Our members participate in volunteer events and take part in a wide range of community service initiatives. Upon graduation, they apply the interpersonal skills they’ve acquired to start businesses, pursue promotions, and more, using what they have learned to Build Leaders Who Make a Better World.
Check out the headlines made by NSLS members who used their leadership skills to level up in their careers, earn outstanding academic honors, and help make a positive impact on their communities this month.
Aviation Safety Advocate Honored with Top University Award
Fitzgerald Ihekwoaba, a graduate student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide, received the Embry‑Riddle College of Aviation Worldwide Spirit Award in recognition of his commitment to leadership and service. With more than 13 years of experience as a Navy aviation mechanic, Ihekwoaba turned a personal tragedy (a fatal Marine Corps helicopter crash) into motivation to improve aviation safety and mentor future leaders in the field.
On campus, he has participated in numerous organizations, including Eagles in Service and the C.A.R.E.E.R Ready Club. His involvement also spans global chapters of the Society of American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), highlighting his dedication to leadership, ethics, and service.
Read More Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University > >
Best-Selling Author and Advocate Featured by School as She Pursues Doctorate
A poet, playwright, entrepreneur, and best-selling author, Michelle Courtney Berry continues to expand her legacy of leadership as she pursues her doctorate at Louisiana State University - Shreveport. Her career spans three books, four plays, and hundreds of public speaking engagements, including opening for the legendary Maya Angelou.
Berry has received widespread recognition for her impact as a writer and speaker, including being named one of the Top 20 Empowering Women in the United States by Womenpreneur in 2024, a list that includes Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Janet Yellen, and Melinda Gates.
With a mission rooted in wellness, authenticity, and purpose, Berry’s leadership journey reflects her commitment to helping others find their voice and live with confidence.
Read Morefrom Louisiana State University - Shreveport >>
Healthcare Executive Celebrated for 30 Years of Transformational Leadership
For more than three decades, Carmen M. Elliott, Capella University, has worked to make healthcare more equitable and accessible. As executive director of the Physical Therapy Fund at the American Physical Therapy Association, she provides strategic guidance and mentorship to her team while ensuring financial sustainability for vital community programs.
In addition to her executive role, Elliott serves as the association’s vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion, continuing her lifelong mission to create opportunities and eliminate barriers to care. Among her many accomplishments, she successfully advocated for policy changes that allowed millions of employees across the U.S. to access physical therapy services in their local communities.
Elliott is currently pursuing a Doctor of Human Services in Organizational Leadership at Capella University, where she has repeatedly earned recognition on the President’s List. Her academic and professional achievements are a testament to her compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to service.
Read More from Marquis Who’s Who >>
Respiratory Care Student Makes Program History with Prestigious Grant
Tyra Williams, a respiratory care student at St. Philip’s College, has made history by becoming the first recipient to earn the prestigious Respiratory Care Foundation of Texas (RCFT) grant two years in a row. Williams was recognized during the RCFT Celebration Dinner, where she received a $4,500 grant for her research on Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Williams’ journey into respiratory care was deeply personal. Inspired by her son’s struggle with asthma and the critical care he received from respiratory therapists, she chose to pursue a career where she could make a tangible difference in patients’ lives.
Williams plans to graduate this fall and continue her work in respiratory care, applying her knowledge, leadership skills, and dedication to patient advocacy to improve outcomes in her community and beyond.
Read More from St. Philip’s College >>
Human Resources Executive Recognized Among Top 40 Under Forty
Whitley Werts, Chief Human Resources Officer at the Rhode Island Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation, has been honored by Providence Business News in its 2025 “40 Under Forty” list.
The award recognizes her outstanding achievements in HR leadership and her commitment to fostering inclusive, growth-oriented workplaces. In her feature, Werts, who is from the Southern New Hampshire University chapter, proudly displays her NSLS graduation cord, exemplifying her dedication to leadership development.
Werts’ recognition reflects her drive to lead with integrity and compassion while empowering others to reach their full potential.
Read More from Providence Business News >>
Other NSLS Members Receiving Recognition this month:
Linzee Leal, Texas Lutheran University, a former softball standout, has been recognized as a Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Woman of the Year finalist for her achievements on and off the field. Full Story >>
Kirk West, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide, a Navy veteran and aviation student has maintained a 4.0 GPA and aims to create aviation opportunities for underrepresented youth. Full Story >>
Tiara A. Collins, Western Governors University, a clinical nurse manager at the University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, was featured for leadership in behavioral health initiatives and team development. Full Story >>
Kevin D. Ames, American Public University System, an Army veteran, was recognized for his expertise in program management, civic service, and leadership. Full Story >>
Damella Abbott, University of Phoenix, a senior accounting technician with over 20 years’ experience in higher education, was honored for advancing inclusion and fostering a welcoming environment for students. Full Story >>
Brakelle Westphal, Metropolitan State University of Denver, was named returning sports management intern for the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) and praised for her leadership and mentorship. Full Story >>
