RESURGENCE: 2023 Man of the Year

RESURGENCE

“A NEW INCREASE OF ACTIVITY OR INTEREST IN A PARTICULAR SUBJECT OR IDEA THAT HAD BEEN FORGOTTEN FOR SOME TIME”

LET THIS RESURGENCE BE A REMINDER TO NEVER FORGET WHAT WE CAN DO WHEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY...

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MAROON TIGER STAFF REFLECTIONS

AWARDS

MAN OF THE YEAR

WOMAN OF THE YEAR

THE ARTISANS

THE TRENDSETTERS

THE JUGGERNAUTS

THE INTELLECTUALS

THE ADVOCATES

THE WANDERERS

THE ENTREPRENEURS

THE FUTURE - FRESHMAN

THE NEW GUARD - SOPHOMORES

THE ESTABLISHMENT - JUNIORS

THE TITANS - SENIORS

CREDITS

MT ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: NOAH McMILLAN

ANDY

HARRIS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MILES JOHNSON

MANAGING PRINT EDITOR

KOLLIN WASHINGTON

JOSHUA ELON BROWN

EXECUTIVE VISUAL CREATIVE

PHOTO EDITOR

ANDY HARRIS

Being a member of MT has been life-changing. I always knew I wanted to be a journalist, but getting to do what I love in so many different ways with like-minded individuals in the AUC gave me the motivation I needed to keep going and be more. Editor-in-Chief is not a role I take lightly, and it certainly wasn’t a smooth transition. But life is not a straight road, but it helps to have a village behind to see you through. With my parents, pastor, and my brother Miles Johnson, we were able to make it to this point.

Bringing Man of the Year back was something we talked about in the fall. We wanted to leave a legacy of excellence in The Maroon Tiger, and bringing this magazine back after 3 long years helps to do that. That’s where the idea of the title “Resurgence” was born. Miles and I wanted to revive something that was lost for 3 years, largely because of Covid-19. But here we are, with MT back on top! I came into MT under the guidance of guys like Noah McMillan, Stefan Harden, and Sizwe Chapman. I think all three of these Morehouse/MT Alumni would be proud of how far I’ve come and how far MT has come. All I hope now is the SpelHouse community loves and appreciates the hard work our team has put into this magazine and into the organization over the years!

MILES JOHNSON

The Maroon Tiger has changed my life. Coming into MT, I started off late. I didn’t really get started until my sophomore year because my freshman year was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I first started out in Tiger TV sports under the guidance of Morehouse/MT alum Noah McMillan. Noah taught me a lot of hard work and leadership. Ultimately, MT is a stepping stone for a real newsroom and that’s the level of seriousness I took with the school newspaper since I joined.

Becoming Managing Editor of print and leading this year’s Man of the Year alongside my brother, Andy Harris, has been a privilege. I’m grateful for Sizwe and Stefan for coming together to publish the Man of the Year magazine in 2020, because if it wasn’t for their hard work, my class would not have known what Man of the Year is. There is a huge responsibility on our part to bring back Man of the Year after a three year absence. It’s been a pleasure interviewing and writing stories about some of the brightest students at Morehouse and Spelman. I hope the Spelhouse community is pleased with the work we have done to bring Man of the Year back and MT will be back to having Man of the Year become an annual thing, once again.

KOLLIN WASHINGTON

Being a contributor toward Man of the Year has meant a great deal to me. This magazine is another outlet that promotes greatness within the Spelhouse culture, and being a key factor toward that promotion says a lot about the trust my peers have in me.

This year’s theme, “Resurgence” means reclaiming what was once ours. Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the greatness that Spelhouse possesses, in more ways than one, was suppressed. Though Covid affected many people beyond Morehouse and Spelman, the outbreak impacted the perception of us. Resurgence is not about sharing something new, but exposing the greatness we’ve always had.

JOSHUA ELON BROWN

I was first introduced to the Man of The Year magazine as a freshman in the midst of a pandemic. Had you told me I would get to work on MOTY, I wouldn’t have believed you. Let alone working on the return issue after a three year hiatus.

Witnessing the resurgence of the Man of The Year series has been a creatively challenging yet eye-opening process. Coming up with ways to present the stories of those who are doing incredible things across the AUC (and beyond) is just a small token of appreciation that I have for all those honored.

Congratulations and job well done to all who have contributed to this edition no matter the amount.

Salud to the next chapter!

MEN OF THE YEAR

JALEN CURRY

JAYLEN BONEY

MARK NICHOLS

MILES JOHNSON

Amir Duke did not tap into his passion for music until his junior year. Up til that point, Amir didn’t have any internships or connections to get him into the door. He started his career in the music industry by participating in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ “The Excellence Program.”

During the program he was able to connect with Diddy, French Montana, agents and actors in the entertainment industry. After the six-week course, Amir started to research about opportunities to work in music, and landed several programs and webinars. That was the start and ever since, Amir has taken off.

“What initially sparked my interest in the music industry is that it’s so diverse with creativity,” Duke said. “I’ve always been a fan of music but it took me a while on how I can work in this industry and actually get paid.”

To list some of Amir’s accolades: Project manager for the HBCU Love Tour presented by the Recording Academy and Mastercard at Morehouse College, Project Manager for the GRAMMY U conference in partnership with Nike in Miami, Florida, Coordinator for Metro Boomin Album release listening party, Coordinator for Jacquees album playback, HBCU Amazon Music x Black Music Collective Program Participant, Project Coordinator for Bryson Tiller promo tour in partnership with Hot 107.9, Project Manager for Skilla Baby x HBCU performances at Morehouse College and Project Coordinator for the Recording Academy Atlanta Chapter Success Sessions program, Project Manager for GRAMMY U mentorship program, Project Manager for Steve Lacy meet and greet with AUC students and responsible for pairing over 80 students with music business professionals. Amir gave advice for young people with the same aspirations as him to break into the music industry.

“The most important thing is to be yourself,” Duke said. “Find your passion, and it doesn’t matter how late you find it. I found my passion really late in my college career. Tap into every opportunity that comes to you. A lot of people shy away from opportunities that might not interest or benefit them because they are thinking about a short-term goal, rather than a long-term goal.”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE

MAN OF THE YEAR?

NAMED

It’s a surreal moment. Coming as a freshman, I never thought I would be in this position to be Man of the Year and to be in the industry that I’m in. Freshman year I came in as a Biology major. I thought I wanted to be a doctor. I dropped that major and then over quarantine I thought I wanted to be a consultant. It took me a while to figure out what I wanted to do, but I think this is a very surreal moment and I’m grateful that I’m able to grow into the person I am through Morehouse, and the ups and downs I’ve encountered shaped me for this moment. Going forward, I want to continue what I’m doing and then pay it forward for the next people coming up.

JAYLEN BONEY

2022-2023 Mr. Crimson & Cream, 2021-2022 Mr. Junior 2020-2021 Mr. Sophomore, 2019-2020 Mr. RHA

WHAT MADE YOU SO INVOLVED IN THE RHA PAGEANTS?

I never experienced pageants or really knew what they were before coming to Morehouse. When I got to the AUC I remember one day, one of the people in my freshman dorm (DuBois) said in our dorm that our sister dorm (HH) was looking for a king. I applied so that I could meet the girls in our sister dorm and build relationships. After I interviewed, I became Mr. HH and I was told that I would have to compete in a larger pageant for Mr. RHA. Once I got into the RHA pageant I realized that it was something I loved. It was a really cool experience because I really like to perform, whether it’s dancing or public speaking all in one. Once I won Mr. RHA I decided to keep going because I wanted to have that platform to perform and put on a show.

MILES JOHNSON

WHO INSPIRES YOU THE MOST AND WHY?

Easily, it’s my dad, Kevin Johnson, who graduated from Morehouse class in ’96, and he’s the biggest reason that I can attribute my work ethic. He came to Morehouse after being denied two times, and it took his perseverance to get him where he is today. It took him having mentors that advocated for him to even get him a spot, for him to get to Morehouse and make a difference. My dad has always pushed me to be my best and wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance. Since arriving at Morehouse in the fall of 2019, I made a commitment to myself to maximize every moment and opportunity presented to me. I hope that during my matriculation at Morehouse, I’ve been able to inspire others to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

JALEN CURRY

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

For me, life is more than just going through the motions or fulfilling duties. Each of us has a greater purpose in this world, and we are meant to make a positive impact in the lives of others. That’s why I strive to approach everything I do with a sense of importance and a focus on leaving a lasting legacy of impact. I have worked hard throughout my life to avoid being defined by titles or job descriptions. Instead, we should all strive to work for a purpose greater than ourselves, using our unique talents and skills to make a positive difference in the world. Leaving a legacy of impact means helping others see their potential and empowering them to make

-a positive difference in the world. Leaving a legacy of impact means helping others see their potential and empowering them to make positive changes in their lives. It means working to create a better world for future generations and leaving a positive mark on the planet that will continue to be felt long after I am gone.

MARK NICHOLS

HOW HAS MOREHOUSE HELPED YOU BECOME THE LEADER YOU ARE TODAY?

Morehouse has molded me into a more well-rounded leader. Many people believe that since most of our student body is African American males, we wouldn’t have much diversity to offer, which isn’t true. You learn as a leader here to empathize and comfort people who come from a completely different side of the diaspora than you. It’s a full-circle moment for me; to go from being cultivated, to the one cultivating younger students is heartwarming.Morehouse has also taught me that knowledge is power; being the primary incubator of black male doctorates, I feel I must continue the standard and hold myself to the end of the bargain in pursuing my doctorate one day. No matter what you go through, these degrees are a sense of ownership that no one can take from you; and I appreciate Morehouse to the fullest for instilling that yearning for knowledge inside of me.

ELISHA TALLEY

WHAT PUSHED YOU TO KEEP PURSUING YOUR EDUCATION AT MOREHOUSE?

