Since the moment she walked onto the University of Miami campus, Astin Hayes has worked to push the agenda for Black student life through United Black Students, Delta Sigma Theta, Yellow Rose Society, Hurricane Productions, and a host of other activities and organizations. This motivation did not end once she graduated. Astin returns yearly for Homecoming and graduations, gives back to the University, and stays abreast of university news. Astin has served on the board for the last four years. Working alongside other board members to build a strong foundation for the black alumni society.

Jason Starr has over 15 years of experience as an attorney, educator, and strategist in the fight for human rights. His practice is multi-dimensional and spans the public, nonprofit, and social entrepreneurship sectors - employing litigation, public policy advocacy, and organizing - and rooted in meaningful partnership with people and communities. Jason is the former and founding Director of Impact Litigation and current Senior Strategist at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest LGBTQ+ civil rights membership organization, where he built a partnership hub for strategic collaborative pro-bono impact litigation with grassroots legal activists, private law firms, and mutual aid organizations. In this work, he is counsel in cases challenging laws that seek to eliminate legal protections for transgender Americans in healthcare and education. Notably, he is currently challenging discriminatory laws in Florida and Tennessee that prevent transgender girls from playing on girls’ sports teams and trans youth from using safe school restrooms, respectively. He also represents parties as “friend of the court” in cases addressing legal equality in state and federal court. Jason also manages Global LGBTQ+ Litigation Partnerships, identifying law reform support and partnership opportunities across the Global South.

Dr. Christopher Clarke is the Assistant Vice President for Community Belonging & Success and an Adjunct Lecturer at Austin Peay State University, where he oversees the Adult, Non-Traditional, & Transfer Student Center, Career Success Center, Latino Community Resource Center, and African American Cultural Center. Before joining Austin Peay State University, Dr. Clarke held several leadership roles, including Assistant Dean at the University of Miami School of Law and Director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs. His career also includes impactful work at institutions such as the University of Michigan, the University of Chicago, and the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he spearheaded initiatives focused on multiculturalism, leadership, health equity, and student success.  Dr. Clarke earned his Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies & Justice and Public Policy from Concordia University Wisconsin and his Master of Public Administration from Roosevelt University in Organizational Leadership. He received his Doctor of Education from the University of Miami School of Education and Human Development, where his dissertation focused on Perceptions of Inclusive Leadership for Minoritized Generation Z Collegians. Dr. Clarke has been recognized twice as a 40 Under 40 Higher Administrator by the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust and Legacy Magazine Miami. He was named 2022 Administrator of the Year by the University of Miami Toppel Career Center and honored as the 2023 Patricia A. Whitely Unsung Hero by the University of Miami Undergraduate Student Government Association.

Alana Smith is one of the biggest supporters of the U, whether it be as a student, employee, or alumna. She is always willing to stand in when needed for her alma mater. As a student on campus, she was involved in multiple organizations, including serving as a charter member of the Tau Rho Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Alana always gives her all. She is a dedicated educator having worked at LAUSD. Miami Dade County, Wake County and currently with Great Minds Virtual School. Her creative outlet lies in fashion production where she is co-founder of OnLaVe Signature Productions. She exemplifies promptness, organization, effective communication, and presentation skills which make her a superb fit as secretary of the UM Black Alumni Society.

Kerrol Codallo was raised in a home with strong Caribbean influences. He was instilled with the belief that he could be anything he wanted to be, do anything he wanted to do, and that he should always strive to be a leader.  From elementary school to his time at the University of Miami, Codallo’s ability to engage, captivate, and inspire others affirmed his ability to lead. These qualities have taken him on a journey that has included a 20-year plus career as a leader at a Fortune 250 and Top 100 company to work for.   He loves live music performance, grilling, and is a first generation American. Codallo’s endless drive to impact others and continuously reach new levels of personal success is driven by his belief that everyone should live free, expressively, and intentionally.

Dr. George Koonce has had excellent experiences in working with alumni associations. He is a life member, former chapter, and national president of the Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, Georgia. In 2013, George played a key role as vice-chair of the Class of 1963 50-year reunion, most notable for leading the generation of more than $60,000 for scholarships. In his work with non-profits, George chaired a national search committee that led to hiring a CEO for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). As president of FVSU Alumni, George also participated in selecting Dr. Cleveland Pettigrew as university president.

Dr. Morgan (she/her) is an innovative and passionate leader with a heart for equity, access, inclusion, and social justice. She has conducted numerous studies and presentations on Culturally Responsive Organizations, Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, and access and barriers to STEM at local, national, and international conferences. She has also hosted several keynotes and plenary sessions for educational, nonprofit, and international organizations through her consulting agency, The Executive Learning Lab. In her spare time, Dr. Morgan serves as a board member for several educational organizations, binge watches comedies, and is an avid traveler and foodie. Follow her on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Arthur Faison's profound connection to the University of Miami amplified his fit for the fundraising and treasurer role. A devoted husband and father of two future Hurricanes, he embodied family values and community spirit. His campus tenure was marked by influential leadership roles, including Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity's Iota Chi Chapter and President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. His prowess extended to the business sphere as Vice President of Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity. His impact was also felt through roles like Chair of a Week for Life and Co-Chair of the Student Orientation Committee. Arthur's dedication and leadership aligned perfectly with the UM Black Alumni Society's vision.