Whether serving their communities, breaking barriers, excelling in athletics, shaping public policy, or preparing to defend our nation, these remarkable young adults are already making an impact that extends far beyond North Alabama.
Eleazer Williams 21, Oakwood University
How did you choose Oakwood University?
Oakwood University has always been the number one option for me growing up. I grew up on the campus of the University, as my dad was the associate pastor of Oakwood University church. Growing up, I was able to watch friends and family matriculate through the university and see how much fun attending an HBCU could be.
How did you decide on a major?
In the spring of 2022, I was a junior in High School at Oakwood Adventist Academy and I was on the Varsity basketball team. That year, in the third round of the 1A AHSAA playoffs, the game was scheduled on the Sabbath and due to our faith we asked AHSAA for the game to be swapped with a later game, and it was denied. From that moment, I said I wanted to work in sports because I didn't want another young person to experience unfair treatment due to their religion or anything else. I am now a Sports Management major at Oakwood University.
What is your favorite memory or memories of Oakwood?
Dynamic Praise is a gospel choir that was founded on campus in 1989 by Owen Simons. We won the HBCU Choir category of How Sweet the Sound, a nationally renowned competition in D.C.
Who is your mentor?
As a Resident Assistant in Holland Hall for two years, I was privileged to work under Dean Kudre Hill. Dean Hill taught me a great deal about professionalism and the importance of remaining authentic in professional environments.
Who inspires you?
Both my parents have a PhD. My mother specifically pushes me every day to be great, and she also is the one that encouraged me to apply for the Redstone Federal Credit Union Scholarship. Without my family I would not be where I am today.
What are your long-term goals?
My long-term goal is to become the General Manager of a professional sports team, preferably in the NBA. I am currently building my experience in the sports industry as a 2026 NBAxHBCU Fellow with the Los Angeles Clippers in Los Angeles, where I am gaining valuable insight into professional sports operations. I am grateful to the Redstone Federal Credit Union Partner Scholarship for helping me complete my Bachelor of Science in Sports Management.
Cameron Wright, United States Naval Academy
Growing up with parents who served as Army officers, how did their example influence your decision to pursue a military career?
My parents showed me that leadership is about taking care of people and serving something bigger than yourself, which inspired me to pursue a military career.
How did attending ASCTE prepare you for the Naval Academy?
ASCTE gave me a strong STEM foundation while teaching me to think critically, solve problems, and succeed in a demanding academic environment, while also helping me become comfortable outside my comfort zone.
What made you realize the Naval Academy was where you belonged?
The Summer Seminar introduced me to the Academy's challenge, structure, and sense of purpose and made me realize this was where I wanted to be.
How have your leadership experiences shaped you?
Serving as a peer counselor and school ambassador taught me that leadership starts with listening, supporting others, and helping people feel valued.
What's the biggest lesson you've learned so far?
Plebe year taught me I'm capable of more than I imagined, but I can't succeed alone. Resilience, humility, and teamwork became essential lessons.
What drew you to becoming a Navy pilot?
Aviation combines challenge, responsibility, and service. I'm excited by the opportunity to continually improve while serving on a mission-driven team.
What impact do you hope to make?
I hope to lead with humility, courage, and compassion while helping those around me grow into the best versions of themselves.
Lyn Brinkley 17
You've taken on several leadership roles. Which has challenged you the most?
Being a coxswain has challenged me more than anything else. It taught me how to use my voice selflessly, speak constructively, and lead people in high-pressure situations.
What made you fall in love with coxing?
When my coach first asked me to cox, I reluctantly agreed. I quickly discovered I loved motivating teammates, using spatial reasoning to steer, and making split-second decisions during races.
You also co-founded a peer mediation group. What has that taught you?
Helping others navigate conflict taught me the importance of listening carefully and approaching disagreements with diplomacy.
Public speaking is another passion. What's been your most memorable experience?
Delivering a speech I wrote about the Constitution in front of veterans and judges stands out the most.
How do your interests in politics, criminal law, and journalism connect?
I believe everyone deserves equal rights and second chances. Using my voice allows me to advocate for people who are often overlooked as I've seen my dad do in his law practice.
How has homeschooling shaped you?
It has given me the freedom to discover my own identity and pursue the things I'm passionate about.
What advice would you give students afraid to try something new?
If something no longer brings you joy, it's okay to step back. Stay open-minded—you never know what opportunity might become your greatest passion.
Tell us about Girls State.
It was one of the most meaningful experiences I've ever had. I learned so much about government while building friendships I'll always treasure.
Linda Mathis 17, Lee High School
What was it like winning Best Actress at the Talullah Awards?
It felt completely surreal. I honestly thought my heart would explode. That moment represented years of hard work, dedication, and love for theatre, making it a dream come true.
When did you know theatre was your passion?
In fifth grade, I was cast in James and the Giant Peach. Even with just one line, standing under the stage lights and hearing the audience's applause made me realize this was what I wanted to do.
Was there a role that changed everything for you?
Playing Dorothy in The Wiz during my freshman year made me realize I wanted to pursue acting professionally. The role challenged me, strengthened my confidence, and taught me resilience despite moments of self-doubt.
What are you most excited about in New York?
Meeting talented students who share my passion for musical theatre will be incredible. Seeing my headshot on a Times Square billboard also feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Who inspires you?
Audra McDonald and Patina Miller inspire me because of their extraordinary talent, stage presence, and the example they've set as successful Black women in theatre.
What are your long-term goals?
I want to become a successful working actress. While Broadway is certainly a dream, my goal is to build a fulfilling career performing and hopefully join a Broadway national tour.