Now this question is very deep to me because as everyone at Morehouse knows, I am not the person who takes no for an answer. It was everyone here at Morehouse that kept me going. After my first semester here I had to sit out because I simply could not afford it. I was working a fulltime job while being homeless for two years at Morehouse. I had to literally crash in a friend’s dorm and use his meal card to eat. I knew that completing this degree would change my life and my family’s lives forever. I just could not give up. It was also the great friendships and bonds that I was able to find here. Most students called me, “Old Head” and would want to have talks and get a viewpoint from a classmate who was 7+ years older. Morehouse has shown me things I have never seen until I got to Morehouse. I was able to study abroad twice, in Israel and Germany. The alumni have been truly great to me along with UNCF. I recently went through a traumatic experience, I was shot in an attempted robbery on Easter of this year. This has scared me emotionally because my life and everything I worked hard for could have ended. God has a plan for me!

I now know what my role is as a Black man here in America thanks to Morehouse. I love myself as a Black man. I owe that to Morehouse.

WOMEN OF THE YEAR

KANNETTE KING

MAYA BLASINGAME

GIA TEJEDA

CHANDLER NUTALL

from a small city in Vicksburg, Mississippi, had trouble finding herself when she first went to Spelman. As her freshman year was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she went back to her small town in Mississippi to and sought to see how she could reconnect with her community and make change.

Brown is co-founder/co-director of “601 for Period Equity.” Her interest in women’s health began with being an ambassador for “The Pad Project,” which is a women’s health organization in Mississippi. From there, she learned about the issue of period poverty. Period poverty is women and girls who live in poverty around the world that do not have the resources or access to the necessities they need to manage their health.

“Being in the ambassador program and being successful in it, with my younger sister, we thought to ourselves if we can make change in this program that we’re involved in, why not start something like that for our own hometown and community,” Brown said.

“I started off the backs of our family, friends and community. We posted something on social media letting people know what we wanted to do and what we started, and donations started pouring in. People sent us supplies and money and from there we got to where we are today.”

Asia, and her younger sister, Laila Brown, have helped send more than 50,000 supplies to women and girls.

I personally don’t believe that anyone should live in poverty, period. I don’t think anyone should be so poor that they can’t even afford to live. Especially for women, it’s such a taboo topic to talk about reproductive and sexual health, but, if you’re living in poverty to where when you’re on your period you can’t even afford to take care of yourself, that’s a human rights crisis.”

The larger issue Asia wants to bring awareness to is poverty and why it exists in Black communities in general. She notes the poverty she sees in the deep and rural south and believes that it’s bigger than period poverty.

“Before coming to Spelman I was very shy and introverted. Coming from a small town in the South I grew up not really feeling celebrated as a black girl. Becoming a young woman while here being at Spelman and being celebrated and uplifted by my Spelman sisters, Spelman faculty and staff, and Spelman has been amazing and built my confidence to do what I’m doing today.”

Asia Brown is a comparative studies major and she is appreciative of that department for helping build her confidence as a scholar activist to analyze different issues in the world through a black feminist framework and critically think about why things are the way they are, in terms of social justice issues we talk about.

“Being surrounded by such an amazing community at Spelman and being rooted in my studies through the comparative studies department has been instrumental in the activism that I’ve been able to be a part of. Spelman has allowed me to know that my voice does matter and that I can make a change and follow Spelman alumni that have done similar types of activism.”

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE NAMED WOMAN OF THE YEAR?

“It is an honor coming into Spelman,” Brown said. “I didn’t enjoy my first year. I had a very rough first semester. I came into Spelman very insecure and very shy. To be named by my peers as Woman of the Year, and to also be named over amazing candidates and nominees, it really means a lot and is a full circle moment for me as someone who came into Spelman not knowing where my place was to know being recognized amongst my peers.”

MAYA BLASINGAME

WHAT’S YOUR GIFT AND HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO AMPLIFY BLACK CULTURE?

I don’t know if I can say for certain what my gift is yet, but I know that part of the purpose in this life is to reach out and be a voice for all those in our community. When I was younger, my parents always said I could talk anyone’s ear off no matter how young or old they were, if they were a friend or a stranger, but I always found a way to connect with each person who came into my life. I’ve always had a love for connecting with people from all over, finding out their story and their reason for being where they were on that day. I see myself as a vessel to learn from others I’ve met and to then teach those who will come after me. There’s so many people who I’ve met either in passing or who have become like family to me who have made a deep impact on who I am and shaping who I am. For me, it’s so important to show how Black culture and Blackness is not a monolith, Black people show up in every corner in every way. Black people are creatives, scientists, changemakers, and our voices have such a profound necessity in our world. As I grow and expand, I want to ensure that I bring Black culture and voices with me everywhere that I go and amplify them. I’m not sure exactly how this gift plays out but I see myself in my career and in my future using my own voice to propel the voices within the Black community.

KANNETTE KING

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

My hometown is a small city in Southeast Georgia where racism is endemic. Because of the assertive way I defended and encouraged the Movement for Black Lives as a child, I endured persistent isolation from others my age. However, this gave me the chance to develop and draw from the long-standing custom of forging bonds of community and seeking out the guidance of elders. In the height of the Black Lives Matter protests, I was given the opportunity to intern with Attorney Francys Johnson as the Ruby Hurley Intern. It was here where I was adopted into the Just Georgia Coalition, and through this organization I was introduced to the family and cases of: Marc Wilson, Julian Lewis, Kendrick Johnson, Ahmaud Arbery, and Oscar Cain. Being loved and supported by a group of people dedicated to promoting Black voices and sharing their commitment for activism affirmed that I am not in this struggle alone and that there are people who are dedicated to being the heroes in our own stories.

CHANDLER NUTALL

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN BALANCE AS A STUDENT?

To be honest, it’s been very hard. One of the primary ways I’ve maintained balance is remembering that I’m a student first. I came to Spelman to be a student, not to be SGA President. Although I loved being SGA President, that’s not why I chose Spelman. I chose Spelman to get my degree. Throughout my collegiate experience, my academics have been prioritized as number one. I think that has allowed me to perform so well, even in the midst of a pandemic, just by prioritizing what it means to be a student, intellectual and thinker. I’ve had to understand what it means to set boundaries, what it means to say no to people who are asking things of my time, and what it means to take breaks and set time aside in my schedule for myself because people will take your time if you don’t stop them. I’ve had to learn that it’s my responsibility to make sure I’m very cautious and intentional of where I put my time and energy.

GIA TEJEDA

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START “ALL THINGS COLLEGE”?

It was always my dream to go to college, but I did not see a blueprint as to how to go about it. As I was learning about the process, I encouraged other people to learn with me. As a junior in high school, I created my A.T.C dream board; it was a visual map of all the schools I wanted to apply to and the requirements, costs, and locations. When I posted it on social media, other teachers and students found out about it and created it on their own. Teachers then invited me to speak to their students and A.T.C. took off.

TAHAJ TANKSLEY-BARRETT

ARTISAN OF THE YEAR ’23

ARTISANS

HASANI COMER

EMMANUEL AGORO

LILA JAI

NOAH HARRISON

JUSTIN UPSHAW

As an AUC fashion icon, trendsetter, and pioneer, Tahaj Tanksley-Barrett has helped to revolutionize and revitalize fashion within the AUC. When he first came to Morehouse, the environment was challenging for him. His passion was fashion and design, but Morehouse had little to no programs that suited his specific interests. Tahaj did not let this prevent him from pursuing his dream. He started to build his network within the AUC, picked up a fashion minor at Spelman, and put himself in position to gain major internships. Through his hard work, he was able to get an internship with Ralph Lauren, and this would help his fashion career to take off. In addition to working with Ralph Lauren, Tahaj has also worked with the Fashion Scholarship Fund, which is backed by Virgil Ablo’s foundation. During his time with the program, he was the first and only Morehouse man to receive the scholarship. He stated that being apart of the fellowship program is one of his greatest accomplishments.

“I’m breaking generational curses. As a first generation college student, I want my little siblings to know that they can be successful.”

“Because I put in the work, I can walk into rooms knowing that I’m not an imposter.”

Tahaj knew that he would be successful in fashion. He had a one track mind when it comes to his work. He has never wavered in his pursuit, and time has only affirmed his desires for design.

“I’ve always been passionate about fashion design. From early on, I felt like fashion and design was always a part of my destiny.”

His next step is to continue to build on his current achievements. His brand– Augustyn Akari– is dropping a fall campaign in August. This campaign will be the first installment in a tour that will visit: Atlanta (August), New York (spring), and California (summer of next year). This will be the first time people will see the brand in a new light.

Tahaj’s hard work has made prosperity both a well deserved reward, but also a high standard for himself.

EMMANUEL AGORO

HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT EXPANDING YOUR CREATIVE PROJECTS?

Agoro works with a variety of individuals within the AUC. He finds talent amongst his peers and gives them a platform to be successful. Additionally, he spends a lot of time using the vast network that Morehouse provides. He seeks any opportunity to extend an olive branch, for every new relationship he makes could lead to immense success for his businesses, which, in turn, benefit his creative projects. “I feel as if Morehouse puts me in the right position to expand all of my projects. The vast connections in the AUC and Atlanta create a base on which I continue to build,” said Agoro.

HASANI COMER

HOW HAS MOREHOUSE IMPACTED YOUR GROWTH AS AN ARTIST?

Comer came into Morehouse already understanding his purpose. He knew what he wanted to be. His passion for entertainment and showmanship provided him with the drive to pursue these fields; however, when he first came to Morehouse he had no idea how he was going to begin this pursuit. “My confidence has grown. It’s scary putting yourself out there for judgment, but Morehouse has taught me to just do it...If I didn’t come to Morehouse, I probably would’ve never started art again.”

