Drexel University Black Alumni Council (DUBAC)
Mission
DUBAC’s vision is to embrace our collective responsibility to those who led the way among Drexel’s people of color community and to those who will follow, both on campus and in the world. This group is open to all alumni.
Current goals include:
- To engage current students and alumni in a network that connects them to the University and each other through effective communication, stimulating programs and events.
- To foster meaningful ties with students to attract, support, develop and empower the next generation of black alumni.
Congratulations to the 2025 DUBAC Award Winners!
- Brian C. Weddington ’88
Distinguished Alumni Award - Sharrelle Barber
Dr. Ewaugh Finney Fields Award - Al Valentine ’73
Paragon Trailblazer Award
Gala Celebrates a Decade of Meanful Connections
Friends, supporters and members of the Drexel University Black Alumni Council gathered at the Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square on Oct. 19 to honor the group’s 10th anniversary. The energy in the room was palpable as guests dined, danced and raised funds for the DUBAC Endowed Scholarship. Guests of honor included Lenny Comma ’92, recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award and Jemel McWilliams ’03, recipient of the Paragon Trailblazer Award.
Thank You To Our Generous Gala Sponsors
STAKEHOLDER LEVEL
- UBUNTU Center on Racism, Global Movements and Population Health Equity
PATRON LEVEL
- Joel Ruffin ’05
- Karla Trotman ’15
FRIEND LEVEL
- Kandi Dobyns-Daniel ’12
- David Geltzer ’77, Trustee
- Evan Higgins ’13
- Alton Knight ’78
- Orcel Kounga ’17
- Jerry Martin ’77, Trustee
- Jesse Rhodes ’98
- Subir Sahu
- Al Valentine ’73
Connect With Us!
If you’re interested in learning more about how you can get involved with DUBAC and connect with its members, take a moment to fill out our brief online interest form.
Stay connected with DUBAC on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Linktree
If you have further questions, you may also contact the Office of Alumni Relations at alumni@drexel.edu.
DUBAC Leadership
Current Officers:
President: Jerry J. Martin '77
Vice President: Janeile Johnson '10 '13
Secretary: Christina Russell '13
Treasurer: Evan Higgins '13
Bibliographer: Betty Jean Wolfe MBA '88
Editor-in-Chief: Angela Dowd-Burton '74, '79
Endowed Scholarship Committee Chair: Merie Nickay Daniel Perry '00
Directors:
Angela Harris ’02
Janai Johnson ’18
Linda Croskey ’18
President Emeritus: Chantee Steele ’13

A Legacy to Share
DUBAC Presents “A Legacy to Share”
This collection of 50+ stories chronicles the vibrant lives of alumni who have excelled across multiple fields and industries. “A Legacy to Share” highlights Black students and alumni who cut through the incessant obstacles faced throughout this country’s history to enjoy successful careers and a zest for lifelong learning. Each writer shares their experiences in their authentic voice and their secrets of resilience with the next generation.
Writers represent graduates from 1968 through 2020. The book also features infographics, a foreword by President John Fry, and lists of Black Drexel pioneers, members of the Drexel 100 and members of the Board of Directors.
The purpose of the “A Legacy to Share” Book Project is to inspire Black students with proceeds going towards DUBAC scholarships for current and future students.
Books are now available at a Fair Market Value (FMV) of $25 per book. To make the biggest impact, you can add an additional donation before finalizing your transaction. Any amount exceeding the FMV for each book ($25) is eligible for a charitable tax deduction. For example, total payment of $35 for one book, $10 is the tax-deductible portion and supports the DUBAC scholarship fund.