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Meet our GAAME Ambassadors


 

Austin Baker

Austin Baker
(he/him/his)

Junior
Major: Management, Information Systems
Hometown: Columbus, GA

Hobbies: Soccer, gaming, watching anime

Campus involvement: Black Male Leadership Society (BMLS), College Factory, and National
Association of Black Accountants (NABA)


Reason for attending UGA:  All of my aunts and uncles attended UGA. Growing up I spent many
weekends in Athens. So once I knew I wanted a business related degree, Terry and UGA was at the top of my list.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Scholar:  When I first arrived on campus, a lot of guys I met were GAAME Scholars. They introduced me to their friends that they met on GAAME weekend and I was convinced to join.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador: I appreciated the different point of view GAAME has given me about college and my professional career. I wanted to be a part of the platform that encouraged others and spread the purpose of GAAME.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: One benefit of GAAME is the network of current and past students that have participated and are willing to help others. I have been able to talk to other males that have passed the coursework I am currently taking.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: Watching the UGA vs Notre Dame football game and making it on the jumbotron.

 

 

Comer

Kaleb Comer
(he/him/his)
Senior
Major: Human Development and Family Science

Minor: Public Health
Hometown: Marietta, GA

Hobbies: Working out, interior design, socializing

Campus involvement: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., UGA Cheerleading, UGA African Student Union

Reason for attending UGA: I’ve wanted to cheer at the University of Georgia ever since I started the sport when I was younger, so when I was offered the opportunity I grabbed it.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Scholar:  I want to be able to take my experiences as a black male here and use them to help ease the transition for others that come after me.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador: I have a passion for working with the next generation of Black male leaders.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: You get to invest in your own community by helping the Black men on this campus excel and preparing them to succeed from a genuine standpoint.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: The UGA vs. Notre Dame game in 2019. I ran out onto the field for pregame and it was the craziest environment I’ve ever been in, much less cheered in!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nick Jackson

Nick Jackson
(he/him/his)

Junior
Major: Computer Science
Hometown: Macon, GA

Hobbies: Spend time with friends, play and listen to music, talk about anything LGBTQ+

Campus involvement: National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), TRiO STEM-H, Phi Mu Alpha

Reason for attending UGA:  UGA is one of the best schools for music in the state of Georgia, and as an incoming freshman I was an intended Music Performance major. I also admired the prestige of the school and rigor of its classes. And many people also don't know I chose UGA because of its dining halls--I couldn't see myself attending a school for four years with a bad cafeteria, and UGA passed the vibe check.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Scholar:  It was just a gut feeling. I had heard of the program from BMLS my freshman year but finally decided to join out of nowhere during my sophomore year.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador: I recognized how much the program made an impact on my life and I wanted to give back to the program and be a representative for recruitment. If GAAME could make such a positive impact on me, it could also make a positive impact for other Black males on campus.

Advice to other African American/Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: There are only a certain number of organizations for Black students, and an even less number for black males specifically. These programs are made for students like me, so why not join them? I've always said this since freshman year. There aren't enough black students on campus for us not to take advantage of the resources that UGA has for
black students.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: I don't have a specific favorite UGA experience. I just appreciate the fact that UGA has an environment allows and supports me to be myself and to live in my truth. An older high school friend always said to me, "Stay true to yourself always," but I never fully understood what that meant until I came to UGA.

Nwogu

Kevin Nwogu
(he/him/his)

Senior
Major: Business Management
Minor: Leadership in Student Affairs
Hometown: Stone Mountain, GA

Hobbies: Kickboxing, bike riding, going on runs

Campus involvement: Student Alumni Council, UGA Mentor Program, GAAME

Reason for attending UGA: Because of the multitude of opportunities along with the welcoming and spirited community I experienced before even the first day of classes. 

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: I attended the GAAME Weekend as a high school student and wanted to stay engaged with the resources and people I bet during that amazing weekend.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  The amazing opportunities and foundation the program gave me and I wanted to pay it forward to the incoming Black males. The program not only welcomes students like me, but it makes sure that we stay.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: GAAME is a community of brothers who will support you, advocate for you, and help you navigate these next years of college. Lean into others. You can’t do college alone. The community you’ll leave college with will be your greatest asset.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: Attending LSAMP Summer Bridge the summer before my freshman year in 2018. I got to spend the summer in Myers Hall with about 15 other incoming students and we had the time of our lives.

