Alumni Achievement Awards

Howard C. Barnhill Distinguished Service Award

Howard Clinton Barnhill, Sr., a 1938 graduate of N.C. A&T State University, dedicated his life to uplifting his alma mater and the broader community. Through his leadership as president of the A&T Alumni Association and the Queen City chapter in Charlotte, he spearheaded the creation of 18 new alumni chapters and introduced the “regional concept,” strengthening community ties and communication. His service on the University’s Board of Trustees reflected his deep commitment to educational advancement and student success. Barnhill’s legacy is one of unity, service and visionary leadership.

Julia S. Brooks Achievement Award

Julia Shivers Brooks demonstrated exceptional and sustained service to N.C. A&T through decades of leadership, advocacy and alumni engagement. A 1944 graduate, she became an active member of the Alumni Association in 1950 and has served in numerous capacities at the local, regional and national levels. She made history as the first female president of the Alumni Association, the first president residing outside North Carolina, and the first to serve three consecutive terms. Her leadership extended to simultaneous service as president of both the national association and the Philadelphia chapter. She also served as Parliamentarian for both the Northeast Region and the Philadelphia Chapter, helping shape the governance and growth of the association. Her dedication to N.C. A&T students is evident in her financial support for their education, directly contributing to their academic and professional success. Her service has been recognized through awards and testimonial honors from both the university and the broader community. Brooks’ pioneering leadership and unwavering commitment to N.C. A&T leaves a legacy of pride, achievement and dedication to every Aggie, everywhere.

Dr. Velma Speight Young Alumnus/Alumna Award

Velma R. Speight is a trailblazing educator and civic leader whose career spans more than four decades of service in education, alumni engagement and community advocacy. A proud graduate of N.C. A&T, Speight earned her M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland and went on to serve as Assistant State Superintendent for the Maryland State Department of Education. Her commitment to education extended to leadership roles at several universities, including East Carolina University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where she was honored as Teacher of the Year. In 1991, she was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study in Ghana and Senegal.Returning to her alma mater in 1993, Speight served as director of Alumni Affairs and continued her service post-retirement as chair of the Board of Trustees and leader of the Chancellor Search Committee. Her legacy is cemented through an honorary doctorate, keynote speaking roles, and the naming of campus facilities in her honor.