Award-Winning Pastor and Scholar will Discuss Women in Ministry and Leadership

Award-winning pastor, author and speaker Dr. Karri Bryant will headline Alabama A&M University’s 2026 Tea on the Hill on Thursday, March 26, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in Elmore Gymnasium as part of the University’s annual Women’s Week celebration.

Bryant is a nationally and internationally recognized speaker whose work focuses on empowering women in ministry and the marketplace. Known for her dynamic leadership and commitment to mentoring women and girls, Bryant encourages audiences to cultivate a meaningful relationship with God while pursuing purpose-driven lives in both spiritual and professional spaces.

An ordained clergywoman and emerging voice in faith-based leadership, Bryant frequently speaks on leadership development, strategic planning, entrepreneurship, spiritual capacity building and personal advocacy. Her work centers on helping women discover their purpose, strengthen their faith and lead with vision and accountability.

Bryant is the creator of several initiatives designed to support women navigating leadership and ministry. Among them is “Life Behind the Collar,” a platform that addresses the challenges women face in ministry and professional environments. She also leads the NUDGE Mentorship Initiative, a program that provides spiritual, personal and professional guidance to selected mentees. In addition, Bryant hosts “The Lit Life” Bible Study and Worship Series, which brings together believers for worship, community building and faith-centered dialogue.

Bryant earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Morris Brown College, a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University and a Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration in leadership and renewal fom Regent University. Bryant is also a published author and marketplace leader. She is married to the Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta.

Tea on the Hill will also feature the presentation of the Woman of Excellence Awards. A ticket is required to attend. Guests are asked to wear dressy tea attire in shades of light blue and purple. Denim and jeans are not permitted.

Women’s Week 2026, scheduled for March 23–27, is hosted by the AAMU Office of Student Leadership and Engagement. This year’s theme, “Rooted in Legacy. Blooming in Excellence,” celebrates the strength, resilience and lasting impact of women while honoring those who paved the way for future generations.

Students should check their University email for registration links for events that require advance sign-up.

Women’s Week Schedule

Monday, March 23
Flower Bouquet Class | 6 p.m. | Ralph Lee Student Center, Bulldog Lounge
Registration required; space is limited.

Tuesday, March 24
Women’s Self-Defense Class | 2 p.m. | University Fitness and Recreation Center
Registration required; space is limited.

Pilates and Pumps | 6 p.m. | University Fitness and Recreation Center

Wednesday, March 25
SHEro Fair / Marketplace | Noon–2 p.m. | The Quad

Girl Talk | 6 p.m. | Ralph Lee Student Center, Bulldog Lounge
RSVP required; space is limited.

Thursday, March 26
Tea on the Hill | 12:30–2:30 p.m. | Elmore Gymnasium
Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Karri Bryant and the Woman of Excellence Awards.

Friday, March 27
Hair and Makeup Competition | 6 p.m. | Knight Center Ballroom
Hair stylists and makeup artists interested in competing are encouraged to register.

Students, faculty and staff are invited to participate in the weeklong celebration recognizing the achievements and contributions of women across the AAMU community.