NOAH HARRISON

WHO ARE YOU? WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

The best producer coming out of Philadelphia to say the least. All types of music for all people was something I found myself exposed to, since a young age. Growing up in a household with parents whose music palates were deep, the sounds of many different artists rang around me all the time. R&B, soul, jazz and hip hop were the genres I grew up on. Then through school and professional training with instruments and singing, I started to love others like classical, traditional, folk, and pop music. Starting my

- freshman year, I had every intention of being a dentist. Which in the end, did not work. I found out the hard way that medicine was something I genuinely was not passionate about. I started to do a lot of soul searching, self evaluation, and assessment of my surroundings/environment during that time. Which pushed me in the direction of gaining a clearer vision of what I wanted my life to look like and how I would execute. When the pandemic hit, I used those countless hours to hone in on skills using professional music industry software where I taught myself to make beats and mix/master music. This ultimately led me to where I am now at 21 years old. Having multiple placements with notable artists, being a growing leader of a new wave, a vast network, and an unstoppable plan that will change the trajectory of music production and music business for generations. I am ready and prepared for what the future unfolds.

LILA JAI

HOW DO YOU USE YOUR MUSIC TO AMPLIFY BLACK CULTURE AND TO HELP BLACK PEOPLE, PARTICULARLY BLACK WOMEN AS YOU’VE GROWN?

I believe in giving people what they deserve and artist equity. That has led me toward taking music business classes so that I can understand my artistry and understand publishing all the financials that go into even just releasing a song. Then there’s the back end of tracking, such as streams. I’ve also just had the experience this year of being in spaces where I had to think more about, OK, this is real, and if I don’t do this right, or if I don’t know, this information is going to affect me for a long time. It drove me to want to educate myself.  I want to give artist development to black people, but specifically black women.

JUSTIN UPSHAW

HOW DO YOU DEVIATE FROM THE STATUS QUO?

I’ve only had one internship through Morehouse. I worked with CW TV as a marketing intern. I got to work with a tv show that was under development, it’s out now. The name was Walker: Independence. Working with professional editors and seeing how they edit material. Getting opportunities to show them my work, and getting feedback from them, which was great. It was good to see the level of work I needed to get to the point where my work could potentially go on air.

TRENDSETTERS

DAVID “DAVE” FLOWERS

TIMOTHY DAVIS

CHASE BRATHWAITE

BROOKLYNN MULLINS

EJIOFO “EJI” MBANEFO

“Search real hard to find you, and when you find you, go as hard as you can for whatever is you. You owe it to yourself to give 120 percent. You do not want to live a life full of regret.”

Ever since a young kid David “Dave” Flowers had a creative fire. Growing up in the windy city of Chicago, Flowers had many inspirations, the two biggest being his cousin Chris and his mother. Chris introduced Dave to the world of fashion as Dave watched as a youngster his older cousin making his senior class T-shirts for graduation. This inspired Dave to pursue his own creative endeavors as he grew up dabbling in the art. Dave’s mother was also his first ever example of a trendsetter, as he would marvel at her ability to always voice her opinion and exude confidence in everything that she did. Her assertiveness taught him to stay true to himself no matter the environment.

Growing up in an urban community in Chicago is not easy “to get away from the violence whether that be directly or indirectly” Flowers said. Not only was Chicago’s violence intense, the surrounding culture was as well. Flowers was fortunate to be able to see two different sides of Chicago from his experiences living in the hood and going to private school. Seeing two different lifestyle experiences as well as fashion styles gave Flower’s the ability to pick and choose his fashion sense and even identity. Although Chicago was overwhelming at times, Flowers appreciates the culture his city has given him.

“I used to feel like Chicago locked me up because I only saw street fashion. I only saw what Chief Keef and Lil Durk were wearing but now I can say Chicago has made me unapologetically me in spaces I probably wouldn’t have felt comfortable in. Interning at Ralph Lauren there wasn’t a day where I didn’t dress like me, but I wasn’t scared, I didn’t care what room I was in because at the end of the day nothing material defines who you are.”

Working for Ralph Lauren has been a dream coming for Flowers as he is able to carry out his purpose and passion with one of his favorite brands. In the world of fashion being a black man can be hard as many people try to tell you what you can and can’t do. Flowers continues to stay resilient in those rooms and stand on his sentiments even if he is the only one in the room.

“I am not gonna come in and just be another black face and just get up and work. I am going to push the boundaries and whatever happens after that I can live with it because I know I’m living out my purpose and passion. At the end of the day life goes on after you. You can’t bring your car with 100 bands with you, it’s your name that remains.”

Flowers will be working full time with Ralph Lauren in the summer. Along with his work with Ralph Lauren he has started his own brand called “DAVE” which he started during his sophomore year of college. He is also known for his curation of fashion shows. He is inspired currently by the work of Chicago natives Cole Benett and G Herbo, and hopes to one day give back to the Chicago community. As long as there are kids who can look up to him and believe they can reach the same heights fulfills Dave and the work that he does.

CHASE BRATHWAITE

WHAT HAS GOTTEN YOU WHERE YOU ARE TODAY?

Not being afraid to pursue all of my passions (medicine and filmmaking) and finding a way to bridge those passions without losing sight of my mission. Just finding balance. That is the theme of my life currently. I try to make sure I don’t get lost in my own head from overthinking… I am my own biggest critic. As a super passionate person, you can overwork yourself in your head, so it takes mental discipline and consistently showing up for yourself. I am proud of learning to be present in the moment, accepting the season of life that I am in, and acknowledging myself with my own flowers.

TIMOTHY DAVIS

WHAT IS A CHALLENGE WITH ALWAYS BEING YOURSELF? HOW DO YOU PUSH THROUGH THESE CHALLENGES?

I feel like the challenges, especially in the AUC, are staying true to yourself. A lot of the time people say this is popping, so let me go do this, or the girls like this so let me do this. I feel like it’s hard for people to just be them. That’s especially with social media, where everybody’s flexing and flossing when it doesn’t even take all that. Just be you. Another challenge I would say is guidance. I feel like I had to do a lot of this alone, especially with my dad passing two years ago. With my mom and my dad gone, I feel like I am out here with no guidance, but I just keep God in my life. I pray just to make sure I keep elevating myself and valuing every day. My friends and I really hold each other accountable. We’re with each other often and we are very vulnerable with each other. I know if I tell them anything it’s not going to leave my circle. So somedays, if I haven’t seen or spoken to my friends in a while, they call me. Or if they see me and ask if I am good and if I am not, I trust them enough to tell them. Even if it is something we do not want to talk about over the phone, we just tell each other pull up and talk it out.

EJIOFO “EJI” MBANEFO

Eji’s creativity is again just a product of his environment: being from Brooklyn he says “In Brooklyn I see something new everyday. It is a fast-paced environment and it helps me be creative. Everyone in New York is trying to express themselves after all there is a multitude of cultures backing you. Brooklyn is my backbone!

Eji not only loves Brooklyn for the creative perspective it has given him but feels an obligation to help change the community. One of the many legacies he wants to leave to the kids of Brooklyn is making them financially free. He wants to teach black and brown youth how to become entrepreneurs and financial freedom.

Eji is a man who is multifaceted and has many different ambitions. What sets him apart from others is his willingness and comfortability to consistently be himself at all times. His friends back in freshman year said “I was a quiet person; they thought I was mute.” Over time Eji began to express and share his gifts with the world even though it was scary at first.

BROOKLYNN MULLINS

WHO ARE YOU? WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Ever since I was a little girl, I was never interested in things that would be considered the regular life route. I always knew that I was creative from the day I was able to pick up an old VCR camera, and I know that’s what led me to start my content creation journey. I love sharing little pieces of my life with people for entertainment; I never knew how much people would enjoy it. Since I’ve started this journey, so many young girls and women come up to me saying how much they appreciate my lifestyle content and how it makes them view Spelman in a beautiful light.

JUGGERNAUTS

RODNEY GROSS

DAVID COLEMAN II

KALIN BENNETT

OLIVIA ROBINSON

CHUKWUEBUKA NWAFOR

DANTEZ SIMPSON

RODNEY GROSS

There is more to Baltimore City than what the media portrays. There’s more to Baltimore than poverty, crime, and negativity. There’s a promise, talent, unique stories, winners, advocates, and more. Many people, especially black men, don’t leave Baltimore. However, Rodney Gross challenges that narrative. Rodney Gross is a graduating senior Kinesiology major from Baltimore, Maryland. Rodney has always been a student-athlete. In high school, Rodney played golf and basketball and ran track. His love for track, and He began his track career during his senior year of high school. At a track meet, he received an offer from Morehouse College.

Outside of being a student-athlete, Rodney is a servant leader in his community. Rodney’s leadership started in high school when he became the book club president. His leadership roles traveled to Morehouse College, where he served in multiple leadership positions. He currently serves as captain for the Morehouse College track and field team, the HopMaster, and Director of Educational Programs for the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He also served as the Morehouse College Residence Hall Association Vice President for the 2022-2023 academic school year.

Since beginning his freshman year, Rodney has dedicated himself to the Morehouse College Track and Field Team. Being a part of the team allowed him to grow as an athlete, student, and a better man. He didn’t just gain teammates, but he also gained brothers. Gross cherishes the bonds he has made since his freshman year. He has always been a born leader. Throughout his athletic career, he was met with adversities, but that didn’t stop him. It created a drive for him to keep going and to fulfill his dream.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT BEING TWO-TIME CHAMPION?

“I feel good. Coming to Morehouse, I was mainly a distance thrower. I had my struggles along the way, especially last season and the beginning of this season. I never placed 1st. I was always beaten by a few centimeters and ended up 2nd, 3rd, or 4th. I knew that I had to put in some real work to earn another gold medal. I am a senior, so I’m going out on top. It feels good to know your hard work is finally paying off.” He entered Morehouse with two medals and is now leaving with four more. Rodney is now a 2x SIAC champion. He recently won 1st place in this year’s SIAC championship conference.

KALIN BENNETT

WHAT IS YOUR STORY, WHO ARE YOU?

