SAU Alumni Honored with National UNCF Awards at 2026 Leadership Conference
51重口猎奇鈥檚 University (SAU) celebrates three alumni, Sandy Chapman, 鈥�90, Dr. Johnelle Sherald, 鈥�76, and Veronica Mack Cohen, 鈥�77, who were honored at the , held February 19鈥�22 in Houston, Texas.
鈥淭he achievements of Sandy Chapman, Dr. Johnelle Sherald, and Veronica Mack Cohen reflect the enduring legacy of leadership, service, and excellence that 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University instills in its graduates,鈥� said SAU Board of Trustees Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淭heir national recognition through UNCF not only celebrates their individual accomplishments but also underscores the profound impact SAU alumni continue to make in strengthening our communities, advancing educational opportunity, and uplifting the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.鈥�
These honors highlight the enduring legacy of SAU graduates who lead with excellence, service, and commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
鈥淭hese alumni represent the very best of SAU,鈥� said SAU Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson. 鈥淭heir national recognition through UNCF is a testament not only to their individual excellence but to the enduring power of an SAU education rooted in service, leadership, and faith. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and grateful for the example they continue to set for our students and alumni around the world.鈥�
Sandy Chapman 鈥�90 Inducted into UNCF Hall of Honor
Alumnus Sandy Chapman 鈥�90听received the prestigious Most Outstanding Alumni Award听and was inducted into the UNCF Hall of Honor, one of the organization鈥檚 highest distinctions.
The award recognizes alumni for exceptional dedication to their alma mater, community service, and steadfast support of UNCF鈥檚 mission.
A proud Falcon, Chapman consistently supports SAU initiatives, builds alumni engagement, and leads with humility and integrity.
As part of the honor, Chapman鈥檚 portrait will be permanently displayed in the UNCF Hall of Honor in Washington, D.C., ensuring his legacy endures.
Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76 Receives 2026 NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet Chairman鈥檚 Award
National Alumni Association of SAU President Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76听was recognized as one of five recipients of the 2026 NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet Chairman鈥檚 Award.
The award honors exceptional dedication, leadership, and service among National Alumni Association Presidents representing UNCF member institutions.
The UNCF National Alumni Council, founded in 1946, supports and strengthens Historically Black Colleges and Universities by promoting best practices and advancing student success. The NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet includes leaders from 37 UNCF member institutions and serves as a vital network advancing fundraising and institutional leadership initiatives.
Dr. Sherald鈥檚 recognition highlights her leadership and advocacy for SAU鈥檚 alumni community.
Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77 Named 2026 UNCF Pre-Alumni Council Advisor of the Year
Alumna Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77听was honored with the 2026 UNCF Pre-Alumni Council Advisor of the Year Award, recognizing her decades of dedication to student leadership, professional development, and alumni engagement.
As Pre-Alumni Council Advisor at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Cohen has consistently mentored students and ensured their active participation in national UNCF initiatives, including the Miss UNCF Coronation and leadership conferences. Many of her mentees have gone on to serve in national leadership roles within the UNCF Pre-Alumni Council.
In addition to her work with students, Cohen is a Life Member of the National Alumni Association of SAU and serves as its Financial Secretary on the Executive Board, further demonstrating her lifelong commitment to the university.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
These national recognitions underscore the profound impact of SAU alumni across the UNCF network and beyond. From national leadership to student mentorship, SAU Falcons continue to exemplify service, excellence, and commitment to advancing educational opportunity.
SAU and the National Alumni Association extend heartfelt congratulations to Sandy Chapman 鈥�90, Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76, and Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77 for their outstanding achievements and continued dedication to the mission of UNCF and SAU.
听to learn more about the National Alumni Association of 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University
听to learn more about the UNCF National Alumni Council
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