 

 

Okanume

Eric Okanume
(he/him/his)

Junior
Major: Biological Sciences, Pre-Med/MBA
Minor: Biology
Certificate: Entrepreneurship
Hometown: Hiram, GA

Hobbies: Driving, traveling, car spotting

Campus involvement: Peach State LSAMP, Honors College, University Housing, UGA Marketing & Branding Department, Vaccine Ambassador

Reason for attending UGA: Deciding where to attend college is an exceptionally difficult task; one which would determine where I would invest two very valuable resources: time and money. Among hundreds of competitive universities throughout the country, UGA stood out to me as a modern, well-established, and ever-growing research institution capable of providing me with the resources I needed to achieve my full academic potential. Additionally, programs such as GAAME and LSAMP ensured that I would have the support and sense of community necessary for me to succeed beyond the classroom.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: As an incoming freshman, I found myself in a completely new environment. The high academic status I had worked so hard to achieve as a well involved student was wiped clean, and I had to start over at a much larger, and much more competitive and challenging institution. I desperately looked for ways to become as prepared as possible for what was ahead, and the possible challenges that would come with it. I looked for an introduction to the competitive academic culture at the university, and what would be expected of me in the classroom. I looked for ways to become familiarized with the campus, which can be considered a city of its own. I also hoped to develop relationships ahead of the academic year, so that I could have the support and sense of community necessary for success at the university. I can say with confidence that the GAAME weekend exceeded all of my expectations, and helped me in ways that I could not have imagined before. After the program, I was not only familiar with the campus, the academic rigor, and the many opportunities offered at the University of Georgia, but I also started my academic journey at the university with fellow Black males and an entire department that I could count on for support in this new environment. I strive to pass on that sense of community and belonging while providing incoming students with the same support and encouragement that was provided to me.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I became a GAAME ambassador to providing incoming students with the same support and encouragement that was provided to me my freshman year.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: Having a support network is of the utmost importance to succeed in and out of the classroom. GAAME will provide you with the sense of community and resources necessary for you to build and/or enhance your support network. The individuals in the program will be your friends, teachers, and mentors while encouraging and cheering you on throughout your time at UGA.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: Living at Creswell Hall.

Deion Peoples

Deion Peoples
(he/him/his)
Senior

Major: Management
Hometown: Jonesboro, GA

Hobbies: Rapping, going to the movies, writing

Campus involvement: University Housing, Black Male Leadership Society, D.O.P.E. Artist Association

Reason for attending UGA: Attending GAAME Weekend and seeing that UGA had an active and supporting Black community on campus was what influenced my decision to come to UGA the most. Aside that, the institution was not that far from home and had a great academic reputation.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: I needed the support coming from a predominantly Black area; this collegiate experience was very new to me. Also, the people I might during GAAME Weekend were amazing and very supportive.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  After experiencing firsthand and how GAAME could impact someone's decision to attend the University and their experience while here, I was elated to become a GAAME Ambassador.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: With all the competition to get involved, GAAME is a great place to start and gain some valuable guidance along the way. The GAAME Scholar program is great for keeping you accountable and also offering resources when you need help. The GAAME community is strong and an overall great group of distinguished Black men on campus!

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: Performing at Myers Quad for an event in collaboration with University Union is one of the most memorable experiences I have had thus far.

 

 

Raglin

Jaquarius Raglin
(he/him/his)

Senior
Major: Biology & Health Promotion
Minor: African American Studies
Hometown: Thomaston, GA

Hobbies: Working out, cooking, traveling

Campus involvement: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Student Alumni Council, Minority Student Science Association, Peach State LSAMP, Georgia Daze

Reason for attending UGA: I chose to attend UGA to challenge myself and find a new community. Since UGA is 2 hours away from home, I thought that this would be a great place to make new connections and build a foundation for the future.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: I was inspired to engage with the program to find a Black male support system. UGA's Black male population is very low, and I thought that this would be a great way to make new bonds.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I became an ambassador to make sure that Black males who came through UGA would have a support system of other Black men to guide them through their collegiate experience.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: Take heed of all resources that are presented to you; you never know who you may meet along the way.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: UGA vs. Notre Dame night game Sept. 2019

 

 

William Redding

William Redding
(he/him/his)

Junior
Major: Linguistics
Hometown: Cordele, GA

Hobbies: Anything music related, skating, trying new foods

Campus involvement: Georgia Daze, Office of the Dean of Students' Program Ambassador, Dawg Camp, African Student Union

Reason for attending UGA: UGA was not my first choice, however, I decided to attend UGA because I knew that no matter what field I went into, UGA would be the school that could support me in all my endeavors.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: I think service to others is a vital aspect of growth and I want to give back especially to as many people who look like me as possible. I heard about GAAME during my second semester and knew that it was something that I had to be a part of!

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I became a GAAME Ambassador in order to meet new people, make connections, and engage with my community!

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: GAAME is filled with people that look just like you. It's a space where you can see yourself in others and at a PWI where seldom the classes you take will show that it is important to make sure that you do a space you can go to for that.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: My favorite moment at UGA by far was Spring 2020 when there was a DJ playing music in the Snelling Dining Common. I was with all of my friends and we were just eating good food, listening to good music and all in all just having a good time.