I’m a kid from Little Rock, Arkansas, who was said to never be able to speak, started speaking at 7 years old, didn’t walk until 4 years old. I was somebody who was said to never be able to live my life because of autism, and because I am black, to go along with being on the spectrum. I play basketball. It has been able to open my mind and open so many doors for me. I’ve been on every network you can think of, I’m in the basketball Hall of Fame, I’m in different museums. But, I am just… Kalin.

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT, WHY ARE YOU IMPORTANT?

For me, I feel like what I’m doing is important because nobody else wants to do it. I’ve always been a bold person, I’m not afraid to voice my opinion when something needs to be said. I stick my chest out and fight through it. There are kids and adults out here afraid to say that they’re going through something. It’s not just autism, it’s a mental health issue as well. A lot of people don’t know there are a lot of people here at Morehouse who are on the Autism spectrum. My addressing that and my talking about that will hopefully forge a path for students and let them know, ‘it’s OK to be yourself’.

WHAT IS ONE WORD THAT DESCRIBES YOU?

Warrior. Because I’m not supposed to be here. I was told I wasn’t supposed to play basketball. I grew up playing with NBA players. I played at the highest level. But not just basketball, I’m making an impact in the community. Even now though, I’m facing odds. Don’t get me wrong I love this journey, but sometimes there are days I want to quit. Some days i think it’s not worth it, but I look back and think if I quit now, all of this wouldn’t make any sense. I came too far.

DAVID COLEMAN II

HOW HAS BASEBALL CHANGED YOUR LIFE?

I have been playing this game ever since I was 2 years old. The glove has been on my hand for over 18 years and my life will forever be different because of that. I’m just a grown man playing a child’s game. As an athlete, I’m always looking to improve every day. Being better at every little thing possible. Even at my age, I’m still evolving in the game. Being an athlete is all about keeping discipline. No matter what obstacles stand in your way, always stay disciplined.

CHUKWUEBUKA NWAFOR

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY PLAYING BASKETBALL HAS DONE FOR YOU? OUTSIDE OF BASKETBALL, WHERE DO YOUR PASSIONS LIE?

The basketball program has kept me disciplined. Coach Whittler has given me advice and been a role model in my life. He has taught me to be disciplined and to face adversity. To be able to pick myself up when I’m done. My goal is to change the world. I want to do community development in Africa and more specifically, help unite the culture of African Americans and African culture.

OLIVIA ROBINSON

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO START JAGUARS LACROSSE?

I started Jaguars Lacrosse to create a space for students to compete and have fun, share their love of lacrosse, and be a part of a team again. I knew when I chose to attend Spelman, I would have to give up playing the sport I loved and give up the hopes of learning a new sport in college at the intramural level because there was simply nothing offered at the school. When I began college, I’d hoped working out at the gym would be enough to satisfy how much I missed playing. After a semester, I realized it wasn’t. I knew other students at Spelman who played lacrosse in high school and were disappointed they couldn’t continue playing, even at the intramural level. In January 2022, my second semester at Spelman, I began organizing students who played and decided to apply to become a Registered Student Organization (RSO). Although we were denied the opportunity to become an official organization at the school, we persisted and have been competing with the Atlanta Lacrosse League - recently finishing our second season.

DANTEZ SIMPSON

BEING ONE OF THE SENIOR LEADERS ON THE FOOTBALL TEAM, WHAT WAS YOUR MINDSET HEADING INTO THE SEASON AND WHAT WAS ONE THING YOU LEARNED?

I was very hungry coming into the season with a chip on my shoulder. Feel like I had something to prove solely because I suffered an injury during my junior year versus West Georgia. It sidelined me for the rest of the season and I kind of felt like a lot of people forgot about my impact, about my talent. Many people forgot about my overall aura of being around the team. I wasn’t around the team as much so coming back, I wanted to make that a point of emphasis for people to feel me. Every time I was out there, I wanted people to recognize me like, ‘You can’t miss 27.’ But throughout the season, I feel like I represented myself well individually. One thing I learned while navigating, you know, the Morehouse football program is that nothing comes easy. You’re going to have to fight for the smallest thing you can imagine. But I feel like those are transferable skills that are ultimately going to help me in my professional and personal life down the line. That is something I’ll give credit to the Morehouse football program for.

INTELLECTUALS

CORNELL HARRIS

AMAIA CALHOUN

ELIJAH TRUITT

GEORGE PRATT

John Curry is a graduating senior and Philosophy, Religion, and Chinese triple major who has poured himself into various communities at Morehouse. He is the captain of the Morehouse College debate team and a member of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel Assistance Program. The Nashville native is also a former member of the Morehouse track and field program and former Vice president of Collegiate 100.

Lastly, Curry is a member of five Sigma Tau– Philosophy Fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc by way of the Psi Chapter.

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT?

What that means to me is doing absolutely everything that I can to achieve a goal. If I have a goal to attain knowledge, perhaps that means I will study philosophy or religion and answer the questions that I have and figure out how I can become the best academic that I can. As it concerns my collegiate experience, I seek to become the best student I can be and the best person I can be. Having strong academics, getting involved in service, are steps to realizing that goal. When I leave Morehouse, I want to have no regrets on everything that I did. I would definitely say my biggest gift that I’ve been given is my vision. I try to attain the best in my desire to push that vision to fruition by any means necessary.

WHAT IS YOUR VISION AFTER YOU LEAVE MOREHOUSE?

The vision that I want to see for Morehouse is a shift to studying. We need more things like the humanities and social sciences. I think there’s been a very, very adamant and prominent push to study business, which is all well and good; however I think that because of that you have an overabundance of students who are just studying business. Maybe perhaps to figure out how to start a business,or go to business school, or just to become people who are rich in a capitalist world, which is fine, but at the end of the day Morehouse was founded on certain ideals and values. These are ideas and values that are in the humanities and social sciences that have gotten us this far through the Civil Rights Movement and have kept the Black community grounded, and they will continue to do so. Unfortunately, there are not many people studying the humanities because they don’t pay well. The strong academics who are in these fields are often alone, and I think that there should be a push to study what it means to be human, what it means to be black within America to figure out how we can ameliorate the black condition as best we can to study different parts of ourselves. When we’re talking about the humanities and the social sciences, we are talking about things that are innate to being human, and I feel as though these are very, very integral and vital.

AMAIA CALHOUN

WHAT DOES BEING NOMINATED AS AN INTELLECTUAL MEAN TO YOU?

Intellectuals are known for their critical thinking skills, their passion for learning, and their ability to analyze and synthesize complex information. They are often experts in their field and are respected for their knowledge and insights. Intellectuals use their curiosity and other talents to contribute to society in meaningful ways. These are all qualities and aspirations that I have further developed during my time at Spelman. It brings me great joy that I have impacted someone in such a way for them to believe I possess these skills and that I am capable of accomplishing these achievements in my future. This nomination motivates me to keep it up.

CORNELL HARRIS

WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR MOREHOUSE?

My challenge to Morehouse as an institution is to develop students capable of thinking for themselves and understanding the complexities of their actions. My challenge to the future and current students of Morehouse is to aim for the stars and dream to fight for a cause bigger than yourself. My vision for Morehouse is to become an environment that will provide opportunities to all students.

GEORGE PRATT

WHAT IS YOUR MOREHOUSE STORY?

Morehouse provided an awakening experience, an enlightening experience that spurred and prompted both spiritual and intellectual growth and development. Mother Morehouse presents her sons with a wonderful opportunity to engage in an internal confrontation, to deprogram the socialization one has been beginning in grade school. You engage in internal interrogation and personal examination, where you see reality as it truly is. You develop the ability to combat notions of black exceptionalism or tokenism. Morehouse helped me decolonize my mind and understand my existence within the current socio political landscape. My Morehouse story has been one of great transformation, and it has allowed me to understand that the road to wisdom and knowledge is certainly one less traveled, but it is the most powerful path, a path that leads one to their destined purpose.

ELIJAH TRUITT

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT?

I consider my gift to be teaching others. I began teaching so that I could understand things better– like my own code. However, I’ve found that people aren’t always happy with how I’m able to make things understandable for them. I’ve learned how to lead them to solutions rather than just giving it to them right away. This has led to multiple opportunities where I’ve been a tutor with Google’s tech equity collective. Here I worked with around 100 adults looking for transitions in tech. I tutored them in web development. Now, I’m finishing up being a Google Tech Exchange. This is another program where students from minority institutions will take classes taught by Google software engineers.

ADVOCATES

TREY CAUSEY

CALVIN BELL

MEKHI PERRIN

LAUREN NICKS

Daxton Pettus is a sophomore Philosophy major from Decatur, Georgia. He told The Maroon Tiger that he came to Morehouse to pursue a legal career and become a part of the Morehouse community. By attending Morehouse, he follows the footsteps of his father and uncles that attended this institution.

IN FEBRUARY, YOU AND OTHER ORGANIZERS SPOKE OUT AT CROWN FORUM AGAINST COP CITY. WHY?

The college shared a statement via an Instagram post regarding the death of Tyre Nichols in Memphis, Tennessee, signed by representatives of our college. It also addressed the proposed construction of the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, known as Cop City. Many students believed that the statement was tone deaf, especially coming from an Historically Black College. A group of students got together because we wanted to address the issue and to publicly show that we do not support systems that oppress us.

I felt the need to speak out because I am getting an education to be an advocate for others. It would be contradictory for me as a student pursuing a career to not speak out when the institution that I attend is not speaking out against the oppression of people. I believe that the goal of getting a college degree should not be about money or managing people. The goal should be to get a better understanding of the world, yourself, and what you want to do.

IF YOU HAD ALL THE POWER, WHAT THREE ISSUES WOULD YOU ADDRESS?

If I had all the power, I would get rid of all weapons, address climate change, and poverty. Our country has a big issue with guns right now. Sadly, the reality is that gun violence disproportionately affects people of color. Climate change is one of the biggest problems affecting the United States and the world. Lastly, there is not enough attention given to people in underserved communities dealing with food insecurity, housing access, and other issues.

