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 inspired, affirmed, and nationally recognized. From scholarship awards to council honors, the weekend marked meaningful progress for the College’s growing presence within the UNCF network.

For the first time in recent years, the Miles College UNCF Pre-Alumni Council was named Most Improved PAC. The recognition reflects months of focused leadership development, expanded programming, and deeper student engagement. It represents steady work behind the scenes and a collective commitment to growth.

One of the weekend’s defining moments came when Brandan Smith received the $2,500 EMT Scholarship Award after proudly representing Miles College and sharing how the scholarship would support his academic journey. His achievement set the tone for the delegation’s presence throughout the conference.

For Taylor Jackson, Miss UNCF Queen, the experience carried 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

 

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During the Gala, students witnessed alumni leaders such as Travis Posley, recipient of the NAA President's Cabinet Chairman Award, and Andrea Davis, honored with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, who were recognized for their continued impact. Watching alumni leadership in real time reinforced the value of staying engaged long after graduation.

As President of the Miles College PAC, Joycelyn Tinker described the Most Improved PAC honor as a shared victory.

“This award reflects the work we’ve done together.”We’ve strengthened our council, supported one another, and committed to representing Miles College with excellence. Seeing that effort recognized means a great deal.” -Joycelyn Tinker, 89th Miss Miles College 2025-2026

 

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Students also participated in professional workshops, career fairs, and networking sessions that connected classroom learning to real-world pathways. Freshman Jaylen McNeely reflected on how the conference expanded his outlook.

“As a first-year student, this was my first time attending, and it shifted my perspective. I had conversations about internships and future careers that made everything feel possible. It reminded me that preparation creates opportunity.” -Jaylen McNeely

 

Beyond the awards and sessions, the weekend strengthened relationships among the students. Strategy meetings, shared preparation, and honest reflection deepened their commitment to one another and to the work ahead.

Miles College’s presence at the 2026 UNCF Conference reflected momentum and maturity. Scholarship recognition, alumni honors, and national acknowledgment affirmed that our students are actively contributing to the broader UNCF community.

Students interested in leadership development, professional exposure, and national networking are encouraged to join the Miles College UNCF Pre-Alumni Council. Opportunities like this begin with participation, and the impact extends far beyond a single conference.

The work continues, and the growth is visible.