
Leanne “L-Stringz” Holmes
Leanne “L-Stringz” Holmes is a professional violinist and entertainer. Originally from Atlanta, GA, she has been classically trained for close to two decades, and has developed her niche in performing contemporary music such as Hip-Hop and RnB. Her music career started in high school, where she started performing solo as L-Stringz at the age of 16 As L-Stringz, she has performed for and with some of the top venues/artists to date including: The Atlanta Hawks, The Atlanta Dream, The Harlem Globetrotters, Honda Battle of the Bands, 2Chainz, 50 Cent, 85 South Show, and more.
L-Stringz's career continued to flourish in college where she majored in Music Performance. During her time at Hampton, she continued to perform not just solo but also for the university, including the HBCU Awards, MEAC and CIAA Competitions, and to date she is the only violinist to perform the National Anthem at Honda Battle of the Bands. After college, L-Stringz went on to continue to perform professionally and additionally created her band “The Gentlemen” in Baltimore, MD “The Gentlemen” are composed of Keys (James Moore, c/o 2019 QTX), Bass (Gene Alestock), and Percussion (Morgan Cotton) .
LEGACY BLUEGala
In every performance, L-Stringz provides a “New Music Experience” that engages the audience in any setting to be able to connect with music on a more personal level. Her goal when performing is to show violin in spaces that you don’t see. L-Stringz has been featured on shows such as Married to Medicine, and “STAR” on FOX as well as programs for the NFL, WNBA, CIAA, New York Fashion Week, and Rolling Out Magazine. Outside of her performing, L-Stringz is an advocate for arts education and is a proud initiated member into Sigma Alpha Iota (E-OTA) International Music Fraternity, Inc
You can follow L-Stringz on all social platforms: Instagram @L Stringz and @The Gentlemen, Twitter and TikTok @LStringz
For bookings, please visit www.lstringz.com
OURDJs
After Party
DJ CAMO ‘16 is a nationally recognized open-format DJ celebrated for his ability to seamlessly navigate and dominate any musical environment. A proud member of the world-renowned Heavy Hitters an elite collective of the top DJs globally Camo was named the 2024 Heavy Hitter Spotlight Best DJ of the Year, cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s premier talents.
Yacht Party
DJ Precise ‘98 is a native of Jamaica, Queens in New York, was introduced to the art of DJing through his father at the age of eight. In the early 90’s, DJ PRECISE attended Hampton University where he began his broadcast radio career at WHOV 88 1 FM Since then, Precise has been requested around the world, spinning at clubs and events from Boston to Costa Rica and booking engagements by companies like Viacom, NBC, JP Morgan Chase, MTV Networks and PepsiCo.
T H E H I S T O R Y O F
The National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc.
At a meeting of graduates of the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, held in Saratoga Springs, NY, on August 20, 1877, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted:
"As in the providence of God, our alma mater will have been in successful operation 10 years at the close of this session. As it is the custom of the graduates of well-established schools and colleges to assemble within the walls of their alma mater, we think it will be fitting to hold a reunion, in the decennial year, composed of all the graduates or as many as can make it convenient at this time, for the purpose of forming the Alumni Association of the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute.
Throughout its rich history, the National Hampton Alumni Association (NHAA), Inc has steadfastly pursued its mission, adapting to the evolving needs of Hampton University and its community. Since its inception, the Association has remained committed to key pillars: student recruitment, fundraising, membership expansion, and technological innovation
From its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to the modern era, NHAA's journey has been marked by significant milestones Including sparking initiatives such as the acknowledging the Emeritus Class and hosting biennial conventions to further strengthen the NHAA's bonds and contributions to Hampton University
The National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc is proud to support all Hamptonians as they are leading the legacy.
Today, as NHAA, Inc. navigates the 21st century, its commitment to alma mater remains unwavering Guided by the words of Hampton University founder General Samuel Chapman Armstrong, NHAA stands resolute in its mission: "Hampton must not go down!"
Willie Williams Jr., ‘83
National Board President
April Broadway, ‘88 First National Vice President, Merit Awards Chair
Patricia Perry, ‘84 Vice President (Eastern Regions)
Kathryn (Kat) Land, ‘84 Vice President (Western Regions)
Wayne Greene, ‘83 Treasurer, Audit/IRS Specialist
Kagame Li-A-Ping, ‘17 Assistant Treasure
Cherise McAdoo, ‘18 Recording Secretary
Raquel Watson, ‘95 Corresponding Secretary
Diamond Gantt, ‘18 Chaplain
Gena Pemberton, ‘98
Immediate Past National President of the NHAA, Inc.
