Alumni Awards & Recognition

Each year during Homecoming, the SLU African American Alumni Chapter proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of our alumni. These honors recognize those who embody leadership, service, innovation, and the enduring spirit of our community.

As we look ahead to Homecoming 2026, stay tuned for nomination details and help us spotlight esteemed alumni making powerful impacts in their careers, communities, and beyond.

In the meantime, take a moment to meet last year’s recipients and learn more about our 9 distinguished awards that continue to honor the legacy of Black excellence at Southeastern. View the blog.

Nominee Eligibility Requirements:

Be an active AAAC member, attending at least 1 chapter event and/or meeting in a calendar year.
Be an alum of Southeastern Louisiana University.
Be a citizen of good moral character and respected in the community which they reside/field they work.
Submit all required materials and the nomination form to the AAAC email by designated deadline.
Meet all the requirements of each individual award.

The Sankofa Black Excellence Award - Jeoffrey Harris Jr.
Pinnacle Trailblazer Award - Marjorie Parker
Alafia Volunteer of the Year - Demetra Dantzler

Nakia "Boog" Merril Philanthropy Award - Juanesta Phillips

Entrepreneurship Award - Angelle Harris
The Stewardship Award - Sherry Ferrill

Veteran Hometown Hero Award - Tanya Turner
Department of the Year - Career Services
Organization of the Year - SLU Black Student Union

The Sankofa Black Excellence Award

Bearing our logo’s namesake, AAAC’s premiere awardee is in a class of their own. The recipient of the Sankofa Black Excellence Award exhibits the essence of our namesake- exemplary character, outstanding achievement, and immense success in their area of expertise.

Pinnacle Trailblazer Award

The Trailblazer Award honors rising stars who are breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible. These leaders are visionaries and role models—pioneering new paths, inspiring change, and creating space for others to follow.

Alafia Volunteer of the Year

The Alafia Volunteer of the Year Award honors a dedicated member whose loyalty, reliability, and servant leadership embody the spirit of our chapter. This recognition goes to the one who consistently shows up, gives their best, and uplifts our community through service.

Nakia “Boog” Merrill Philanthropy Award

Created in honor of our late former secretary, the Nakia “Boog” Merril awardee demonstrates a giving heart, spreading goodwill through financial support for the chapter, alumni, and students.

Entrepreneurship Award

The Entrepreneurship Award honors alumni who dream boldly and build with purpose. These innovators turn vision into reality, create opportunities that uplift others, and inspire the next generation to believe in the power of their own ideas.

The Stewardship Award

The Stewardship Award honors alumni who lead with vision, accountability, and care. These leaders bring fresh ideas, inspire collaboration, and uplift those around them—both within our chapter and in their communities. They embody the spirit of service, ensuring that our collective work moves forward with purpose and impact.

Veteran Hometown Hero Award

The Veterans Award honors alumni who have served our country with courage and continue to serve our community with the same dedication. These honorees embody resilience, leadership, and sacrifice—standing as protectors, role models, and champions who strengthen both our nation and our people.

Department of the Year

The Department of the Year Award recognizes partners who have gone above and beyond in support of our chapter. These departments supports our mission —co-creating events, building meaningful collaborations, and investing in our mission to uplift and empower the community.

E-Board

This wouldn't be possible without our e-board, committee members, sponsors, and members -- Thank you for all that you do in supporting our mission to amplify the voices of our community, empower future generations, and create meaningful impact.