UNDERGRADUATE NEWS: ULI—THE THETA CLASS
in the financial sector. Following clear passage of facility security protocols, the entire ULI team was given a tour of the building prior to their arrival to meet Brother David Christian, Senior Vice President of Regions Bank, a recent ad- dition to our partnership team. Together with a team of outstanding vice presi- dents, including Alma Hughes, Cecelia Bailey, and Tiffany Kirk, brothers were engaged in lessons regarding the iden- tification of their leadership strengths and developmental opportunities for professional growth. They also partici- pated in a team lunch and networking session with Regions executives, where they learned more about the operational details of the organization and explored potential internship and employment opportunities. Nearing the final day of the institute, Friday provided the additional space for
miscellaneous, but important, dimen- sions of leadership to be explored. Among them were focuses on social and emotional health within relational lead- ership and leading groups; the role of gender and masculinity in understanding what constitutes an equity-conscious leader, and; leadership strategies to solve complex problems with others. A final set of professionally focused sessions were facilitated by corporate partner Walmart, whom also provided a week’s supply of food and beverage to keep participants hydrated and energized in the Atlanta heat. The day concluded with a social outing in which the entire program was shuttled to a nearby Top Golf facility to fellowship, fraternize, and watch Game 6 of the NBA finals. Under the final theme of “Achievement,” the ULI concluded on Saturday, June 9th. After class photos, the Theta Class
and institute staff processed into the tiered board room to Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance” for commencement ex- ercises. The formal program was opened with a brief invocation, immediately followed by a series of special presenta- tions to members of the leadership team and advising corps. Next, Brother Jwy- anza Watt, ULI Director, was presented with an official fraternity resolution in recognition of his outstanding leadership and direction of the program since 2011. Sometime thereafter, Brother Watt then introduced 31 st Grand Polemarch, Dwayne M. Murray, Esq., who served as commencement speaker. In his remarks, Brother Battles charged the soon-to-be graduates to hear and head the call to leadership. He reinforced the excep- tional nature of their participation in the ULI. Having been carefully selected as the chosen few from among the many,
Above: Derek Christian, Senior Vice President of Regions Bank and ULI Director Jwyanza Watt, led the Theta Class on a tour of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (FBRA). Here, they present FBRA Vice President Alma Hughes with a certificate of appreciation in providing guidance on the federal banking system, financial careers and leadership in the financial sector.
Publishing achievement for 105 years
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