Stallion Digest - ��

Exciting Opportunity: Global MBA in Impact Entrepreneurship

2025-06-20T09:18:53+00:00

We are pleased to share an exceptional educational opportunity that aligns perfectly with our institution's commitment to developing leaders who make a meaningful difference in the world. The E4Impact Foundation is offering a Global MBA in Impact Entrepreneurship program that promises to transform academic excellence into real-world business acceleration.

This comprehensive 12-month program represents a unique fusion of rigorous academics and practical business application, designed specifically for busy professionals seeking to expand their impact. The program's tagline, "Academic Excellence Meets Business Acceleration," perfectly captures its dual focus on scholarly rigor and entrepreneurial success.

Program Highlights:

The curriculum is structured around six key pillars that promise to transform participants' professional trajectories. Students will have the opportunity to transform their vision through a program where rigorous academics meet real-world business acceleration. The learning experience includes intensive sessions with global leaders through four specialized boot camps led by European innovation experts, bringing international perspectives directly to participants.

Understanding the demands of working professionals, the program features flexible weekend learning formats that allow participants to advance their education without compromising their current responsibilities. One of the most exciting aspects is the exclusive business networking week in Milan, offering participants the chance to expand their horizons and connect with European business leaders and entrepreneurs.

The program emphasizes building bridges across continents by joining a powerful African-European business ecosystem, creating unprecedented opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and business development. Finally, participants will elevate their impact through elite entrepreneurship and leadership training designed to develop the next generation of change-makers.

Global Reach and Impact:

E4Impact's impressive footprint spans 21 African countries, working through MBA Entrepreneurship centers and various projects to foster sustainable business development across the continent. The foundation's work has contributed significantly to the accomplishment of many United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating the program's alignment with global priorities for positive change.

Program Details:

The program will be held at the Shehu Musa Yar'adua Center in Abuja, providing a prestigious and accessible venue for Nigerian participants. The comprehensive nature of the program focuses on five core areas: Innovation, Pitching, Validation, Impact, Funding, and Networks – essential components for successful entrepreneurship in today's global economy.

This partnership between ��, E4Impact Foundation, and Università Cattolica brings together diverse expertise and international perspectives, creating a truly global learning experience right here in Nigeria.

For our alumni interested in advancing their entrepreneurial journey or enhancing their leadership capabilities, this program represents an extraordinary opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals while developing the skills needed to create lasting positive impact in their communities and beyond.

For inquiries and applications, interested alumni can contact +234 916 983 6809 or +234 805 226 6398, or visit GlobalMBA4Impact@aun.edu.ng for more information.

Alumni Reunion Dinner: Honoring Dean Byron Swanson Bullock

2025-06-20T09:18:35+00:00

Our recent Alumni Reunion Dinner served as both a celebration of our alumni community and a heartfelt farewell to a true institutional legend, Dean Byron Swanson Bullock. The evening was filled with emotion, gratitude, and appreciation as we gathered to honor a man whose impact on countless lives cannot be overstated.

The evening was punctuated by heartfelt tributes from multiple speakers who each shared their unique perspective on Dean Bullock's transformative influence. Huntly Anabs delivered a moving speech that captured the essence of Dean Bullock's extraordinary legacy, describing him as someone who transcended his professional role to become a father figure, trusted guide, and unwavering friend to generations of students and colleagues.

Adding another deeply personal dimension to the tribute, Shalom Otuene, Dean Bullock's former Executive Assistant, took the podium to share her own profound experiences working alongside this remarkable leader. Her words painted a picture of a man who embodied the roles of father, friend, mentor, and missionary—someone she described as being "sent to Nigeria" to make a lasting impact on the lives he would touch.

"Dean Bullock has been more than an administrator to all of us," the speakers conveyed through their heartfelt testimonies. "He has been a constant presence, a steady hand, and a source of wisdom that shaped not just the Dean of Student Affairs office, but the very character of our institution." Their words resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom nodded in recognition of their own experiences with Dean Bullock's mentorship and support.

