Benedict College 40 Under 40
The Benedict College “Forty Under 40” honors exceptional alumni who embody the College’s mission and values through their professional excellence, leadership, and community impact. Through their accomplishments, these individuals exemplify the spirit of #TheBESTofBC while serving as change agents and role models for current students and fellow alumni. This prestigious recognition celebrates graduates who, at the age 40 or younger, are making significant strides in their careers while utilizing their education to drive meaningful transformation in their communities and beyond. These “Forty Under 40” honorees have demonstrated outstanding achievements and leadership across a wide range of industries and disciplines, including, but not limited to, science, technology, mathematics, business administration, entrepreneurship, the arts, education, and human services. Benedict College intends for this initiative to ignite a deep sense of institutional pride and inspire others to support and advance the mission of the College actively.
Congratulations to the Inaugural Class of the Benedict College "Forty Under 40"
Nomination Process
Nominations can be submitted by anyone (alumni, faculty, staff, students, or members of the community). All nominations must be submitted using the official online nomination form. Self-nominations will not be accepted.
Submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of Benedict College alumni, faculty, and staff. Note: The nominee must be informed of the “40 Under 40” application submission.
Eligibility
- Must be a graduate or alum (former student with a minimum of one semester completed) of Benedict College.
- Must be under the age of forty (40) as of the nomination deadline.
- A demonstrated life-long commitment to the core values and mission of Benedict College.
Evaluation Categories
- Professional Achievement
• Demonstrated excellence and leadership in their profession.
• Notable career accomplishments, innovations, or recognitions.
• Advancement or impact within their profession. - Community Engagement & Service
• Active involvement in community service, advocacy, or nonprofit work.
• Demonstrated commitment to uplifting underserved or marginalized communities.
• Leadership in civic or volunteer initiatives. - Leadership & Influence
• Recognized as a leader or role model in their profession and/or community.
• Mentorship of others, especially students or young professionals.
• Influence through public speaking, writing, or thought leadership. - Innovation & Impact
• Creative or entrepreneurial contributions that have made a measurable impact.
• Use of technology, art, or policy to drive change or solve problems. - Connection to Benedict College (Bonus Category)
• Continued engagement with Benedict College (e.g., mentoring, donations, speaking engagements).
• Promotion of Benedict College and advocacy for the institution and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
• A member of the Benedict College National Alumni Association.
• History of financial giving to Benedict College.
Nomination Requirements
- Completed online nomination form.
- Resume or CV of the nominee with a photograph.
Deadline
The deadline for nominations is September 2, 2025.
For questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Walletta Moore-Johnson at 803.705.4606 or walletta.johnson@benedict.edu.
Make sure your nominee...
- is a graduate or alum of Benedict College
- is under the age of 40 as of the nomination deadline
- has demonstrated a life-long commitment to the core values and mission of Benedict College
Important Dates
- August 11, 2025 Nomination period opens
- September 2, 2025 Nomination period ends
- September 4, 2025 Committee meeting
- September 8-12, 2025 | Honoree confirmations
- September 15, 2025 | Inaugural "40 Under 40" Class Announcement
- November 2, 2025 | "40 Under 40" Awards Brunch
“40 Under 40” Committee
The committee is comprised of select Benedict College administrators and alumni, along with “Special Advisors,” academic deans.
Committee Members
Ms. Mya Schofield '22
Co-Chair
Dr. Walletta Johnson '00
Co-Chair
Director of Development
Dr. Carla Brabham '98
Alumnus
Mr. Rod Casey '05
BCNAA President
Mr. Brian Love
Director of Career Services
Mr. Calleb Obumba '04
Alumnus
Dr. Kimberly Singletary
Honors Program Director
Ms. Elizabeth Strong '10
Alumnus
Mr. Kortney Grant '06
Alumnus
Ms. Ada Brown Belton '77
Assistant Vice President, Alumni Relations & Advancement Services,
Ex-Officio
Mrs. Leandra Hayes-Burgess
Vice President, Institutional Advancement, Ex-Officio
Special Advisors
Dr. Tracy Dunn
Dean, School of Business & Entrepreneurship
Dr. Leon Geter
Dean, School of Communication, Art & Social Science
Dr. Akilah Carter-Francique
Dean, School of Education, Health & Human Services
Dr. Jessica Furrer
Dean, School of Science and Engineering
“40 Under 40” Member Requirements
As a member of the “40 Under 40,” individuals will be required to raise funds in support of the initiative. Members will be provided five (5) tickets to the “40 Under 40” Brunch.
Goal
$40,000
Member Cost
$1,500
Pay Reporting
$750 - September 30, 2025
$750 - October 15, 2025
Membership Benefits
“40 Under 40” members will receive the following benefits:
- Induction into the Inaugural Class
- Feature on the “40 Under 40” website
- Seat on the “40 Under 40” float during the Homecoming parade
- Feature on the jumbotron during the Homecoming football game
- 1-year membership in the Benedict College National Alumni Association
- Reserved seating at the Benedict College Alumni Awards & State of the College Luncheon