2025 African American Mayors Association (AAMA) Annual Conference

The 2025 African American Mayors Association (AAMA) Annual Conference, held in Washington, D.C. from April 16–18, brought together a dynamic network of city leaders, policy experts, and future changemakers for three days of collaboration, strategy, and inspiration.

This year, the Center for Excellence in Public/Government Service was proud to collaborate with AAMA to support the attendance of two A.T.I. Scholars, emerging leaders who have demonstrated a strong commitment to public service and state-level government. In total, three A.T.I. Scholars participated in the conference, representing Fisk University, Hampton University, and Southern University and A&M College.

During the conference, the scholars engaged in specialized training sessions on public service and civic engagement, connected with fellow students pursuing similar career pathways, and participated in high-impact networking opportunities with local and national government leaders.

A standout moment came when Saige Kenner, one of the A.T.I. Scholars, was honored as a recipient of the 2025 Kevin Johnson Presidential Scholars Award. This prestigious scholarship supports undergraduate students majoring in fields such as policy, governance, technology, political science, and healthcare, with the goal of empowering the next generation of leaders committed to innovation and inclusive governance.

Additionally, the Program Manager for the Center for Excellence in Public/Government Service was in attendance and successfully strengthened relationships with city mayors from across the nation. These connections will help expand mentorship, internship, and professional development opportunities for students connected to the AUCC–Center for Excellence in Public/Government Service.

This collaboration with AAMA underscores the Center’s mission to cultivate a pipeline of diverse, civic-minded leaders ready to make a meaningful impact in government and public policy.