Spelman Day at the Capitol Elevates Student Leadership and Civic Engagement

Students and Alumnae Join Together for A Powerful Show of Pride, Unity and Purpose

Last week, the Georgia State Capitol welcomed over 130 Spelman College students, faculty, staff and alumnae for Spelman Day at the Georgia State Capitol. Over the course of the day, students and alumnae met with legislators, explored the state’s capitol and learned the inner workings of the state legislative system.

The event, hosted in partnership with the Atlanta Chapter of the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College, was designed to elevate Spelman’s students, academic programs, and alumnae before state policymakers and strengthen the College’s relationships across the Georgia General Assembly.

Spelman Day at the Capitol is a fantastic event that offers an opportunity for advocacy and sisterhood. It really connects us to the roots of what we all are about at Spelman College,” said NAASC Atlanta Chapter President Vasanne Tinsley, C’92. “Having the students and alumnae interact with legislative members and hearing about areas that are important to people -- not just women but people -- threads what we do from the social justice standpoint and what we’re taught at Spelman. It’s just powerful to see us together. We can do so much when we gather in a large number.”

To begin the day, the students and alumnae heard from several legislators, including Spelman alumnae Senator Gail Davenport and Representative Mekyah McQueen. Other legislators to bring greetings include Representative Tremaine Teddy Reese, Representative Eric Bell, Representative Park Cannon, Representative Imani Barnes and Senator Nan Orrock. Each member emphasized the importance of civic engagement and advocacy, and shared insights into their professional journeys.

Following the conversations with elected officials, the students and alumnae heard inspiring remarks from Spelman community leaders like Interim President Rosalind Brewer, C’84, the 42nd Miss Spelman College Taylor Mills, C’2026, and Dometrice “Dee” Clemmons, C’91, the first African American woman serve as Commissioner in Henry County Georgia.

"Spelman Day at the Capitol reflects who we are as an institution—deeply rooted in civic responsibility, leadership, and service to the greater good,” said Interim President Brewer. “When our students and alumnae engage directly with policymakers, they not only amplify their voices, but also demonstrate the power of a Spelman education to shape public dialogue, strengthen communities, and help lead Georgia into the future.”

To culminate the day’s activities, students and alumnae had the remarkable opportunity to visit the Senate and House Chambers to view a daily session firsthand. During the session, Interim President Brewer spoke legislative members on the Senate floor and emphasized Spelman’s critical role in Georgia’s economic vitality, workforce development and leadership pipeline, along with Spelman’s continued excellence.

To view more photos from Spelman Day at the Capitol, visit @spelman_college on Instagram.