The collective speeches illuminated how Dean Bullock's influence extended far beyond policy and procedure. Under his leadership, the Dean of Student Affairs office became a beacon of support, understanding, and genuine care for student welfare. His open-door policy, compassionate approach to student challenges, and ability to see potential in every individual created an environment where students could thrive both academically and personally.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable leader, we carry forward the values he instilled and the example he set. Dean Byron Swanson Bullock's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students, staff, and alumni, reminding us all of the profound impact one dedicated individual can have on an entire community.

The evening concluded with a standing ovation, a fitting tribute to a man whose service and dedication have left an indelible mark on our institution's history.

Launch of the Alumni Park

2025-06-20T09:18:15+00:00

We are thrilled to announce the successful launch of our Alumni Park, which marked a significant milestone in strengthening the bonds between our institution and our distinguished graduates. The event was graced by the presence of President/Vice Chancellor Dewayne Frazier, whose inspiring words emphasized the vital role our alumni play in the continued growth and success of our academic community.

The launch ceremony brought together key institutional leaders, including our dedicated Registrar and Dean of Student Affairs, alongside a remarkable gathering of alumni from various graduating classes. The atmosphere was one of celebration and renewed connection, as attendees shared stories, reminisced about their academic journeys, and discussed their professional achievements since graduation.

President Frazier highlighted the importance of maintaining strong alumni relationships, noting how our graduates serve as ambassadors of excellence in their respective fields and continue to contribute to the institution's reputation worldwide. The Alumni Park represents our commitment to fostering lifelong connections and creating meaningful opportunities for engagement between the institution and its extended family of graduates.

The enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from attendees signal a bright future for alumni engagement, with plans already underway for expanded programming and regular networking opportunities.

Save the date dinner

2025-05-08T08:39:47+00:00

Alum Dinner Reminder - May 14th, 2025

The time has come to reunite and celebrate!

Join us for the Alum Dinner on May 14th, 2025, at 7:30 PM as we welcome the stallions home.

It’s an evening to reconnect, reminisce, and create new memories.

Mark your calendar – we can’t wait to see you there!

Easter Greetings

2025-05-08T08:39:13+00:00

Dear Friends and Family,

As the spring flowers bloom and new life emerges all around us, I wanted to take a moment to wish you a joyful and blessed Easter season.

May this time of renewal bring you happiness, hope, and wonderful moments with those you cherish most. Easter reminds us of the beauty of fresh beginnings and the promise of brighter days ahead.

Whether you're gathering for a festive meal, participating in traditional celebrations, or simply enjoying the arrival of spring, I hope your Easter weekend is filled with warmth and delight.

Wishing you peace, joy, and all the blessings this special season has to offer.

Happy Easter!

GEN-NEXT: We Did a TEDx, Y'all—License to Speak

2025-05-08T08:38:36+00:00

Introduction

The excitement in the air at �� (AUN) could be felt long before TEDxAUN even kicked off. But this wasn’t just another event. It was the event. The first TEDx in the history of the institution, an event that would go on to redefine the way students and faculty engage with ideas and innovation. But what does it really take to turn a wild idea into a reality? And, more importantly, what happens when a group of determined students decides to make history? This is the story of how TEDxAUN came to life.

A Dream That Took Flight

When you hear the term “TEDx,” you might imagine large-scale corporate backing or endless resources. But at AUN, the concept began not in a corporate boardroom but in a student executive meeting. It all started as a passing idea, suggested by Safiyya, the then-President of the Honor Society, and Ngumimi, the Head of Events. At first, it seemed like a far-fetched dream. After all, how could a student-led initiative pull off something as massive as TEDx? And yet, with the ambition of students and a strong desire to make something meaningful, the idea began to gain traction.But, as with all good stories, there were obstacles. Getting the TEDx license wasn’t easy. Israel, the Honor Society President and Lead Volunteer for the event, recalls the challenges of securing that coveted approval from TED. “We got rejected twice,” he admits. “But when it finally happened, it felt like a win. And that victory was only the beginning.”