Henry Barnes, ‘06 Parliamentarian
Tiyale Hayes, ‘98 Alumni Giving Co-Chair
Jeffrey Silverthorne, ‘85 Alumni Giving Co-Chair
Kelli Boyer, ‘91 Student Recruitment & Retention Chairperson
Sabrina Christian, ‘83 Student Recruitment & Retention Co-Chair
Joanne Nixon, ‘98 Protocol Chair
Kairi Henry, ‘97 Technology Chair
Jaya Walker, ‘22 Young Alumni Council Co-Chair
Wallace Arnold, ‘60 Emeritus Class Representative
Joe Briggs, ‘63 Emeritus Class Representative
Kyle Hibbler, ‘92 Parent and Student Advocacy Chair
Edna B. Johnson, ‘66 Historian
Victoria Cotter, ‘10
Webmaster & Social Media Manager
Derrick Lowery, ‘85 Nominations Chair
Monica Spruill, ‘87
Marketing And Publicity CoChair
Michelle Hudgins, ‘92
Marketing And Publicity CoChair
Courtland James ‘11
President Middle Atlantic Region
Candace Wise, ‘91
President Midwest Region
Elaine Lawrence-Green, ‘89 President North Atlantic Region
Jekisha Elliot, 04 President North Carolina Region
Pamela Askew, ‘86 President Southeast Region
Karmin-Tia Greer, ‘09 President Southwest Region
Rex Flynn, ‘99 Legal Counsel
RISING STAR
A Young Alumni who exhibits influential leadership and significant societal impact, embodying the spirit of Hampton and the NHAA, Inc. with their commitment to continuous support and advancement of their alma mater's values and programs.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
This award recognizes a Hamptonian whose work has made a powerful and lasting difference in our community. Through service, leadership, and advocacy, they uplift others and embody the Hampton spirit in action.
LIFE IS SINGING AWARD
Celebrates individuals who embody the core values of Hampton and the NHAA Inc., showcasing a lifelong commitment to an education for life through their impactful endeavors Recipients exhibit iconic levels of influence, leaving a broad and significant mark within or outside the Hampton community, with tangible contributions and unwavering support to Hampton and its programs, reflecting the essence of their alma mater
LEGACY BUILDER AWARD
Honoree demonstrates exceptional impact through personal or professional endeavors, purpose-driven work, and creating pathways for others to benefit. Their contributions leave a lasting imprint on Hampton, the NHAA, Inc. and students, showcasing their remarkable legacy.
WHITNEY JOHNSON
C L A S S O F 2 0 1 5
RISING STAR HONOREE
Whitney Johnson considers herself a Southern Belle with Virginia talent and a New York hustle, who drives culture and change simultaneously through the power of media and marketing In her current role as Integrated Marketing Lead at Essence Ventures, she works tirelessly to discover ways brands can elevate the lives of Black and Brown women, families and communities Essence Ventures is the home of ESSENCE Magazine, ESSENCE Festival of Culture, AFROPUNK, Girls United, ESSENCE Studios and the Global Black Economic Forum
Upon graduating Summa Cum Laude from Hampton University with a degree in Journalism & Communications and a minor in Leadership Studies, Whitney launched her career in New York City at one of the world's top public relations agencies, where she supported corporations such as Bank of America, Chipotle, Comcast and Ford She then went on to lend her expertise as a digital marketing and PR consultant to notable brands including NBCUniversal, E! Entertainment, Cantu Beauty, Black Radiance and FCBC NYC
In 2020, Whitney chose to expand her consulting work by launching Thee StoryHouse, a creative agency that harnesses digital platforms to share transformative content with the world. Within a year of its inception, Thee StoryHouse was recognized by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter’s public charity foundation, BeyGOOD, as an Impact Fund Grant recipient
Whitney is a Fall 2012 initiate of the Gamma Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc At Hampton, she was an active member of the Greer Dawson Wilson Student Leadership Program, William R Harvey Leadership Institute, Freddye T Davy Honors College and Co-Founder of the Kingdom Minded Mime Ministry plus more. Along with her twin sister Britney, she was also awarded the President’s Cup as a graduating senior Whitney serves as an Advisory Board Member for the national non-profit Justice for Black Girls, a devoted mentor with the Black Girls in Media networking organization, and the host of her new digital showStoryHouse Convos.
