- January 31st, 2026
- in News
[TUSCALOOSA, Ala.] — The University of Alabama National Alumni Association recognized the 2026 class of the 18 Under 31 Young Alumni Awards at a reception on Jan. 30, 2026. These distinguished recipients are exceptional young alumni who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and communities. 18 Under 31 honorees represent the best of the Capstone, showcasing talent, dedication and legendary leadership.
The 2026 18 Under 31 Young Alumni Awards recipients are:
- Caroline Aulbach, service delivery senior manager at Schellman
- Eryn Cooper, Nashville-based broadcaster, producer and live event host
- Dr. Jay Little Cunningham, computer scientist and assistant professor at DePaul University
- Kelsey Finn, director of tax policy at the Georgia Department of Revenue
- Savannah Fisher, fifth-grade science and social studies teacher at Pelham Ridge Elementary School
- Chloe Franklin, program manager with LEMOINE Program Services in Mobile, AL
- McKinley Hatcher, solutions director of global occupier accounts at CBRE
- Chandler Shields Helton, government relations manager at H&R Block
- Landon Hughes, distribution engineer at PowerSouth Energy Cooperative
- Joyce Jekayinoluwa, doctoral student in global gender and sexuality studies at the University at Buffalo
- Gretchen Johnson, franchise relationship manager at Top 2 Bottom Business Solutions in Charlotte, NC
- Kelsi Long, attorney at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP
- Preston McGee, community outreach coordinator for the Selma Resilience Initiative (Culverhouse College of Business)
- Staff Sergeant Matthew Meadows, U.S. Army Band horn player, soloist, chamber musician and clinician
- Dr. David Neuberger, assistant professor of family and sports medicine at the University of Louisville
- Ryan Pellegrino, partner at The Eagle Group Financial Advisors (TEGFA)
- Bella Thoren Taylor, attorney at Gardner Skelton, PLLC in Charlotte, NC
- Captain Elijah G. Teixeira, U.S. Army officer
The National Alumni Association is a self-governed, nonprofit membership-based organization that serves The University of Alabama and its many alumni, students, families, friends and fans.