The Struggles Behind the Scenes

While securing the TEDx license was a significant breakthrough, the hard work was only just beginning. With tight timelines, limited resources, and the pressure of organizing such a high-stakes event, the planning committee faced numerous hurdles. Eric Allagoa, a graphics designer for TEDxAUN, shares, “It was tasking—there were budget constraints, tight schedules, and, on top of that, we were all students.” But despite these challenges, the team pulled together, working relentlessly behind the scenes to ensure everything came together.Phoebe Phillips, the official photographer, explains the value of collaboration: “It was amazing to work with different minds, but I learned that when planning events, protocols are essential. If one step fails, it all can fall apart. And sometimes, having backup plans is the only way to stay afloat.”For Murna Evalsam, the Secretary of the Planning Committee, the experience was a mixture of stress and joy. “Balancing the planning and other tasks was difficult, but I learned that teamwork is everything. It’s the key to success,” she says, adding that seeing a woman in tech like Mrs. Nguavese Tokula speak at the event was an inspiration to her.

Speakers Who Shaped the Event

When it came time to choose speakers, the TEDxAUN team knew they had to bring in voices that would resonate deeply with the AUN community. They didn’t just want speakers who were famous—they wanted speakers who would inspire and challenge the audience.Israel recalls, “We wanted speakers that AUN students would connect with—people who have experience and could speak about real issues like law, mental health, technology, and success.” The lineup included figures like Professor Magaji Bello, who spoke on the systemic issues within Nigeria’s judiciary; Barrister Andrew Malgwi, who delved into restoring trust in the Nigerian legal system; and Coach Nafisah Muhammad Buba, who reframed mental health as a tool for growth rather than a trap. The speakers brought different perspectives, each one leaving an indelible mark on the audience.But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. “Getting speakers to commit was one of our biggest challenges,” says Israel. “Some dropped out last minute, but we pushed through, and in the end, we had an incredible lineup.”

The Big Day: A Moment of Triumph

The day of TEDxAUN finally arrived, and the atmosphere was electric. From the moment the doors opened, it was clear that this event was something special. Israel reflects on the unexpected turnout: “AUN students are usually hesitant about attending events, but TEDxAUN had people scrambling to get tickets at the door.”Even the management at AUN showed overwhelming support, a collaboration that Israel believes was crucial to the event’s success. “From senior management to the DSA’s office, their response was incredible. We couldn’t have pulled it off without their help,” he says.But what made TEDxAUN truly memorable wasn’t just the speakers or the logistics—it was the way the event sparked new conversations on campus. “I think the most significant impact was that students saw intellectual discussions in a new light,” says Israel. “They realized that topics like law, mental health, and technology could be discussed in a meaningful, accessible way.”

Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making

Reflecting on the success of TEDxAUN, the question arises: Will it become a tradition at AUN? “I hope so,” says Israel, his voice full of optimism. “TEDxAUN showed us what’s possible when students come together and work towards a shared goal. If we can do this, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish in the future.”For Phoebe, Murna, and Eric, the experience was transformative, both personally and professionally. Eric sums it up best: “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I would definitely do it again. But next time, I’d plan and budget better.”As for Israel, he leaves us with a final thought: “This event taught me that everything rises and falls on leadership. It also showed me the power of collaboration—TEDxAUN wouldn’t have happened without every single person involved.”

The Legacy Lives On

TEDxAUN wasn’t just an event. It was a movement—one that challenged students to think bigger, aim higher, and push boundaries. It was a testament to the power of student-led initiatives and the lasting impact of collaboration. As Israel said, “Everything rises and falls on leadership,” and thanks to the leadership of the Honor Society and a dedicated team of students, TEDxAUN became a reality.And as for the students of AUN? They’ve now seen firsthand the incredible things that happen when you refuse to settle for “good enough” and aim for greatness. GEN-NEXT is here, and they’re just getting started.