 

 

Samaye

Obamide Samaye
(he/him/his)

Junior
Major: Economics AB
Minor: Law, Ethics & Philosophy ;
Public Policy & Management
Hometown: Atlanta, GA

Hobbies: Making music, playing video games, playing soccer

Campus involvement: University Housing, Dawg Camp, NavCompass, Digital Dawgs

Reason for attending UGA: I decided to attend UGA because it was meant for me. UGA has a great community and has so many resources that are readily available for people like me. UGA felt like home when I stepped on campus.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: The GAAME Ambassadors who were present when I went to GAAME Weekend inspired me to engage with the GAAME program. They provide me with so much wisdom and guidance. They were some of the first people from UGA that I interacted with and helped me to feel comfortable on campus.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I became a GAAME Ambassador because I wanted to help incoming Black first-year men transition better on campus and be an asset to their success.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: They should get involved because it will not only provide you with resources, GAAME will provide you with a community/support system that is amazing.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: The Notre Dame vs UGA game...best UGA experience hands down.

Kydae Scott

Kydae Scott
(he/him/his)

Sophomore
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Columbus, GA

Hobbies: Painting/drawing, playing instruments, singing, dancing

Campus involvement: Black Affairs Council, Black Male Leadership Society, Pamoja Dance Company, Minority Student Science Association

Reason for attending UGA:    To maximize my potential growth so that I may be my best self in the workforce.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: I felt drawn to the overall purpose and mission of GAAME and I identify as a Black male who seeks to reciprocate the growth of those around 
him.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I seek to uplift and guide Black men on campus as they have, and continue to do for me as I remain a student at UGA.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: GAAME serves as the bumpers on a bowling alley. As long as you’re involved, there’s virtually no way for you to miss your life targets and goals. The group is immaculate with social, academic, and personal well-being and guidance.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: My favorite experience would be the BAC Backyard Bash that the Black Affairs Council held.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wendell Stallings

Wendell Stallings
(he/him/his)

Sophomore
Major: Real Estate
Hometown: Waynesboro, GA

Hobbies: Watching football, videography, cooking

Campus involvement: UGA Mind Blowers, NavCompass, Admissions intern, BMLS

Reason for attending UGA: 48 hours, that's how long it took me to realize UGA was going to be the place for me. I attended Georgia Daze Weekend, a weekend designed to give admitted students of color the opportunity to connect with current UGA students of color. Being outside the four walls of UGA I definitely felt the pressure of
committing to a predominantly white intuition, but with this program that pressure was removed because I felt that if I did come to UGA I would have a support system and people available to me that understand some of the things I have or could potentially go through. Beyond Georgia Daze, I wanted to be a business man and the best bang for my buck started with Terry College; the new Business Learning Community instantly drew me in and the research that I did lead the rest of the way.

Inspiration to be a GAAME Scholar: I wanted to connect with the Black community as much as I could especially my freshman year. I did not want to feel the pressure of feeling like I 
have to do it all on my own, so I really saw the value in enrolling in the GAAME first-year seminar and building relationships through that experience.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I have a strong belief in pouring back into what poured into you. I know how I felt through my first year process and I want to help in any way I can to future GAAME Scholars.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: You should get involved with GAAME because you get plugs…seriously. Use GAAME as a resource; that is what it is here for. I would not be an Admissions Intern if it wasn't for GAAME. I wouldn't have received the external scholarship I was awarded if it hadn't been for the support of the GAAME staff. There are a lot of opportunities for you to reach out and grab. I believe GAAME is that extra foot that you need to close that gap and take it.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: When I think about my favorite UGA moments I think about moments that really can't happen anywhere else. I remember going to Snelling at 12 am for breakfast. I met a couple of friends from ECV and Payne Hall. After we finished eating at Snelling, when we were walking back from Payne Hall to ECV it was lightening. I said "It’s about to rain y'all" but nobody wanted to listen to me. We got to the end of Sanford Stadium and it just dumped. We ran, stopped under bus stop and got soaked. It was funny and sad, but it was also a walk I'll never forget.

Thomas

Quin Thomas
(he/him/his)

Senior
Major: Political Science
Minors: African American Studies & Criminal Justice Studies
Hometown: Sandersville, GA

Hobbies: Writing, reading, binge watching TV series

Campus involvement: GAAME, BMLS, UGA Housing

Reason for attending UGA: I decided to attend the University of Georgia because I felt that this was the campus of opportunity. I knew that once I graduated with a degree from Georgia that I would be prepared to attend law school or enter immediately into the workforce. What's next, is a question that I take very seriously and I had a strong sense that this university would best help me answer that question after four years.

Inspiration to become a GAAME Ambassador:  I decided to become a GAAME Ambassador because giving back to a program that has given so much to me was extremely important.

Advice to other Black male students on why they should get involved with GAAME: I believe that GAAME has been pivotal in the success and choices I have made on this campus. Coming onto a campus being a minority I felt alone and ostracized in many spaces. A feeling that only a small portion of a population could ever understand the challenges and 
experiences we face in the world and campus, was one that took time to get used to. The GAAME program made me feel supported, heard, and seen.

Favorite UGA moment or experience so far: Being elected Brumby Hall President during my first-year on campus.