WHAT IS YOUR CALL TO ACTION TO THE STUDENT BODY?

My call to action for the student body is to be creative! I think that making a change can be knowing what you do well and making the best out of that. For us, doors have been opened so that we can be who we aspire to be. No matter if you are making music, painting, becoming a lawyer, or studying medicine, you should do the best you can!

CALVIN BELL

IF YOU HAD ALL THE POWER, WHAT THREE ISSUES WOULD YOU ADDRESS?

The first is the criminal justice system. My father was impacted by the criminal justice system and passed away while incarcerated. This is something that takes up a lot of space within my research and the work that I currently do. Another issue that I care about is education policy. I believe it is important for Black communities to be educated. This also includes having equal resources and opportunities to thrive. Lastly, I would strengthen our communities. I would address families being displaced due to economic hardships. I would ensure that families have the resources that they need and no longer put politics before people.

TREY CAUSEY

WHAT IS YOUR CALL TO ACTION FOR STUDENTS IN THE ATLANTA UNIVERSITY CENTER?

My call to action would be to start speaking truth to power! When we speak about societal change, this must involve speaking the truth. What we cannot do is be afraid to create that better black world. We must focus on living consequential lives. We must not live life focused on material realities. If I needed to speak to the crowd, I would say do not just focus on your material reality, but focus on our community. We must focus on emphasizing our communities and not ourselves. We must remember that we all have a burden that comes from being a student in the Atlanta University Center. We have intellectual and activist history on this campus. We need to take a hammer and swing at the walls of history.

LAUREN NICKS

WHAT’S YOUR GIFT AND HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO AMPLIFY BLACK CULTURE?

My gift is my open-mindedness and flexibility. I am able to take into consideration all concerns and feedback to help guide my next steps in advocating for students on our campus. I successfully did this when planning events for neurodivergent students on campus and composing the letter to Dr. Helene Gayle on “Cop City.”

MEKHI PERRIN

WHAT IS YOUR FOCUS GOING INTO YOUR NEW POSITION AS SGA PRESIDENT?

Being a servant leader is not just a title that I wear, it is something I embody. As your 92nd SGA President, I will work to build on all that I have done and continue establishing relationships that will allow us to effectively grow as a community. In essence, I want to be a sounding board for the student body-advocating on your behalf to get things done. I will be a leader who will see change through and speak up when students feel unseen by the administration. It is my duty to prepare our house for much needed progressive change and greatness! I will work for the student body to ensure we are getting all we’re promised, community service is increased, opportunities are highlighted, engagement is increased, and much more.

MICHAEL HENRY WANDERER OF THE YEAR ’23

WANDERERS

MARKELL KELLEY

AUZZY BYRDSELL WILL LATHAN

DESTINEE WHITAKER

WHAT IS YOUR STORY, WHO ARE YOU?

Working hard for every opportunity I have had has afforded me a spirit of grit, and raw determination. I am fatherless, I am flawed, I am incomplete, I am resilient, I am humble and grounded, I am Michael Henry. A pioneer who is building and blazing trails everyday.

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT, WHY ARE YOU IMPORTANT?

Ministry is my gift. At about 3 years old I started ministering to others and that was a turning point in my life. I have been persistent in my ministry and service endeavors ever since. I have matured and evolved and I have a strong desire to give back to both my local community and the greater global community. I make use of my time by guiding others toward their goals one step at a time… I want to leave this world knowing that I made a difference in the lives of hundreds of people just like me. I am significant because no matter what I am always prepared to lend a hand to anyone in need.

WHAT IS ONE WORD THAT DESCRIBES YOU?

Tenacious. I am known to not give up. Through everything, through all the obstacles that I have faced in life, through all the challenges, I have just been a high achiever. I have been one to continue to run the race until the very end.

AUZZY BYRDSELL

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT, HOW DO YOU USE IT, WHY ARE YOU IMPORTANT?

My gift is my versatility. My life has been centered around being adaptable to any and every environment, situation, or task I’ve ever been placed in. I’ve worked in sports coaching, project/event management, finance, risk mitigation and finally journalism. These perspectives have granted me the ability to write with advocacy and integrity in sports, news, art, culture and more in my career as an Internationally published journalist.

MARKELL KELLEY

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS/GOALS?

I will attend Johns Hopkins University – Italy to earn a Masters of Arts in International Relations after receiving my B.A. in International Studies from Morehouse. I’ll spend a year in India as a Fulbright researcher researching death traditions and the effects of social, economic, and religious changes before enrolling at Johns Hopkins. In the end, I’ll join the U.S. Foreign Service and ideally expand the exchange possibilities available to low-income and black students.

WILL LATHAN

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN ONE WORD?

If I could describe myself at one word, I’d say human. I come from a family of high achievers and I am the first born and I find myself sometimes feeling this pressure that I need to do this, do that, to achieve something now, or I’m missing out or I need to work harder and I realize that I have to remember that I’m human and I need to be in the present and I’m on my own path. I know that I’m going to always strive for perfection but I also know that I will never reach it. Although I hope to get really close.

DESTINEE WHITAKER

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO TRAVEL?

Honestly, I was scared to travel. Tthe first place I went to outside of the U.S. was Egypt. Once I went there I knew that I was able to travel outside of the country on my own. In connection to what I want to do in the future with my non-profit organization, I started it in high school. It’s geared towards aiding the water crisis. If I’m doing that on a global scale, I will have to travel to other countries. So my goal was to visit as many places as possible. Liberia was the first place my non-profit serviced. I had the opportunity to go this past December. It was amazing to see the country my non-profit helped first hand.

RYAN GRIMMETT

SUMMER CLEMONS

MIKAYLA ROSS

KRIS KERR

FIRST FLOOR PRODUCTIONS

CHRIS DOOMES, AMANI MURPH, MILES LOUISON, SEKAI HARRIS, CHASTIN BRATHWAITE, ELLIOT FREEMAN, ALENDE ABUEDE, GYASI BOWENS, KYLEN DENT, OLAMIDE FAGBAMIY, JALEN PARHAM

MOTTO:

“The Foundation of Creativity”

WHAT IS “FIRST FLOOR PRODUCTIONS”?

Our mission is to cultivate ideas based on the culture and communities we are surrounded by. In that, we look to express our forms of creativity by using sources of visual media, fashion and the teamwork of dope minds.

WHAT DOES BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR MEAN TO “FFP”?

Being an entrepreneur means being willing to fail a thousand times to create a business or idea that defines your work ethic and affects the community around you. It means that you are driven, dedicated, and strong. Most of all, being an entrepreneur means that you feel as though you ideas can make a lasting impact on the world

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING IN THE AUC?

We partner with organizations and individuals in the AUC because we believe that to positively affect the world we must first start with the people we see everyday. If we can work together with our peers successfully, we can collaborate with companies around the world, which is the eventual goal.

WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

SUMMER CLEMONS

WHAT DOES BEING A BLACK FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR MEAN TO YOU?

Being courageous is essential for black entrepreneurs. As a business owner, I cannot let the challenge at hand, or my lack of experience deter me. Instead, I need to surround myself with individuals that motivate, encourage, and challenge me to accomplish the necessary tasks. I kind of fell into this lifestyle of being an entrepreneur, but I was not afraid to take the risk, and through this experience I have found many additional talents, including being creative, brave, and likable. I had the misconception that being an entrepreneur meant “faking it until I made it,” but now I understand that it actually means “doing, doing, doing” until something is produced. I must persevere, have faith in my abilities, and have the courage to seek assistance when necessary. It is an exhausting journey, but all the while incredibly exciting and life changing.

RYAN GRIMMETT

WHAT HAS YOUR MOREHOUSE EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE?

I’ve had some ups and downs throughout the semester but it’s definitely been a learning experience. I have some excellent teachers and learned a lot in the classroom, but I enjoy the incidents outside the classroom more. I’ve been forced to live and learn some real grown-up lessons. I lived with my mom growing up, and she took care of things for me. Now that I’ve been living on my own, I’ve had to figure some stuff out for myself, but the experience has been nothing short of extraordinary. Morehouse molds you into a man by how it teaches young men to represent themselves. It’s a great thing to witness. When I think of Morehouse, Spelman and Clark students, I think of the epitome of the black community. I realize these students are the black men and women who will change the world. We are the future of this country. When I think of it, being in this space is a blessing. I know a large percentage of the students on campus just from cuting hair. The relationships I’ve built have been the best part of my Morehouse experience. I will have connections and relationships with the people I’ve met for the rest of my life.

KRIS KERR

WHO ARE YOU? WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

I’m from Denver, Colorado and have a love for building relationships and creating memorable experiences. I believe it’s important we take advantage of opportunities provided to us in the AUC, while at the same time understanding life beyond this community and preparing for the real world. I’ve always had a passion for business which allowed me to create a photography company called 5280Visuals. The number signifies how many feet are in a mile and is symbolic of the mile high city I call home. My business specializes in headshots, weddings, and automotive photography. Connecting with special people and exotic cars are where I find the most joy.

MIKAYLA ROSS

WHAT MADE YOU START “MIKMOTIONS”?

Mikmotions is my video production company where motion is anywhere and creativity is limitless. I began my videography journey when I decided I was going to document my sorority Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated Journey to the Homecoming step show. Once I completed the video it blew up and got over 11K views. I realized I had a passion for capturing once in a lifetime moments and decided to pursue the feeling seriously. I started my company on February 7th 2023 and since then I have partnered with Spelman College, Morehouse College , Lyte House, Achieve Moore, Delta Sigma

Theta Sorority Inc, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc, HOPE Spelman, NAACP, CASA, Maroon Tiger, AUC VYBZ and Steppin In Stilettos. I hope to grow my platform even more over the next year MIKMOTIONS is not only a videography company. It is a brand.

