2026 Achievement Award Honorees

Michelle Whited, Associate Dean of Students at Illinois State University, brings over 30 years of experience in Student Affairs, specializing in student activities, leadership development, and providing care and support to students. She has maintained a longstanding commitment to professional service and leadership within the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA). Her contributions include serving as National Volunteer Coordinator, 2016 National Convention Chairperson, Illiana and Mid-America Regional Coordinator, and Education Advisory Group Chairperson. In recognition of her impact, she has received the Mid-America Region Janet Carl Smith Award and has been inducted into the Mid-America Hall of Fame. 

If you would like to make a donation to the NACA Foundation in Michelle's honor, you can do so here.

Prior to his retirement in August of 2022, Steve Ransom served as the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students at Prairie View A&M University for 10 years. Specializing in student development and engagement, as well as providing care and support to students, Steve’s commitment to the field of Campus Activities spans 30 years. For over 20 years Steve has supported NACA in its mission. His contributions include serving as Chair for the NACA Board of Directors, member of the Foundation Board of Trustees, and Foundation Donor to this day. During his tenure as Board of Directors Chair, Steve left an indelible mark on the Association through the creation of the Leadership Fellows program.  

The Great DuBois’ Circus variety show is a fast-paced, hilarious, all ages, performance showcasing incredible feats of juggling, hula hoops, unicycle, aerial, circus stunts, contortion, and audience interaction. Simply put… The most unique two person Circus show you will ever see! Recently featured in Hugh Jackman's hit movie “The Greatest Showman”, The Great DuBois have quite the list of credits. They include the Tony Award winning “Pippin” on Broadway, “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Late Night with David Letterman”, Britney Spears World Circus Tour, and the movie “Burlesque” to Highlight a few.  

The award-winning combination of Michael and Viktoria have 6 generations of Circus Performing between them, their very own Circus Tent, and have performed countless shows at Theaters, Universities, High end Venues, and Fairs and Festivals all over the world. 

Maia Almeida is currently in her third year as the Coordinator for Student Programs in the Center for Student Engagement at Bridgewater State University, where she leads initiatives that foster student engagement and inclusion. She earned her master’s degree from Northeastern University while completing two years of service with AmeriCorps Mass Promise Fellowship, focusing on community development and youth college and career prep. She found her love for student affairs and higher education while involved at Framingham State University, where she received her undergrad. Known for her collaborative leadership and commitment to mentorship, Maia has revitalized student programming at BSU, guiding students to become confident leaders and creating a vibrant campus community. 

Telvin James is the Assistant Director of Student Engagement and Leadership and an Adjunct Instructor teaching UNIV 100 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Telvin is a native of Texarkana, TX. He is a two-time graduate, receiving his bachelor's degree from Henderson State University (Arkadelphia, AR), and master’s degree in Higher Education: Administration from Texas A&M-Commerce, now known as East Texas A&M University (Commerce, TX). Telvin is well-versed in higher education with experiences in admissions and student affairs. He is fully committed to student success and building a firm foundation of engagement on campus. Telvin’s compassion and commitment to help college students is the epitome of his character. Telvin was recognized with the C. Shaw Smith New Professional Award in 2024. Telvin is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.  

Serving as the University of Florida’s Associate Director for Student Government Advising & Operations, Jerome Scott works alongside student leaders to strengthen shared governance and amplify student voices. He has dedicated his career to developing principled leaders, drawing on his experience advising, training, and supporting students at the University of South Carolina, Florida International University, and Western Illinois University. His work reflects a commitment to grace and decorum, fostering environments where students lead with confidence and intention. Guided by a philosophy of striving for excellence, Jerome empowers students to create meaningful impact on their campus and beyond. 

Noche de Cultura was designed as an evening of celebration, community, and entertainment that evolved into a deeply meaningful cultural experience for attendees and organizers alike. The goal was to evoke the warmth and connection of a backyard family gathering—an atmosphere many Latin individuals deeply resonate with—while showcasing the diversity, depth, and vibrancy of Latin cultures across regions. Through intentional programming choices, attendees learned about the unique traditions, foods, and languages from Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, demonstrating that “Latine” is not a monolith but a rich tapestry of identities. 

Kyonna Henry is from Woodbridge, Virginia holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Education ’09 and a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration ‘12 both from Old Dominion University in Virginia.

Kyonna works as the Director of Student Life and Engagement at University of South Florida at St. Petersburg in St. Petersburg, FL. There she provides strategic leadership and direction in the following areas: Commuter and Off Campus Housing, Multicultural Affairs, Leadership and Student Organizations, The Crow’s Nest student newspaper, Harborside Activities Board, event response team and the Mascot program, and leads a team of 7.

In her community she is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. since November 2006. She currently serves as the President for the ODU Black Alumni Chapter but most of all she loves to prepare her 8 year old daughter for a life well lived as a powerful and strong black girl.

Her favorite quote to live by is from Margaret Mead “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”