President of the Charlotte Alumni Association

Derrick Dillard, a proud member of the Class of 2000, holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Johnson C. Smith University and currently serves as President of the JCSU Charlotte Alumni Association. Derrick, a seasoned Lead Information Security Analyst (Vice President), boasts an impressive 24 years of experience in the financial services industry. His diverse background encompasses a wide range of expertise, including information and cybersecurity, sales, operations, and risk management.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Derrick cherishes his time with his family, particularly his wife of 18 years, Latoya, and their son, Cameron. Together, they embark on exciting travel adventures and explore the world’s finest beaches.

Vice President

BIO COMING SOON

Secretary

Shaquel Dials is a proud 2015 graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. She also holds a Master’s degree in Education and brings over a decade of experience as an educator and curriculum designer. Guided by her favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 3:5–6, Shaquel lives a life rooted in faith. In her free time, she enjoys attending sporting events, and spending quality time with her friends and family. Now in her third year as Secretary of the JCSU Charlotte Alumni Chapter, she is passionate about giving back and working alongside fellow alumni to advance the university’s legacy.

Social Media Coordinator

Shaquel Dials is a proud 2015 graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. She also holds a Master’s degree in Education and brings over a decade of experience as an educator and curriculum designer. Guided by her favorite Bible verse, Proverbs 3:5–6, Shaquel lives a life rooted in faith. In her free time, she enjoys attending sporting events, and spending quality time with her friends and family. Now in her third year as Secretary of the JCSU Charlotte Alumni Chapter, she is passionate about giving back and working alongside fellow alumni to advance the university’s legacy.

Treasurer

Veronica Brooks, class of 2000, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting. Her academic journey continued at Keller Graduate School of Management, where she attained a Master of Science in Accounting, further solidifying her expertise in the field.

Ms. Brooks has over two decades in Financial Services and Banking sectors, where she has consistently demonstrated excellence and leadership. Her proficiency as a Lean & Agile Process Improvement Leader has been instrumental in driving efficiency and innovation within these industries. Her commitment to continuous improvement is evidenced by her certifications as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Coach, qualifications that underline her capability in enhancing organizational processes.

Assistant Treasurer

BIO COMING SOON

Member at Large, Fundraising Committee Chair

Dammione Meyers, an alumnus of the Class of 2000 – dual major in Criminal Justice and Politic Science, is a native of Charleston, South Carolina. Mr. Meyers served honorably from 1998 to 2003 and is a valued member of the Bank of America team.

Member at Large

Valerie Dennis is a proud 2019 graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She is currently serving her second term as Member at Large on the Executive Board. In her professional role, Valerie supports at-risk students within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System, focusing on academic achievement, behavioral growth, and emotional well-being. With strong commitment to equity, advocacy and community engagement, she brings valuable insight and leadership to the board.

Chaplain, Outreach and Necrology Committee Chair

Rev. Adrian Lanett Harper, a proud native of Charlotte, NC, graduated from Johnson C. Smith University in 1992, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts. Following her graduation, Rev. Harper embarked on a career in Human Services. This journey eventually led her to ordained ministry in 2007, and she served as a pastor from 2011 to 2023.

In 2021, Rev. Harper earned her Master of Divinity degree from Hood Theological Seminary. Currently, she works part-time with a team that supports the Adult Spiritual Formation Department at Christ Church Charlotte, while also dedicating time to her nonprofit organization, The A.L. Harper Foundation.

Scholarship Committee Chair

Matthew Robertson, a native of Tucker, Georgia, earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science Information Systems in 2010 and his Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Liberty University in 2023. He is currently a Materials Coordinator for the Supply Chain at Atrium Health. He’s a passionate supporter of Atlanta sports teams (Falcons, Georgia Bulldogs, and Braves). Matthew enjoys spending his free time traveling, golfing, volunteering with youth, serving at church, and connecting with friends.