Bison Forward captures the essence of what it means to be part of the Howard University alumni family, one community, connected through shared heritage and empowered to drive meaningful impact globally. It reflects the unity of generations of Bison who carry Howard’s mission forward with pride, purpose, and service.

Together, we stand as One Howard united by legacy, inspired by excellence, and driven to uplift communities and open pathways for those who follow. Bison Forward is more than a theme; it is a call to action that affirms our collective responsibility and reminds us that our shared strength multiplies our impact.

Core Priorities

  • Celebrate the shared experiences and traditions that define the Bison identity.

  • Foster connection among alumni across eras, schools, and regions.

  • Strengthen the bond between alumni, students, and the university.

Community Through Legacy

  • Leverage alumni relationships, community organizations, and corporate partnerships to expand access to professional, personal, and life-enhancing resources for alumni and students.

  • Build intentional pathways to career development, leadership opportunities, wellness, and financial empowerment across every stage of the Bison journey.

  • Ensure equitable access by creating inclusive, connected experiences that support Bison wherever they are—locally, nationally, and globally.

 

Access Through Connection

  • Mobilize the Bison community for collective action through service, philanthropy, and advocacy that advances Howard University’s mission.

  • Strengthen operational excellence by refining governance, streamlining processes, and aligning resources to support effective alumni engagement.

  • Measure, communicate, and celebrate outcomes to ensure alumni involvement delivers meaningful, transparent, and sustainable impact.

Impact Through Engagement

Why Kelli?

Kelli L. Jones  is a servant leader, strategist, and proud Howard University alumna running for President of the Howard University Alumni Association with a clear vision for this moment:

Bison Forward. One Howard. Bound by Legacy, Driven by Impact.

Kelli currently serves as Vice President of Membership and Engagement for HUAA, where she focuses on strengthening alumni connection while advancing policies that improve governance, accountability, and operational effectiveness. In this role, she has also helped support the financial sustainability of HUAA initiatives by helping raise more than $15,000 to support alumni programming and operations. She also serves as Co-Organizer of Region V’s “Bison in the South” initiative and served as 2024 100th Homecoming Co-Chair.

Previously, Kelli served as President of the Howard University Alumni Club of Dallas–Fort Worth, where she led one of the most active alumni communities. She helped raise and distribute $25,000 in scholarships and hosted one of the largest HBCU college fairs in the DFW metroplex.

For her efforts she received 2023 HUAA President’s Award and was named 2024 Club President of the Year by the Department of Alumni Relations.

Beyond HUAA, Kelli serves as Co-Founder and Chief Operating & Visionary Officer of The HBCU Project Foundation, where she leads strategy, partnerships, and operations. Through this work, she has sustained partnerships and resources responsibly to create lasting impact for students and families.

A Baton Rouge native, Kelli was an active member of the Howard Gospel Choir and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Omega Alpha Omega Chapter, continuing her lifelong commitment to service and leadership.

Kelli believes the strength of the Howard alumni community lies in our shared legacy, responsible advocacy, and our collective ability to move Bison Forward—together, as One Howard.

HUAA Election Voting Period:

March 23 - April 10, 2026

Voting Instructions

  • “ Kelli doesn’t just show up, she builds. She understands the power of the Howard network and is incredibly intentional about creating opportunities that pour into both alumni and current students. Whether it’s fostering meaningful connections, supporting professional growth, or strengthening community, she leads with purpose.”

    —Tamra Bryd, B.A. 2005

  • “I have had the opportunity to see Kelli’s leadership and dedication to the Howard alumni community here in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, firsthand. Since meeting her, I have seen her working at the grass roots level with fellow HU Alumni and jointly with other local HBCUs. Her vision and commitment to strengthening connections among alumni and creating meaningful opportunities for engagement truly reflects the spirit of Howard.”

    —Albert Brunson, B.Arch. 1975/1976

  • “ Working alongside Kelli Jones on regional and Homecoming events has shown me firsthand the professionalism and passion she brings to this community. She is intentional about creating spaces where Bison can connect, fellowship, and build scholarship opportunities for future Howard students. Kelli truly cares, and I wholeheartedly support her for HUAA President.”

    —Steve Owens, B.A. 2002

  • "“I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the respected leadership and dedication of Kelli and her commitment to the Howard alumni community. We worked together as HU Alumni Club Presidents from Region V to establish and successfully implement Bison in the South. Kelli utilized her project management skills to align the relevant partnerships and organize the standing meetings to accomplish our goals and keep all accountable and on task. Her commitment to strengthening connections among alumni and creating meaningful opportunities for engagement truly reflects the spirit of Howard. Kelli leads with purpose, integrity, and a clear vision for moving our alumni community forward. I proudly support her as the BEST candidate for HUAA President.”

    -Erika Gentry, B.S. 1992

Connect with Kelli