She currently resides in Brooklyn, NY with her partner (Kendell), their daughter (Summer Reign) and their fur babies.
STEPHANIE L. YOUNG
C L A S S O F 2 0 0 6
COMMUNITY IMPACT HONOREE
Stephanie L Young is a sought-after thought leader at the intersection of culture, social impact and Democracy She is also a leading communications and brand strategist with a proven track record of building strong connections and developing messaging, content and creative solutions for issues involving culture, entertainment, justice and Democracy in the public and private sectors
In 2020 as the Chief Officer for Communications and Culture, Stephanie led When We All Vote’s messaging and cultural strategy that helped register over 500,000 voters the largest increase in voter participation in over 120 years She brought strong partnerships to the table and helped recruit over 400 artists, athletes, and influencers to help the campaign reach over 220 million individuals on social media
Stephanie has nearly 20 years of strategic communications and public engagement experience ranging from the Obama White House, political campaigns, House Democratic Leadership and leading television networks BET and NBC Cable Ent
Stephanie most recently served as Senior Advisor to Vice President Kamala Harris where she oversaw communications and public engagement She previously served as the Executive Director of When We All Vote, a non-partisan voting initiative launched by Michelle Obama in 2018. During her time as Executive Director, Stephanie created and implemented the inaugural Culture of Democracy Summit a four-day convening that brought together a cross section of industry leaders from tech, music, sports, entertainment, corporate and civic engagement to explore their individual and collective roles in expanding and protecting Democracy. Under her leadership, Stephanie also led a brand refresh for the organization, expanded the celebrity Co-Chair roster and implemented new advocacy and organizing programs.
Stephanie is a graduate of Hampton University who has also lived in Atlanta, Cape Town, Dallas, Jacksonville, Washington D C, and Brooklyn before moving to Los Angeles, California She currently lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband Mikael and their extraordinary baby girl, Madeline
JOAN WICKHAM
THE 'LIFE IS SINGING' HONOREE
Joan Teresa McMillan Wickham was born in Columbia, South Carolina and received her early education in South Carolina. She is a graduate of Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) earning the Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education (Voice) in 1978, a Master of Arts Degree in Secondary Education (Voice) from Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) in 1982, a Master of Arts Degree in Education Leadership from Hampton University in 2010, and a Ph D in Educational Management – Higher Education concentration from Hampton University in 2016
Dr Wickham is a licensed Administrator and retired Music Educator and taught for thirty six years She is currently the Director of Alumni Engagement and Stewardship at Hampton University Her teaching experiences cover a broad spectrum in the music industry and other subjects As an educator and music instructor, she was a Third Grade teacher in Ludwigsburg, West Germany, an exchange program teacher in Ludwigsburg, West Germany, Music Educator in Harrisonburg, Virginia and Columbia, South Carolina, choir director and music theory instructor at Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina and City Colleges of Chicago, Stuttgart, West Germany Campus
Joan currently serves as the Class Leader for the Hampton University Class of 1978 Joan has also held numerous roles on the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc. board including serving as a President of the organization She is a member of the Hampton University Booster Club, member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Through her sorority her excellence has also been honored many times over the years
Joan is a member of First Baptist Church Hampton-King Street and is currently employed by Hampton University as the Director of Alumni Engagement and Stewardship in the Office of Alumni Affairs, and the Mentor and Advisor for the Office Of Alumni Affairs NHAA, Inc Endowed Scholars. She is the daughter of the late Eugene R. and Teresa Mangum McMillan, and is the sister of Eugene M McMillan and Ronald J McMillan
LEONARD “BUTCH” POWELL
C L A S S O F 1 9 6 6
THE LEGACY BUILDER HONOREE
Leonard “Butch” Powell, a proud graduate of Hampton’s Class of 1966, exemplifies the essence of a TrueBlue Hamptonian Honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2014, Butch’s life and career have been a testament to excellence, service, and unwavering dedication to his alma mater and community
Following a distinguished career in the U S Army, Butch founded Powell Consulting Group (PCG), a premier firm specializing in Organization Development, Training, Systems Engineering, Digital Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Today, PCG continues to thrive under the leadership of his nephew, Darryl L Howell, and his son, Michael L Powell, ‘2000
Affectionately known as “Uncle Butch” by scores and “Pops” by others, he is a supportive godfather to seven accomplished women. His generosity and guidance have positively impacted countless lives, ensuring that his legacy extends well beyond his immediate circle.