'The best way to predict the future is to create it.' — Abraham Lincoln

By Michelle Niyang

Reconnecting AUN Alumni: The Revival That’s Redefining Legacy, Impact, and Networking

2025-05-08T08:20:35+00:00

How the Dean of Student Affairs is Rebuilding Bridges with AUN’s Alumni, Creating New Spaces for Connection, Growth, and Legacy.

When Mr. Sesugh Annger stepped into his role as the Dean of Student Affairs, he wasn’t just looking at the present—he was looking at the roots. Among the many branches of AUN life that had been left untended, one stood out clearly: alumni relations. It wasn’t just about old students—it was about family. And as he put it, “Just because they’ve graduated doesn’t mean we’ve forgotten them.”

This revival isn’t a passing trend or a temporary initiative—it’s a deeply personal endeavor for Mr. Annger. He sees it as a long-overdue effort to nourish something that has been left dormant for far too long. To him, it’s like pouring water into soil that hasn’t felt the touch of it in decades—reviving the roots and creating a foundation for growth that will last. It’s a chance to reconnect alumni to their alma mater in a way that feels authentic, ongoing, and rooted in care.

A New Vision for AUN’s Extended Family

The long-term vision for AUN’s alumni relations is bold but deeply rooted in care: to create a sustainable, meaningful connection between the university and its alumni that goes far beyond annual reunions. This revitalization of the alumni network isn’t just about looking back; it’s about building a living, evolving legacy that thrives on connection, shared purpose, and mutual support.

The newly revitalized alumni office is anchored by several key initiatives. The Stallion Digest, a digital newsletter, will soon be complemented by the biannual Stallion Nation Magazine, both of which will spotlight alumni stories, celebrate achievements, and provide thoughtful features that bring alumni together—whether through shared interests, professional journeys, or personal stories. These publications aim to be more than just updates; they are designed to foster a deeper connection and keep alumni informed about what’s happening across the community.

But it’s not just about updates—it’s about experience. Plans are underway for alumni merchandise like class rings, branded mugs, and other memorabilia to offer tangible reminders of their AUN connection. More importantly, a dedicated platform—a digital “common room”—is in development where alumni can network, share opportunities, collaborate on projects, and stay actively involved with one another. This platform will offer alumni a space to stay connected, not only with the university but with each other, providing a sense of home long after they’ve graduated.

A Bridge Between Alumni and Current Students

The initiative’s power isn’t just about rekindling alumni ties to the university—it’s about bridging the gap between past and present. One of the most exciting aspects of this revival is the opportunity for alumni to engage directly with current students, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and advice. Alumni will have the chance to serve as advisors, career mentors, and even guest speakers, providing invaluable insights into their own professional journeys.

For students, this interaction goes beyond the classroom. It’s a chance to learn from those who walked the same paths they’re on now, gaining perspectives that can shape their own futures. Whether it’s career advice, life skills, or simply hearing about what it’s really like after graduation, the alumni network will provide current students with a unique window into their potential futures.

This partnership will be nurtured through the new platform, where students can not only connect with alumni but engage in collaborative projects, internships, and job placements. Current students, armed with their academic knowledge, can bring fresh perspectives to alumni endeavors, while alumni can offer the guidance and support that students need to navigate the complexities of life post-graduation. Together, they can create a dynamic cycle of mutual benefit—growing the AUN family and strengthening the community.

Beyond Nostalgia: Real Connections, Real Impact

This new direction for AUN’s alumni relations recognizes that the role of alumni isn’t limited to nostalgia—it’s about fostering real, ongoing relationships that have a tangible impact. Alumni should have spaces where they can share their current endeavors, ask “Who’s doing what?” and discover opportunities to collaborate and support one another. It’s about creating an ecosystem where the success of one alumni is shared by the whole community.

A perfect example of this new direction can be seen in the recent spotlight on Haye, a talented AUN alumna who is making waves in the photography industry. Her success story is one of many that reflect the diverse accomplishments of AUN alumni, and it’s exactly the kind of content that this revitalized alumni network aims to highlight. The goal is to not just celebrate individual success, but also to create opportunities for others to be inspired, collaborate, and support one another in their own professional and personal journeys.

