Page 12 - Hampton-Fundraising-Report-2025

P A R T I
E S T E E M E D D O N O R S :
Pacesetter Profiles
Myra Richardson Williams ‘83
LEADING WITH GRACE AND JOY
Behind every great leader is a steadfast partner. For President Darrell K. Williams, that partner is
First Lady Myra Richardson Williams ‘83. A proud alumna of the legendary “Radiance” class, she
is the embodiment of grace whose steady presence on campus and genuine engagement with students,
faculty, staff, and alumni elevate the Hampton experience. Her powerful example of service and
philanthropy is a vital force as we position Hampton for the future.
Tiyale Hayes ‘98
SERVING WITH IMPACT
Hampton alumnus Tiyale Hayes ‘98, an Executive Vice President at BET Networks, is a dynamic leader
in data analytics. His commitment extends to his alma mater as an alumnus-giving co-chair for the
NHAA Legacy Blue Gala. By leading philanthropic efforts and raising awareness, he exemplifies how
alumni directly strengthen the university’s mission and build the financial infrastructure necessary for the
next era of innovation and impact.
Leon Burns III ‘11
PAYING IT FORWARD IN TECH
Leon Burns III ‘11, President of Open Technology Group, is paying it forward by opening doors for
future tech leaders. Last year, his company committed an additional $25,000 toward their $100,000
pledge for the “DEIB in Black Analytics” scholarship. This initiative provides $5,000 annually to five
students, aiming to increase African American representation in data analytics and address inequities in
AI development. His story proves that visionary philanthropy can spark a transformative movement.
Faculty Innovator: Dr. Demetris L. Geddis ‘98
INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE
Dr. Demetris L. Geddis ‘98, Assistant Dean of SEAA, is a testament to the leaders Hampton produces.
With extensive research experience from Motorola and NASA, he secured over $607,000 in grants for the
Engineering department from the Department of Education and the NSF. As the Principal Investigator on
a multi-disciplinary grant, Dr. Geddis’s vision is building a crucial pipeline of future STEM leaders. His
efforts are actively shaping the future of our nation’s workforce.
12 H A M P T O N U N I V E R S I T Y