KAYLI JOY COOPER

FUTURIST (FRESHMAN) OF THE YEAR ’23

FUTURE

JAYSON FAULKNER

NORMAN THOMAS III

MARCELLIS MCQUEEN

LENNOX LEE

JALIL QUICK

TAYLOR MILLS

WHAT IS YOUR NAME AND WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

My name is Kayli Joy Cooper. A freshman film major from Los Angeles, California. Back in the height of Covid, I started a nonprofit organization called Girl Well. I started Girl Well because I wanted to give back to the LA community. Self-care is necessary for all and was not accessible during covid. So, I began Girl Well to fix that issue and have given thousands of unsheltered teenage girls, across eight states and Bangladesh, self-care kits that include woman-based and black-owned products. I hope to continue Girl Well and help many teenage girls on their self-care journey.

WHAT MAKES YOU THE WOMAN THAT IS THE PERFECT PERSON FOR GIRL WELL?

I am a compassionate leader. I am always looking out for others because I know I want people to look out for me. I am also an extrovert, which allows me to get my name out there without feeling anxious or shy. At a young age, I understood how to get to know people, which allows me to make more connections with big companies like Dove, Better Help, Nars, and more.

HOW DO YOU USE YOUR GIFT TO AMPLIFY THE BLACK COMMUNITY?

I’m using the resources I have to help black girls all over LA. As a primarily white area, I know that it’s hard to fit in these younger girls. I know what it means to be black in LA and helping little girls understand themselves and their self-care journey is what drives me.

WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT? HOW DO YOU DEVIATE FROM THE STATUS QUO?

I am the type of person that goes for what they want. I give 110% on everything I’m passionate about and Girl Well has been a success due to my effort. It starts with me and ends with me so if I don’t go for what I want, then who will? I also am not afraid to ask others for help. I didn’t reach this position alone and my parents were a great help. They deviated me from the status quo by allowing me to understand the essence of giving back at such a young age.

WHAT DOES BEING NOMINATED FOR MAROON TIGER’S MAN OF THE YEAR MEAN TO YOU?

It makes me feel honored. It tells me my peers are seeing my work and might want to help and join in on my journey of getting unsheltered little girls’ self-care. I brought Girl Well to Spelman in April and the publicity it has gotten is a dream come true. I hope to get Girl Well out across all 50 states so every little girl can start the self-care journey they need.

NORMAN THOMAS III

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT?

My gift is the ability to effectively engage with people from all walks of life. One of the things I was chosen to do in middle school was to serve as a student ambassador with my fellow students with disabilities. So many of my classmates would make fun of the students with disabilities, but because of my own personal challenges with fitting in, I knew how important it was to be a friend to others. I learned that people come wrapped in all different packages, but there is value in everyone. My ability to be able to connect with people no matter the age, race, gender, or ability level is a gift that has been recognized by those around me.

JAYSON FAULKNER

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

My name is Jayson Faulkner and I am a freshman Biology major with a Public Health Science minor from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up in a family that emphasized the importance of perseverance and hard work, I developed a strong sense of determination and drive. My goal is to become a pediatric anesthesiologist, a challenging career that requires dedication and focus. Despite the responsibilities that come with being the first-born son, I enjoy being around his family and appreciate the support and guidance provided by my mother. With my eyes on the future, I am working hard to achieve my goals and make a positive impact in the world.

LENNOX LEE

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT? WHAT MAKES YOU SPECIAL?

My gift is to put people in a good mood and also to take care of myself. And athough I don’t always want attention, people always try to cheer for me. I use my gift to amplify black culture by looking out for people like my friends and family. I just want to be recognized as a great person.

MARCELLIS MCQUEEN

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

My story is quite simple. My name is Marcellis McQueen, and I am a freshman born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. I am an education studies major with the intention of going into the classroom to teach students that look just like me. This predisposition towards helping those younger than me probably comes from be being the oldest of seven children and a first-generation college student. Teaching kids can be a lot of pressure, and as you can see I’m very comfortable with that. My passion has always been helping others succeed and reach their goals while also reaching my own. I am rooted in ensuring that education is not just equal but also equitable. All and all, my story has really just begun and being here at Morehouse College helps me add to this story every day.

TAYLOR MILLS

“Our culture is full of creativity and talent, and we don’t have a problem expressing who we are as a community. We need laughter, love, and comfort because we live in a world that used to tarnish our well-being for their entertainment and continues to try to do so. We live in a world that continues to knock down our culture by killing and creating negative spaces for us to fail. Knowing that people support and favor what I love to do means so much. It also means the world because it makes my first year of college unique and heartfelt from the love I get from my AUC and HBCU family!”

JALIL QUICK

TALK TO US ABOUT YOUR ‘UNCONVENTIONAL’ EXPERIENCE AT MOREHOUSE

So my first week I dropped out of Morehouse. I was only out for three days and I sold out in two. The entertainment industry has always been something I’ve wanted to do and I feel like the entertainment industry and the clothing industry collide in a sense. You could give me an egg right now and I’ll be able to sell it. I aspire to be a serial entrepreneur, in essence.

ANIABA JEAN-BAPTISTE

D’MARRE J.L. CRADDOCK

JORDAN PHILLIPS

DARION JOHNSON

NAYA WELCHER

Rollin Jackson Jr. has been one of the most stand-out students from the Class of ‘25. The sophomore, Political Science major, International Studies minor student on the Pre-Law track is St. Louis, Missouri native. He is an Eagle Scout, and a lover of all things Apple, nature, and spending time with friends. Jackson serves in Student Government Association (SGA), The Bonner Office of Community Service, the Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Scholars Program, and he is also a member of the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. His father is a 1992 graduate of Morehouse, his uncle is a 2013 graduate of Morehouse, and his aunt is also a Class of 2007 graduate of Spelman College “Morehouse has offered my so many different opportunities that I would never have gotten anywhere else in the world. I am forever indebted to this institution and to my friends, family, and peers for helping support me in my good days and my bad days,” he said.

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT?

I would say that my gift is my caring personality. I find it important to care for all those around me, as being in a fostering environment is what can help myself and all those that I am surrounded by in our community. I find it important to cherish the little things in life. We never know what others are going through, so the smallest “hello”, “have a good day”, or dap-up on Brown Street can really be what somebody needs for the day. Never forget to care about people. They will return the care for you as well!!

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE NOMINATED AND REPRESENT THE CLASS OF 25 FOR MOTY?

Being nominated to represent the Everlive class of 2025 for Maroon Tiger’s MOTY publication is the honor of a lifetime. I would not be here and doing what I am doing without the support of my peers from all over the AUC. We truly work hand in hand with each other and our campuses to be able to impact those around us and create a lasting legacy for the community going forward. Being able to be the representative for the Class of 2025, a class that gets it done, will forever be a blessing to me!I would say that the class of 2025, truly lives our nickname “Everlive.” From campus involvement to community work, I am blessed to stand beside all of my peers in the class of 2025 as we work to be the change that we so desperately need in our communities and in our world. All of my classmates, all throughout the AUC, are always called and compelled to action and service. The class of 2025 is filled with all around and well-balanced men and women. We are truly, and forever will be everlive!

Miles Moten was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. Both of his parents are HBCU graduates and entrepreneurs. This influenced his decision to come to Morehouse College as a business administration major with a concentration in management. Miles wanted to attend an HBCU because he wanted to find a place that he could call home. During his college admission process, he faced adversity when he didn’t get the results he wanted from Howard University. “I believe that was God telling me I should focus on Morehouse. It was a blessing because I could get a scholarship to help me pay for school. It also gave me the home I never knew I needed. Attending Morehouse allowed me to create everlasting bonds with my Morehouse brothers and AUC siblings.”

He’s a person that is humble, kind-hearted, and well-accomplished. He has accomplished many things during his matriculation at Morehouse College. Miles has shown us that he exemplifies what it means to be a student leader. Miles has been an honor student since freshman year and was announced as one of the Top Ranking Morehouse College Scholars 2023. He currently serves as the Vice President of the Sophomore Class Council, Student Leadership Ambassador for the Department of Student Leadership Talent and Development, Collegiate 100 member, The Cycle Organization Secretary, Honors Program member, MBA, and Scholars of Finance.

Being nominated for “The New Guard” award shocked Miles. “Wow, oh my gosh. I feel amazing!” and “Being nominated for an award like this says a lot because it allows me to know that I am making an impact around campus and people are watching me.” He acknowledges that the class of 2025 has several heavy hitters, so being selected was such an honor.

When our class first entered the AUC, we didn’t experience everything previous classes experienced due to COVID-19. But that didn’t interfere with every move he made this school year. When asked, “What does being in ‘The New Guard’ mean to you?” Miles stated, “Our class is coming to protect our institution’s values, traditions, and mission. We’re essentially guarding what upperclassmen and alumni have taught us so we can continue the legacy and teach it to incoming classes coming to Morehouse through NSO.”

Miles’s gift is what makes him a pillar of his community. When he was asked how being the “New Guard” reflects his gift, he said, “Character development is essential as we age and move into adulthood. I believe I am a people person and am here to uplift people through acts of service, leadership, and friendship. My dad always told me that I would be someone who would always be a leader since I was a kid. He told me that I would be the light that Morehouse College needed. At first, I was hesitant, but now I see it. It’s not about the awards and praise, but it’s more about the impact. When I leave this world, I want people to remember me as a kind-hearted spirit, a servant for my community, and a leader.”

D’MARRE J.L. CRADDOCK

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF BY GRADUATION AND WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE WANTED TO COMPLETE?

I see myself as the Morehouse Chapel Assistant President. I see myself being a social pillar in the AUC (Atlanta University Center). Being a resource and place where you can embody any sense of spirituality and be unapologetically free to express yourself. I want to ensure by the time I graduate that I set a firm foundation for whatever space or organization that you walk into; you can be who you are so you don’t have to subject yourself to respectability politics as that shouldn’t be the norm of what any organization should embody. I hope to ensure that whatever space I am in and you may enter that you are the norm. That it is a communal space where you can feel welcomed.