This initiative goes beyond just maintaining relationships with current students; it offers alumni the opportunity to mentor, collaborate on projects, and even join forces for professional ventures. Whether it’s undergraduates gaining insight from alumni or former classmates reuniting to launch new initiatives, AUN’s alumni network is designed to be a bridge—connecting past achievements to future opportunities.

A Beginning, Not an End

As with any significant change, the revival of alumni relations at AUN is a process that takes time. As Mr. Annger puts it, “Just like everything, the setup takes time.” The early stages are about laying the groundwork for what is intended to be a long-term tradition—a special hub where generations of AUN alumni and students can come together, share experiences, and continue to grow.

For Mr. Annger, the alumni aren’t just faces from the past. “They’re people and friends who have impacted me and experienced me too,” he says. That personal history makes this revival all the more meaningful. It’s not about turning the alumni network into an event or a short-term initiative—it’s about creating a lasting, organic community that continues to evolve and support one another, just as it did during their time on campus.

A Message to the Alumni Community

“You’re in my heart always,” the Dean shares. And the message to AUN alumni everywhere is clear: We want to celebrate you, learn from you, and stay connected with you.

Alumni who are interested in getting involved can reach out to the alumni office to share updates, participate in networking events, or be featured in upcoming publications. This is your home too—and the door is wide open.

The revival of alumni relations at AUN isn’t about just reminiscing on the past—it’s about creating a future where alumni and students continue to succeed together. It’s about the shared legacy that connects every member of the AUN family, and it’s time for everyone to re-engage, reconnect, and thrive.

By Michelle Niyang

Nbídè Ófùñ: The Waiting, the Breaking, the Becoming – A Homecoming with Haye Okoh

2025-05-08T07:54:30+00:00

It began quietly. A hum in the air, a gathering of minds, a gentle unfolding on an ordinary Tuesday afternoon.
But what happened on April 15th at the Library Auditorium foyer was anything but ordinary—it was sacred. A return. A remembering. A reckoning with self.

Alumna of the Class of 2012, Haye Okoh, came home—not just as a former student, but as a woman transformed, a storyteller matured, and a visionary artist with something to offer.
Her mixed media exhibition, Nbídè Ófùñ, wasn’t merely an artistic display. It was an invocation.

The title, drawn from Igbo, translates to “Waiting for Birth” or “Anticipating New Life.” But the works within spoke not only of literal birth—they pulsed with metaphors of becoming, of the ache and beauty of transformation.
The show captured the very essence of growth: sacred, slow, unseen, and yet so deeply felt.

Art that Speaks in Silence

The exhibition drew an eager and diverse crowd—students, professors, alumni, creatives.
Excited whispers filled the space as onlookers moved from piece to piece, some recognizing her from her work with Nigeria’s former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, others simply in awe.
A group of AUN students even gushed with starstruck admiration, marveling at how someone who once walked the same halls as they now do, could come back this way—with such power, grace, and impact.

And truly, the room stood still. Her pieces didn’t just hang on the walls—they breathed.

In *In Seclusion*, Haye explores the hiddenness of growth—the way something sacred takes shape in silence, just like life in the womb.
In *Roots of Gold*, she transforms stretch marks into symbols of resilience, tracing pain with reverence, and crowning it in gold.
“Those marks are proof,” she explained. “Proof that you’ve gone through something. That the breaking was worth it.”

Other pieces leaned into themes of grief and glory, solitude and rebirth. Using fabric, thread, photography, gold leaf, and charcoal, she composes worlds of emotion—spaces where silence speaks, where pain is not erased but embroidered into beauty.
Her art is a mirror, a balm, a question mark. It invites the viewer to not just look, but to feel, to listen, to remember.

Each work was a prayer in color and texture, a call to remember the sanctity in becoming.

