2026 Alumni Awards & Recognition

​Since 2024, AAAC expanded our Homecoming Mixer to recognize alumni, students, organizations, and community leaders who demonstrate leadership, service, innovation, and Black excellence at Southeastern and beyond! Nominations are now live for AAAC’s 2026-2027 Alumni Awards and Recognition pool. The portal will be open until September 30th. ​​​
 

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.

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AAAC AWARDS

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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Nakia "Boog" Merril 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.

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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.

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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.

Organization of the Year - The Organization of the Year Award recognizes organizations that have gone above and beyond in supporting our chapter and community. These organizations strengthen our mission through meaningful partnerships, collaboration, engagement, and a shared commitment to uplifting and empowering the community.