Mr./Ms. Alumni Contest

Akinjide (Akin) Kayode ‘12

Current Residence: Lillington, North Carolina

Favorite Quote: “Job’s not finished”- Kobe Bryant

Local Alumni Chapter Affiliation: Member-at-Large

Academic Preparation: Bachelor of Science -Computer Science (2012) Fayetteville State University

Current Employer: McDonalds Corporation

Professional, Civic, Community Affiliations: Salvation Army, Ronald McDonald House, Fisher House

Awards & Recognitions: FSU Honor Roll of Donors (FY23)

Hobbies or Interests: Traveling and spending time with family across the East Coast.

Contestant Statement:

As an alumnus of Fayetteville State University, I am honored to step forward as a candidate for the prestigious title of Mr. FSU 2024-2025. Allow me to share my reasons for entering this contest and my vision for making a difference as an ambassador for our beloved institution:

Legacy and Gratitude: FSU has been my second home—a place where I forged lifelong friendships, discovered my passions, and received an exceptional education. As Mr. FSU, I aim to honor the legacy of those who came before us, expressing my deep gratitude for the transformative experiences FSU provided.

Unity and Connection: FSU campus was more than a home away from home; it’s a reunion of hearts and memories. It brings together alumni, students, faculty, and staff, bridging generations. My goal is to foster unity, creating bridges across time and backgrounds. Let’s celebrate our shared memories and aspirations.

Advocacy and Empowerment: As an ambassador, I will advocate for alumni engagement. I believe in amplifying our voices, ensuring their wants are heard and met. Let’s enhance alumni support services, promote mental health awareness, and create a nurturing environment for giving back

Community Engagement: FSU isn’t just within our campus boundaries; it extends to the broader Fayetteville community. I envision collaborative initiatives—service projects, mentorship programs, and partnerships—that benefit both our students and the local community.
Spirit and Pride: The Bronco spirit runs deep. Whether it is cheering at athletic events, participating in traditions, or supporting our arts, we bleed blue and white. I wear our colors with pride, encouraging others to do the same. Let’s ignite the Bronco flame!

In summary, I aspire to continue being a bridge builder, a voice for positive change, and a beacon of Bronco pride. Together, let us create a vibrant legacy—one that echoes through the years and inspires generations to come.

Tammy Lane ‘94

Current Residence: Charlotte, North Carolina

Favorite Quote: “Service to others is the rent you pay for the room here on earth.” Muhammad Ali

Local Alumni Chapter Affiliation: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Alumni Chapter -Life Member

Academic Preparation: Bachelor of Science -Marketing Education (1994) Fayetteville State University

Master of Business Administration (2009)
DeVry University -Keller Graduate School of Management

Current Employer: Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District – Career Educator Spectrum Enterprise Division- Knowledge Management Trainer

Professional , Civic, Community Affiliations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®-Initiated in Delta Alpha Chapter and presently a member of Rho Psi Omega Chapter, Women in Communications (WICT) Association, Jonahville AME Zion Church, Christian Education Co-Director

Awards & Recognitions: FSUNAA Life Member, Former member of the FSU Marching Broncos Xpress , Cheerleading Squad and former President of the Collegiate DECA Chapter

Hobbies or Interests: In addition to traveling and family time, personal interests are centered around the work of the church, service projects through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and the activities and events of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Alumni Chapter.

Contestant Statement:

As a young impressionable student, entering the campus of FSU in 1998 , I was the first in my family to graduate high school and attend college. I had no guidance to pull from within my family, and coming from a single -parent home, resources were often limited. There were alumni who gave back to FSU with their time, talents, and finances, which created possibilities for me to have experiences that would not have been afforded otherwise. FSU played a significant part in molding me into the successful woman I am today , and as a former high school teacher, I would capitalize on every opportunity to share my experiences and be an ambassador of the university in my classroom. As a mother of a FSU graduate, I looked for moments to share with other parents the benefits and values of FSU available to their high school -aged students. Because I am a product of what great alumni relations can do for a student. I want to do the work as Ms. FSU Alumni 2024-25 and let my Bronco Pride be seen in the work I will do. As an alum, I am determined that my actions, win or lose in this contest for Ms. FSU, will be demonstrated in continuing to show my pride for FSU by connecting, promoting and giving back to Fayetteville State University.