The Journey Before the Masterpiece

But the story behind the story is where the soul of this homecoming truly lies.
Years ago, Haye was just another freshman, consumed by *House* and *Grey’s Anatomy*, convinced she’d one day wear a white coat and save lives.
“I thought I wanted to be a doctor,” she laughed. “But I was really in love with the story—the cinematography, the emotion, the buildup.”

She started in engineering. It didn’t stick. It wasn’t her. Then, almost by accident, she found CMD—Communication and Multimedia Design.
“That’s when everything clicked. I felt it in my bones. I didn’t just want to tell stories. I needed to.”

But passion, as we know, doesn’t always mean ease. There were doubts. There was discomfort. But there was also fire—and a deep, unshakable sense that she had found her path.
Like the women in her artwork, she carried her vision through the silent months, trusting that one day it would take form.

Full Circle: The Becoming

Over a decade later, she stood in those same halls—but this time as a guide, not a seeker.
Not only did she share her work, but she poured into the next generation of storytellers.
On April 16th, she hosted a masterclass titled *The Art of Storytelling* in the CMD Lab.
The room overflowed—not just with CMD students, but with aspiring creatives from across disciplines: Law, NES, IT, and more.

But Haye wasn’t there to teach technique alone—she came bearing truths:
• Truth: “There’s the truth that exists, and the truth you see. Tell your truth.”
• Originality: “Everything can be art if it’s honest. Your story matters.”
• Simplicity: “Sometimes the most powerful image is the quietest.”
• Intuition: “Your eye knows. Trust it.”
• Preparation: “Feel the space before you shoot. Let it speak to you.”
• Purpose: “Always know your ‘why.’ Ask yourself—what do I want this image to do?”

Her voice, gentle yet firm, urged the room to not just capture images but to move people.
“Let your work feel. Let it hurt. Let it heal. Let it become what it was meant to be.”

Legacy in Motion

Haye Okoh’s journey—marked by curiosity, courage, and calling—isn’t a straight line. It’s a cycle.
Like the birth she portrays in her work, her becoming was not loud or linear. It was layered. Honest. Soft where it needed to be, sharp where it had to be.

She is still becoming. And in choosing to return to the very place her dream began, she reminds us that every journey is sacred,
and every calling—no matter how unclear at first—is worth listening to.

“This place shaped me,” she said. “To return with something to give… that means everything.”
Now, it feels like she has come home to reminisce, to teach, to feel, to become—and to inspire others to become too.

And just like that, the lights dimmed. But the echo of *Nbídè Ófùñ*—the waiting, the breaking, the becoming—lingers still.

Follow Her Journey
Experience more of her work on Instagram: @hayeokoh
Because her story, like the best of them, is far from over.

By Michelle Niyang | For the AUN Alumni Association

We are excited to connect with you

2025-04-01T20:08:00+00:00

Dear Stallions Nation,

Although the years have passed and we are all a little older, a little greyer, and beg I say maybe even a little wiser. The �� (AUN) needs to connect with you all and find more ways to integrate you into our future. I was told at a recent conference that the success for Covenant University is predicated on their ability to connect with their alums. I cannot think of any school in Nigeria that has better and more equipped alumni as AUN and it is time we leverage each other to keep the university from ever taking steps back. For you all, the reputation of AUN is something you can take great pride as it is something that should stand the test of time.

For many of you, I have not met yet in person but I have heard so many stories about your accolades during AUN and after. I feel like family, and I beam with pride when people share with me stories about what you all are doing. From your families to the NGOs you run to the businesses many of you have started or joined. You all are the best example of AUN, you are the finished products of Stallion Nation.

With all of this in mind, I have called upon some team members, and we are relaunching our Alumni Affairs Office with the intention that it will never disappear again. The first event will be the Wednesday before commencement as we will unveil our Alumni Park with the new “I love AUN” sign. The sign has been paid for by one of our alums in honor of all of you. It is our time to shine and let all of Nigeria and the world know that AUN is a place different, a place special, and a place where dreams become a reality. You all are permanently connected to AUN and we are proud to call you our Alums, the best in the country.

DeWayne P. Frazier, Ph.D.

President

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Stallion Digest - ������