Our Shining Scholars
2025-2026
Demin Fisher
Spelman College
A rising voice in storytelling and social justice, Demin is a second-year student majoring in Literature, Media and Writing with a 3.52 GPA. Her extensive involvement spans mental health advocacy, academic honors, international study abroad, national awards, and youth community leadership. She has volunteered with The Garden Church, DOJ programs, and youth advisory groups. Demin plans to become an investigative journalist, author, and human rights lawyer.
Shalaine Rice
Hampton University
Shalaine is a third-year International Studies major (Latin and Caribbean Studies). She brings intellectual curiosity and global awareness to her roles in Model UN, Debate and Forensics, the HU Equestrian Club, and the Freddy T. Davy Honors College. Her community service includes tutoring with the Literacy Enrichment Center and supporting YMCA Youth and Government initiatives. Shalaine intends to pursue a joint JD/PhD and teach History and Global Studies.
Zayvion Cannady
Huston-Tillotson University
With a passion for leadership and advocacy, Zayvion is a third-year English major. His commitments include the Student Government Association, NAACP, Collegiate 100, RAMPAC, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Beyond campus, he actively serves through Texas Rising, a statewide youth mobilization organization. Zayvion aims to pursue a PhD and build a career as an influential educator and community leader.
Alicia Harris
Fisk University
Alicia is a third-year Criminal Justice major and has a strong commitment to leadership and mentorship. She serves as President of the West Coast Connections Club, participates in Student Government, and is part of the Fisk Executive Leadership Program. As a UNCF Mellon Mays Research Fellow, she is preparing for a future in academia. Alicia has also volunteered with Youth for Christ. She plans to become a forensic psychologist and educator.
Gabrielle Cassell
Spelman College
A top scholar, Gabrielle majors in Comparative Women’s Studies and is engaged in research, advocacy, and student leadership. Her roles include UNCF Mellon Mays Research Fellow, Honors Program scholar, student archivist, and president of a national honors society. She also serves at the Women’s Research and Resource Center. Gabrielle aspires to earn a PhD in African Diaspora and Africana Studies with a graduate certificate in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and become a professor at Spelman.
Amara Frazier-Conner
Fisk University
A gifted pianist and dedicated scholar, Amara is a third-year Music major (Piano Concentration). She balances more than a dozen campus activities, including serving as President of the Fisk Music Teacher National Association Collegiate Chapter and a Mental Health and Wellness Student Leader, while also volunteering with Second Harvest Food Bank and the Tennessee Craft Fall Fair. Amara aspires to earn a PhD in ethnomusicology and become a college music professor.