Butch’s unwavering support of Hampton University is unparalleled. As a driven class leader, he has inspired exceptional levels of giving and camaraderie within the Class of ’66, which boasts the highest number of named windows in the new cafeteria including two of the 10 prominent front windows requiring $100,000 contributions Over their last three reunions, the Class of ’66 has contributed over $800,000, setting a gold standard for reunion giving
Beyond financial contributions, Butch has facilitated opportunities for bright students to attend Hampton Through a robust endowed scholarship in his name, precollege sponsorships for more than a dozen rising college freshmen, and direct financial support to students in need, Butch has opened doors to higher education for many.
Leonard “Butch” Powell is more than an alumnus; he is a living embodiment of Hampton’s values and an enduring source of inspiration His legacy of service, philanthropy, and leadership continues to uplift Hampton and all who are fortunate enough to know him.
THE GALA COMMITTEE
TIYALE HAYES CLASS OF 1998
CAROL BELL- DREW CLASSOF2007
VICTORIA COTTER CLASSOF2010
GENA PEMBERTON CLASSOF1998
MAWIYAH HUSBANDS CLASSOF1998
JOHN WILLIAMS CLASSOF2006
DR NEFERTITI CHILDREY CLASSOF1998
WAYNE GREENE CLASSOF1983
CYNTORIA WILLIAMS CLASSOF 1998
FAITH BARROW-HUNTE CLASSOF 2016
STEVEN WILLIAM CLASSOF1998
KAGAME LI-A-PING CLASSOF2016
SEYTHE MCCOY CLASSOF2005
TIFFANY TOLIVER CLASSOF2007
KAI HENRY CLASSOF1997
THE STORY BEHIND THEImpact
“From banter to transformative philanthropy, our friendship ignited a spark that now fuels the dreams of Hampton University students. Together, we're proving that even the wildest ideas can lead to profound change."
- The Founders of the Legacy Blue Gala
So, six friends walk into homecoming...no, this isn't the setup for a punchline, but rather the beginning of a remarkable journey that would leave a lasting impact on the lives of many Picture this: Seven individuals find themselves drawn together by a shared sense of camaraderie and a love for their alma mater, Hampton University.
Led by Tiyale Hayes, Executive Vice President of BET Media Group; Gena Pemberton, Chief Diversity Officer at Omnicom Health Group; Carol Bell Drew, Executive Support at BET Media Group; Dr Nefertiti Childrey, DO , Urologic Surgeon; Cyntoria Williams, Sales Executive, Mielle; Victoria Cotter, Director, Morgan Stanley & emmy award winner and global footwear executive Maureen Carter created the Legacy Blue Gala to make a lasting impact on Hampton University Students.
Understanding that college debt and rising costs are the leading cause for students dropping out of programs, the team wanted to make sure alumni and corporate sponsors could step in the gap to support Hampton University and promising students
The Legacy Blue Gala: At the Intersection of Alumni Impact and Corporate Support
And so, over the clinking of glasses and the occasional burst of laughter, the concept of the Legacy Blue Gala was born
The plan was simple yet audacious: host a gala to raise funds to award micro grants to Hampton University students, providing them with the financial support they need to continue pursuing their dreams and matriculation through Hampton. It was an idea that resonated deeply with each of them, tapping into their own experiences of navigating the challenges of higher education.
Friends on a mission to change lives and leave behind a legacy that would endure for years to come
Yvette Strong Banks
Desiray Boyd, ‘07
Rana Constant, 11
Enga Davis, ‘92
Kori Dapoh, ‘28
Nzingha Darden, ‘98
Darren Frazier, ‘11
Emily Lewis, ‘05
Briana Gibson Reeves, ‘08
B E A P A R T O F T H E I M P A C T
DONATE
For over 150 years, Hampton has been dedicated to nurturing leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
By supporting Hampton University, you're not just investing in a single institution; you're investing in the future of countless promising students who aspire to make a difference in their communities and beyond
Your donation empowers students with access to cutting-edge resources, scholarships, and lifechanging opportunities that shape their trajectory towards success.
Join us in fueling dreams, fostering talent, and building a brighter tomorrow through the gift of education at Hampton University Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a profound impact on the lives of students and the legacy of this esteemed institution. Donate today and be a catalyst for change.
LEGACY BLUEGala THE
THANK YOU