ANIABA JEAN-BAPTISTE

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE NOMINATED AND REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CLASS OF 25 FOR MAN OF THE YEAR?

On one hand, I want to express my gratitude to the individuals who saw value in my work and nominated me, and on the other hand, this opportunity charges me with more strength to keep creating. The House was my dream school, and I will always thank God for having made this dream come true, and though I am only here for a season, I am definitely here for a reason. I am of Prince of Morehouse, on a journey to one day become worthy of her Crown.

DARION JOHNSON

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

My story composes of where I am from. I was born in Belle Grade, FL. Belle Grade, Florida is known for being a violent and one of the poorest cities in Florida. I don’t allow where I come from define who I am. I am what Belle Grade taught me, which is being a servant leader. I develop a servant leader state of mind because of hardworking my mother, father, and stepfather are. I was taught to move tenaciously and everything I do my story is composed of me serving my mother served her whole entire life and she continues to serve. My story is composed of me serving. My mother because she served her whole entire life and she

-continues to serve. My story wouldn’t be complete without my mother’s. When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer that became a part of my story. It groomed me in the spiritual component as well as a servitude component.

JORDAN PHILLIPS

HOW HAS WHERE YOU’RE FROM MADE YOU THE PERSON YOU ARE TODAY?

I come from the City of Philadelphia where the environment growing up and even now isn’t the best. Growing up in a city where you had to always be aware of your surroundings, where people didn’t always encourage one another, and envy lay among most. It wasn’t all bad, but it was adversity. It gave me more of a reason to continue the work I currently do. It gave me the heart for wanting to create change and to bring a new and positive narrative to the place I call home. It made me tough. It made me learn that “no” wasn’t good enough and to keep trying. It made me into a person who at every given moment takes the chance to congratulate my brothers on the work they do, give credence to those who paved the way before me, and be a resource to my brothers who may need some direction. Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love. It prepared me for the real world and some of the harsh realities I may face. But it is a place I call home, and a place I am forever grateful for.

NAYA WELCHER

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT SO FAR IN THE AUC?

This question calls for so much introspection. I have conversed with Kevin Hart, done research on elections with the Math department, graduated from WELS, been elected to SGA, done Spelman on the Hill, Bonner research on food deserts, and even growing my church’s presence on campus. While these are all commendable, the most rewarding, is being selected as the top sophomore student in the Math Department. Being a STEM major is challenging, and I constantly question my competence and capability. To balance conferences, extracurriculars, and still be recognized for my intellect is extremely valuable in affirming my role in the AUC.

MELANIE DE LA ROSA

BREAH BANKS

TY MOORE

MILES HICKMAN

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

I always particularly did well in school and HBCUs were not really on my mind. I always looked at Ivy League institutions. In my freshman year of high school, I wanted to go to the University of Pennsylvania, and by my senior year, that switched to Princeton. I remember I applied to five schools, and got into three schools, Morehouse being the only HBCU I applied to and the only HBCU I ever visited. I got into the Ivy League school I always wanted to attend, but it no longer felt like me. When I visited Morehouse it was something strange, the fall of my senior year of high school. I had never been there before, but it felt like I had walked Brown Street before yet I had never stepped foot on campus prior. Besides my own house, I have never felt more at home than I have at Morehouse. Morehouse offered me a full scholarship and an experience. I sent my acceptance to Morehouse and I never looked back. The experience has been a unique one, starting my freshman year online, but I am a big believer in “I have my brothers’ back” and a big believer in the alumni network that Morehouse has to offer. The majority of the time that has been spent at Morehouse, I have spent trying to open doors for myself that I can then open for others, whether it has been with career paths in consulting, MBA, SGA, or C100. By the grace of God, I have opened doors for my brothers as soon as I have the opportunity to walk through them. My story is a testament to how genuine I have been in trying to pave the way for my younger Morehouse brothers, and how intentional I have been to take heed to the advice of my older Morehouse brothers as well. The consideration for this nomination, especially this year, is interesting because for me this has been a year of a lot of personal failures. In terms of my student responsibilities, relationship, accolades, honors, and things I was reaching for. This nomination speaks to the impact I have had on campus by being myself, genuinely having my brothers’ back, and doing my best. The key word I would use to sum my story up is gratitude.

HOW DO YOU DEVIATE FROM THE STATUS QUO?

One of my favorite quotes is from a Morehouse man, Howard Thurman, “If you are trying to figure out what the world needs, find what makes you come alive, not what sets you on fire. What the world needs is people that have come alive.” The world needs people that are truly passionate about what they do. Money is a lagging indicator, not a leading indicator. What sets me apart is the ability to be present and passionate about all aspects of life and not get caught up in the accolades. That is something I really learned a lot about in my junior year. God really had to break down my pride in a lot of areas concerning my pride in titles, positions, and accomplishments and He had to humble me. With that humility came gratitude for the impact I am able to have on my Morehouse brothers. The thing that sets me apart is that I let Morehouse run through me and not just run through Morehouse.

BREAH BANKS

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO NETWORK AND GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS?

It is important to network and get involved on campus because it provides one with so much opportunity. We attend some of the top HBCU institutions in the world. With that comes Professors, administrators, your very Spelman sisters, Morehouse brothers, and Clark family that are all dedicated to your growth and success. Networking and being involved on campus has granted me leadership opportunities, but also the ability to work and meet so many of my peers. It was being involved in campus organizations in the midst of COVID-19 during the quarantine that allowed me to still build relationships virtually through first year class council.

MELANIE DE LA ROSA

WHAT ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE AUC? WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE TO BE YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

Throughout my matriculation at Spelman College, I’ve been blessed to be an Amazon Financial Analyst and Bessemer Trust Advisory Wealth/Management intern. Additionally, I am a Omicron Delta Epsilon Scholar, Women of Excellence in Leadership at Spelman College Fall 2022 Cohort, a part of the Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Mu Pi Chapter. It is hard to say which achievement I am most proud of because they all played meaningful roles in my development as a student, leader and developing professional. Ultimately, I cherish and value [experiences that have] the capacity for me to grow and develop into a well-rounded leader. All of my experiences meet this criteria by challenging me to be my best self in all aspects of my life.

MILES HICKMAN

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT?

My gift is balance. One thing that I learned in highschool is to learn to be a renaissance man and give your all in a couple different fields and be well versed. When I came to

-Morehouse, one of the things that brought me in was the five wells (well dressed, well traveled, well spoken, well read, well rounded). I feel like I’ve lived that out with MBA and my leadership and our programs related to business finance and entrepreneurship. Now with my fraternity I have a new platform to both MBA and the frat to young folks seeking financial freedom and literacy.

TY MOORE

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BE A PART OF THE STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM?

I am the product of a SpelHouse family. Even with all of this influence, as a child who had everything he needed to succeed in the world; two successful parents who had attended institutions in the AUC; a plethora of “aunts and uncles” who did the same; five campus tours; and attended events such as A Candle in the Dark Gala, I was still not convinced that Morehouse College would be the greatest investment in my life. As someone who almost slipped through the cracks even with Morehouse being a significant part of my life growing up, I know the value in Student Ambassadors who light the path for prospective students. I still remember my Homecoming tour from Bryin Thomas who completely changed my outlook on the college. It is this life changing decision that I strive to invoke and awake in the future generations of Men of Morehouse.

WILLIAM MURPHY

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE MOREHOUSE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION?

Now that I’ve been elected the next MBA president, it’s ironic that I had no idea what the MBA was in my first year. Being an extrovert, I got lucky to meet leaders on the E-Board, and they were willing to pour knowledge into me. I was in the right place at the right time. It’s been a transformational experience being exposed to different industries, people and organizations.

DARYL BODRICK II

TITANS

NAJAH LIGGANS

EDMOND JACKSON

TORRI RODNEY

JASON ROBERSON

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOU. WHAT IS YOUR STORY? HOW HAVE YOU GOTTEN HERE? WHAT BROUGHT US TO THIS POINT OF DOING THIS INTERVIEW?

Why Morehouse? I feel like I literally was chosen. It was like this because for many, [especially] for me, Morehouse was the only school I applied to. And if I wasn’t going to Morehouse, I wasn’t going to college, in my opinion. And so how I found Morehouse was through a nonprofit program where they took 100 young ladies and 50 young men to every HBCU. They gave a tour. We used to get on a charter bus and go down there, and I feel like it just started the exposure. ... Campus Connection was everything, as far as Morehouse specifically. If I want to go in pursuit of excellence, I have to be that now. Well, at least try. I’m saying that it translated to me already wearing suits and I’m wearing my father’s suits to school. I’m wearing ‘too big blazers’ to school. I got his cane with me. Well, it’s like the whole persona.

WHAT DOES BEING A TITAN MEAN TO YOU?

I feel like it means that my heart’s in the right place. It literally means to keep going. ... I’m going to know the right people. Right? The million-dollar plan may not come directly from me. So that means I’m just going to, you know, play my role with everybody. So in my role, I feel like that’s part of being senior class president. ... It’s not that type of relationship; it’s not transactional. Bu I want us to help each other. I want to help all of us.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM YOUR MOREHOUSE EXPERIENCE?

I’d say strolling and being a stroll coach. Honestly, an internship. That’s my top three. Also stroll coming in as a freshman. 17 now. You know, we can be very transparent. You come in. A young, innocent light, unexposed to whatever’s around you. . . .You know, we all came together in the beginning. And now, as you say, we are approaching this stage. We all just had different stories and this is beautiful in most parts to look at because that’s what Morehouse does, regardless. You know, it leaves an impression on all of us.

EDMOND JACKSON

WHAT’S YOUR STORY COMING INTO MOREHOUSE AND WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO OUT ONCE YOU LEAVE?

