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Miles College UNCF PAC Earns National Recognition at 2026 Leadership Conference
Miles College students returned from the 2026 UNCF NAC/NPAC Leadership Conference and Alumni Summit not only inspired, but nationally recognized. From scholarship awards to major council honors, the weekend marked a defining moment for the institution’s growing UNCF presence.
For the first time in recent years, the Miles College UNCF Pre-Alumni Council was named Most Improved PAC, a recognition that reflects months of intentional leadership development, programming growth, and student engagement.
One of the conference’s most powerful moments came when Brandan Smith received the $2,500 EMT Scholarship Award after proudly representing Miles College and sharing how the scholarship would advance his educational goals. His recognition set the tone for the weekend, one rooted in preparation and purpose.
For Taylor Jackson, Miss UNCF Queen, the conference represented both responsibility and opportunity.
Being in rooms filled with leaders, recruiters, and changemakers reminded me that representation matters, as Miss UNCF, I carry Miles College with me everywhere I go. This experience showed me that our voices belong in national conversations.” -Taylor Jackson, Miles College Miss UNCF 2025-2026
The Gala evening brought elegance and celebration, but it was also a moment of reflection. Students watched alumni leaders such as Travis Posley, who received the NAA President's Cabinet Chairman Award, and Andrea Davis, recipient of the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, be honored for their impact. Witnessing alumni achievement reinforced the power of long-term engagement and leadership.
As President of the Miles College PAC, Joycelyn Tinker saw the Most Improved PAC award as a symbol of collective effort.
“This award isn’t just about recognition, it's about growth. We’ve worked intentionally to strengthen our council, support one another, and elevate Miles College on a national level. Seeing that work acknowledged means everything.” -Joycelyn Tinker 89th Miss Miles College 2025-2026
Throughout the conference, students participated in professional workshops, career fairs, and networking sessions with industry leaders. For freshman attendee Jaylen McNeely, the experience was transformative.
“As a first-year student, this was my first time attending the conference, and it expanded my vision. I had conversations about internships and future careers that made everything feel real. It showed me that success is accessible if you prepare for it.” -Jaylen McNeely
Beyond awards and workshops, the true impact of the weekend was seen in the bonds strengthened among the students. Shared preparation sessions, late-night reflections, and group strategy discussions deepened relationships and reinforced a shared commitment to excellence.
Miles College’s presence at the 2026 UNCF Conference was more than participation; it was momentum. With scholarship wins, alumni honors, national recognition, and meaningful student growth, the weekend underscored the institution’s continued rise in leadership and engagement within the UNCF network.
The work continues, but this milestone affirms that Miles College students are not just attending conferences; they are shaping the future.
