Alumnus Oliver Speller’s Mentorship Sends Seniors to The Hill

Alabama A&M University’s influence in Chicago classrooms is on full display through alumnus Oliver Speller, a teacher and mentor whose impact is shaping the next generation of college-bound students.

On National Decision Day, that influence came full circle at Kenwood Academy High School on the city’s South Side, where Spiller teaches honors forensic science and human body systems. As Alabama A&M representatives visited the campus ahead of the historic HBCU Classic at Wrigley Field against Prairie View A&M on May 2, Spiller greeted students by name in the hallways, exchanging high fives and hugs in a school culture he describes as uniquely aligned with historically Black colleges and universities.

“Kenwood is the HBCU for high school students in Chicago,” said Spiller. “You see it in the pride, the culture and the expectations. College is the standard here, and HBCUs are a big part of that.”

Speller, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and History Education from Alabama A&M and a master’s degree in arts and education from Olivet Nazarene University, has built a career rooted in service and student success. In addition to teaching, he has served as a science teacher, instructional leader, department chair and assistant football coach, contributing to a city championship program while advancing curriculum development and academic achievement.

His commitment extends beyond the classroom. Speller founded mentoring and enrichment initiatives including RISE UP, a male mentoring program in partnership with Operation PUSH, as well as collaborative programs with the University of Chicago and Northwestern University. Each initiative is designed to expand opportunities for underserved students while preparing them academically, socially and professionally.

That work is producing tangible results. Four Kenwood seniors recently committed to Alabama A&M, continuing a growing pipeline from Chicago to The Hill.

Among them is Londyn Alexander, who said the University offered both opportunity and a sense of belonging. “I wanted a place that felt like home while still pushing me to grow,” she said.

Kyla Moore’s decision reflects a family legacy. Her father is also an alumnus, so she visited campus during High School Day, auditioned for the choir and earned a scholarship — an experience that solidified her choice.

Lester Barrett, a Merit Scholarship recipient, was drawn to the University early in his college search, while Jayden Island said family ties in Alabama helped make his decision clear.

For Speller, moments like these represent the broader mission of his work.

“Seeing students choose Alabama A&M is personal for me,” he said. “It means they’re stepping into an environment that will challenge them, support them and help them discover their purpose.”

Speller, who played on the Bulldogs football team as a student, credits his time on The Hill with shaping his approach to leadership and mentorship.

As Alabama A&M continues to build momentum in Chicago ahead of the HBCU Classic, Speller remains a key connector between the University and the city’s future leaders — ensuring that more students not only see college as attainable, but see The Hill as home.

“Alabama A&M University gave me a strong academic foundation and a deep sense of purpose to serve. It taught me that leadership is about lifting others, and that’s something I carry with me in every classroom, every conversation and every opportunity to guide the next generation of Bulldogs.”

From left,  Londyn Alexander, Jayden Island, Oliver Speller, Lester Barrett and Kyla Moore.