Name: Tameiko Allen Grant
Age: 33
Family: Married to Rodney Grant, one son (Jameson, 16 months) two stepdaughters (Roderica, 15, and Keneesha, 20).
Education: Bachelor of Science, Savannah State University; Juris Doctor, Vermont Law School; Master of Public Administration, University of North Florida; Master of Criminal Justice, Everest University (expected graduation date 2012).
Employed by: Everest University (Jacksonville Campus), Associate Academic Dean
Professional Organizations: Sigma Psi Upsilon Criminal Justice Fraternity, Florida Notary Association, Savannah State University National Alumni Association, Vermont Law School Alumni Association.
Community Involvement: Current President of the Savannah State University National Alumni Association Jacksonville Chapter, Steering Committee Member of the North Florida HBCU Alumni Association.
How did you get involved?
As an undergraduate student I was always involved in a variety of extracurricular activities. It made sense that when I graduated I would stay involved with my alma mater, which I credit for providing me with the opportunities that I have had throughout my career. When I moved to Jacksonville, I immediately located an alumni chapter. I was elected president of our local chapter last year and I am serving a two-year term. Our chapter devotes a great deal of time to fundraising for scholarships and being involved in community projects. We participate in events such as “Relay for Life” with the American Cancer Society and we sponsor a toy drive at Christmas.
As a steering committee member of the North Florida HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Alumni Association, I provide support to a committee composed of individuals from various HBCUs. The North Florida HBCU Hall of Fame seeks to promote the accomplishments of HBCU graduates who have made outstanding contributions to their communities, professions and their alma mater. I get the opportunity to work with people who are interested in promoting the successes and accomplishments of those who have made great strides while proving that the institution of HBCUs are as relevant today as they were when the first HBCU, Cheyney University, was founded in 1837.
How can someone else get involved?
If someone would like to get involved with either of these organizations, they can contact me at [email protected]. We are having our annual North Florida HBCU Hall of Fame Banquet on Sept. 16. In order to become a member of the Savannah State University Alumni Association, you need only have a genuine interest in seeing young people succeed and a commitment to hard work.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
The most important thing that I have learned is that alumni can contribute to the sustainability of an institution in so many ways. While all institutions need money to operate, service and contributions of time, talent and treasure are integral in the viability of an organization. The greatest resource of advocacy for any institution is its alumni. There can be no testimony greater than that told by the outstanding accomplishment of an institution’s graduates! Moreover, HBCUs are sources of growth, success and great pride across the nation. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “If you want to be important - that’s wonderful. If you want to be great - that’s wonderful. But recognize that he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. That’s your new definition of greatness - it means that everybody can be great because everybody can serve ...”
What was the last book you read or are reading?
I actually just read three great books simultaneously: “The Energy Bus” and “The No Complaining Rule” by Jon Gordon, and “The Little Black Book of Success: Laws of Leadership for Black Women” by Elaine Meryl Brown.