If you could play any role, what would it be?
Asaka in Once on This Island. My school's production was canceled during COVID after I was cast, and I've promised myself that the next time I perform the show, I'll play Asaka.
Camden McCarver 16, Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
When did your interest in physics begin?
I've loved astrophysics since I was about seven years old. ASCTE allowed me to study alongside other students who shared my passion for STEM while preparing me for college-level challenges.
How has ASCTE influenced your future?
It broadened my understanding of STEM and strengthened my desire to pursue physics while giving me valuable insight into college and future research.
What did competing in Model UN teach you?
Attending the Global Citizens United Nations conference in New York gave me the confidence to speak professionally before more than 2,000 people while connecting with students from around the world.
How do you manage such a demanding schedule?
Motivation helped me get started, but discipline and mental toughness have allowed me to balance challenging academics with everything else.
How has Jiu Jitsu shaped you?
It taught me to stay calm in uncomfortable situations, embrace challenges, and grow through adversity.
What has tutoring taught you?
Teaching physics has deepened my appreciation for my own teachers while reminding me how rewarding it is to help others learn.
What's next?
I'll attend Auburn University to study physics, with hopes of becoming either a researcher or finding a career that allows me to continue exploring the questions that inspire me most.
Anahita Maleknia 23, UAB- Director of Finance for Doug Jones
What sparked your interest in law and public service?
My interest began in fourth grade after winning a State of the Union speech competition. Later, classes in World History and AP Government at Randolph reignited that passion and showed me how law can create meaningful change.
What has surprised you most through your work?
Working on Capitol Hill showed me how many people don't realize they have the right to engage directly with their government. I was also surprised by how intimidating the legal system can feel, which deepened my appreciation for nonprofits and attorneys who make the law more accessible.
What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership isn't about being the smartest person in the room. It's about working hard, building relationships, and approaching every experience with a willingness to learn.
Who strengthened your commitment to advocacy?
Tutoring students at the Huntsville Inner City Learning Center changed my life. Spending three years with the same group of girls reinforced how important mentorship is. My brother always said everyone deserves to know someone believes in them, and I carry that lesson with me.
How do you manage your responsibilities?
I stay grounded through gratitude, healthy habits, and daily exercise. Viewing every opportunity as a privilege helps me maintain perspective, even during demanding seasons.
What impact do you hope to make?
I hope to bring people together during a time when our country often feels divided. I'm also passionate about encouraging more Iranian Americans to become active in local, state, and national government.
Simon Walker 20, Auburn University
When did you realize basketball could become a serious path?
In middle school, I realized basketball could really be a path for me. Competing nationally against top players gave me confidence that I could play at the next level.
What does it mean to represent Huntsville at Auburn University?
It's an incredible honor. I've grown up around Auburn fans, so wearing that jersey means representing my hometown and everyone who has supported me. Playing in Huntsville this season in front of family and friends will make it even more special.
What has been the biggest adjustment to SEC basketball?
The physicality was definitely an adjustment, especially competing against older players. I've also learned the importance of resilience. As an underclassman, you have to trust your work, stay patient, and continue improving regardless of your role.
Who has influenced your journey the most?
My dad. As a former player, he's been there every step of the way from working on my game, to talking strategy, or simply navigating the highs and lows of basketball.
What's is your favorite Auburn memory?
My first game against Jackson State. After coming back from injury, I was just grateful to be on the court. Having such a strong shooting performance made the moment unforgettable.
How do you balance basketball with everything else?
Balance is important. Basketball is my priority, but I don't let it define my entire life. School and other interests help keep me grounded and focused.
What are your goals this season?
My biggest goal is helping Auburn win. I want to earn a larger role, compete in March Madness, and continue proving myself while contributing however I can.
Salaam Natsar 22, University of Alabama Huntsville
What did it mean to become Columbia High School's first U.S. Presidential Scholars Program nominee?
It was an incredible honor. More than anything, it showed that students' potential isn't defined by their socioeconomic background and helped establish a new standard for what's possible.
How did you respond when a vision impairment changed your plans to join the military?
At first, I was heartbroken. Military service had always been part of my plan to serve my country and further my education. With the support of my family and mentors through the Aum Foundation, I realized there are many different ways to make a meaningful impact. I learned that If you're willing to adapt, unexpected opportunities will appear.
How did you balance working full-time while earning your associate degree?
Time management was everything. I planned my evenings and lunch breaks around coursework and stayed committed to that routine.
What excites you most about your NASA internship?
Beyond the technical experience, I'm excited to learn how different teams contribute to NASA's mission. Working with the Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer will also give me valuable insight into leadership and public service.
Why is your work with the National Federation of the Blind important?
The organization has given me a community where people are valued for their abilities, not defined by misconceptions. I'm grateful for the opportunity to advocate for greater accessibility while supporting others.
Who has been your biggest influence?
My mom and grandfather. They instilled a love of learning, curiosity, and resilience that continues to shape every opportunity I've pursued. I also credit The Aum Foundation for connecting me with mentors who helped shape both my personal and professional growth. Through Aum, I met Ambrosia Patterson, who
encouraged my interest in federal service and has remained a close mentor and friend, even after I completed the program.
What are your long-term goals?
As I study cybersecurity engineering at UAH, I hope to combine technology with advocacy. I'm passionate about strengthening technology access in underserved communities, particularly across the South, so that innovation becomes a bridge to opportunity rather than another barrier.
Leadership isn't about being the smartest person in the room. It's about working hard, building relationships, and approaching every experience with a willingness to learn.