I am Edmond Jackson, CNN political science major from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Honestly, I didn’t want to go to school when I left high school. I wanted to go to the Navy, and I was part of a group called Men of an Amate, which is a group for Young Black Men in High school that was started by one of my first mentors, Ernest Green. I was the vice president of that organization. One day we had the alumni meeting and so alumni came back. At the time I was there was Brandon Manor. He came back and we had a little conversation. They had me write essay after essay, letter after letter. Then Morehouse kept denying me and on June 3rd, I got a message from Morehouse stating that I’d been accepted to Morehouse. The next morning, I came to Morehouse, I did the Peacekeepers pre-summer enrichment program because I was on academic probation. I did that for six weeks and that’s where my journey started.

NAJAH LIGGANS

WHAT IS YOUR GIFT, AND HOW WILL YOU USE IT TO AMPLIFY BLACK CULTURE?

My gift is my appreciation and understanding of my purpose to be an example and resource to those around me. I am an extension of everyone that has helped me, and I must pass that help along. In my current internship, I have the opportunity to help college students and young professionals get their break into the sports industry, and it is the most fulfilling project ever. I want to continue closing the gaps and providing resources, support, love, and community to show little Black children they can have it all!

When I traveled to London in September, they spoke to us about character and inspiring change. In everything I do, those two things will be at the base of all of my work to ensure that I am amplifying Black culture.

JASON ROBERSON JR.

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO BE INVOLVED WITH CAMPUS ORGANIZATIONS ON CAMPUS?

Being elected as the Hall Council President of Brazeal Hall helped me learn the intricate system of our dear college. I was able to gain a relationship with many of my brothers and continue the long tradition of B-Rho excellence. For me, Residential Hall Council opened up the door for me to learn how to advocate for my college through the Student Government Association and where I was able to continue this work in other organizations like the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and the first and only historically black college polo team. In all of these organizations, I have learned a plethora of life skills and gained a legion of brothers whom I could relate to in different aspects. I am forever grateful to RHA for introducing me to some of my first friends in the AUC and it all started at the top of the hill in Brazeal Hall.

TORRI RODNEY

HAVING BEEN RECOGNIZED IN YOUR FRESHMAN YEAR, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE THIS FULL CIRCLE MOMENT TO BE RECOGNIZED AGAIN?

It means a lot to know my potential was recognized early on and good to know that I’ve lived up to and exceeded the expectations and potential. I have a tattoo on my arm that says “Never Fall Off” which serves as a reminder to always remain me and not allow the outside noise to get in the way of my goals. I feel like the eyes have always been on me. I’m not a person of the limelight which speaks to me not always being seen around on campus. It shows that hard work really pays off even when you think people aren’t watching what you do.

CREDITS

MAN OF THE YEAR

MANAGED BY MILES JOHNSON

AMIR DUKE WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

JAYLEN BONEY WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

JALEN CURRY WRITTEN BY BENNIE WILLIAMS

MILES JOHNSON WRITTEN BY JUSTIN DARDEN

MARK NICHOLS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

ELISHA TALLEY WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

ARTISANS

MANAGED BY COLIN ROYAL

TAHAJ TANKSLEY-BARRETT WRITTEN BY COLIN ROYAL

EMMANUEL AGORO WRITTEN BY COLIN ROYAL

HASANI COMER WRITTEN BY COLIN ROYAL

NOAH HARRISON WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

LILA JAI WRITTEN BY ANDY HARRIS

JUSTIN UPSHAW WRITTEN BY COLIN ROYAL

JUGGERNAUTS

MANAGED BY KOBE SCALES/CLIFTON DUTTON

KALIN BENNETT WRITTEN BY KOBE SCALES

RODNEY GROSS WRITTEN BY CHELSEY GASQUE

DAVID COLEMAN II WRITTEN BY NILES GARRISON

CHUKWUEBUKA NWAFOR WRITTEN BY CLIFTON DUTTON

OLIVIA ROBINSON WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

DANTEZ SIMPSON WRITTEN BY JUSTIN DARDEN

ADVOCATES

MANAGED BY BENNIE WILLIAMS

DAXTON PETTUS WRITTEN BY BENNIE WILLIAMS

CALVIN BELL WRITTEN BY BENNIE WILLIAMS

TREY CAUSEY WRITTEN BY BENNIE WILLIAMS

LAUREN NICKS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

MEKHI PERRIN WRITTEN BY UNIMASHI AKANDE

WOMAN OF THE YEAR

MANAGED BY MILES JOHNSON

ASIA BROWN WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

MAYA BLASINGAME WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

KANNETTE KING WRITTEN BY BENNIE WILLIAMS

CHANDLER NUTALL WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

GIA TEJEDA WRITTEN BY RACHEL PATRICK

TRENDSETTERS

MANAGED BY ELIJAH MEGGINSON

DAVID “DAVE” FLOWERS WRITTEN BY ELIJAH MEGGINSON

CHASE BRATHWAITE WRITTEN BY EVAN SPANN

TIMOTHY DAVIS WRITTEN BY QUINTON NOAKES

EJIOFO “EJI” MBANEFO WRITTEN BY ELIJAH MEGGINSON

BROOKLYNN MULLINS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

INTELLECTUALS

MANAGED BY AUZZY BYRDSELL

JOHN CURRY WRITTEN BY AUZZY BYRDSELL

AMAIA CALHOUN WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

CORNELL HARRIS WRITTEN BY AUZZY BRYDSELL

GEORGE PRATT WRITTEN BY THISHIN “TRUTH” JACKSON

ELIJAH TRUITT WRITTEN BY AUZZY BRYDSELL

WANDERERS

MANAGED BY KOBE SCALES

MICHAEL HENRY WRITTEN BY KOBE SCALES

AUZZY BYRDSELL WRITTEN BY KOBE SCALES

MARKELL KELLEY WRITTEN BY KOBE SCALES

WILL LATHAN WRITTEN BY KOBE SCALES

DESTINEE WHITAKER WRITTEN BY KOBE SCALES

ENTREPRENEURS

MANAGED BY KOBE SCALES

FIRST FLOOR PRODUCTIONS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

SUMMER CLEMONS WRITTEN BY CAMERAN WILKINS

RYAN GRIMMETT WRITTEN BY THISHIN “TRUTH” JACKSON

KRIS KERR WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

MIKAYLA ROSS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

NEW GUARD (SOPHOMORES)

MANAGED BY MILES JOHNSON/CHELSEY GASQUE

RJ JACKSON JR. WRITTEN BY AUZZY BYRDSELL

MILES MOTEN WRITTEN BY CHELSEY GASQUE

D’MARRE J.L. CRADDOCK WRITTEN BY JORDAN PHILLIPS

ANIABA JEAN-BAPTISTE WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

DARION JOHNSON WRITTEN BY CHELSEY GASQUE

JORDAN PHILLIPS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

NAYA WELCHER WRITTEN BY ZORIA MCCLERKLIN

FUTURE (FRESHMEN)

MANAGED BY HUNTER BONAPARTE

KAYLI JOY COOPER WRITTEN BY NILES GARRISON

NORMAN THOMAS III WRITTEN BY HUNTER BONAPARTE

JAYSON FAULKNER WRITTEN BY BRADLEY MORRISON

LENNOX LEE WRITTEN BY BRADLEY MORRISON

MARCELLIS MCQUEEN WRITTEN BY HUNTER BONAPARTE

TAYLOR MILLS WRITTEN BY BRADLEY MORRISON

JALIL QUICK WRITTEN BY BRADLEY MORRISON

ESTABLISHMENT (JUNIORS)

MANAGED BY ANDY HARRIS

KAMAHL GRANT WRITTEN BY KAI INGRAM

BREAH BANKS WRITTEN BY KAITLYN WHITNER

MILES HICKMAN WRITTEN BY AUZZY BYRDSELL

TY MOORE WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

WILLIAM MURPHY WRITTEN BY THISHIN “TRUTH” JACKSON

TITANS (SENIORS)

MANAGED BY ANDY HARRIS

DARYL BODRICK II WRITTEN BY ANDY HARRIS

EDMOND JACKSON WRITTEN BY JUSTIN DARDEN

NAJAH LIGGANS WRITTEN BY MILES JOHNSON

JASON ROBERSON WRITTEN BY JUSTIN DARDEN

TORRI RODNEY WRITTEN BY JORDAN PHILLIPS

MAGAZINE

MOTY & WOTY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KOLLIN WASHINGTON

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY HARRIS

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIMOTHY SALMON

LAYOUT BY JOSHUA ELON BROWN

GRAPHIC DESIGN BY JOSHUA ELON BROWN

ADDITIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN BY ZINDZI GRIFFIN

EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY ANDY HARRIS (EDITOR IN-CHIEF)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY MILES JOHNSON (MANAGING PRINT EDITOR)

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

NOAH McMILLAN

TIGER TV SPORTS PRODUCER (2017-2021)

Written by Andy Harris

WHAT DID IT MEAN TO LEAD A TIGERTV TEAM DURING COVID?

Covid was a big obstacle because it restricted a lot of the in-person interactions that were so valuable as I was matriculating through MT. But I think it forced me to be a lot more aware of the ways in which I communicate and lead the sports group.

WHAT HAVE YOU ACCOMPLISHED SINCE GRADUATING FROM MH?

MT actually gave me skills that I could take directly into the industry. I’m a graduate of the Berkeley School of Journalism. I’m a production assistant for the Golden State Warriors, where I helped cover them during their championship season. I’m a game designer for PlayStation. I’ve been able to have my hand in so many different fields and it’s truly been a blessing being able to learn so many different things.

WORDS OF ADVICE TO THE NEW LEADERS OF MT?

Truly embody being a leader. Understand the different aspects of whatever industry you plan to be in. And use your network. There are so many jobs that you could get by just knowing somebody.

WHERE ARE YOU WORKING NOW?

I’ve just accepted a full-time role with San Diego Studios working on MLB The Show. I also plan on continuing my career as a journalist and a creative working in various roles.