Business Management Major Shares Story of Perseverance and Purpose

Alabama A&M University senior Makahla Riley, a business management major from Huntsville, Alabama, is one of seven recipients of the Black-Tie Scholarship to be recognized at this year's event. Riley, a transfer student who has maintained a 4.0 GPA since arriving at Alabama A&M, said the scholarship represents more than financial support — it reflects belief in her potential and reinforces her commitment to continue striving for excellence.

“Receiving the Margie Malone Tuckson Scholarship has helped support my journey and reminds me that there are people who believe in students like me and are willing to invest in our futures,” said Riley.

The Black-Tie Scholarship Gala, the University’s signature scholarship fundraiser, will be held April 17 at the AAMU Event Center. The Gala will draw 1,000 alumni, corporate partners and community leaders in support of students like Riley. The event will feature five scholarship recipients, with two additional scholars delivering testimonies during the program. Grammy-nominated R&B artist Tamia and Hip-Hop legend DJ Jazzy Jeff will headline the evening. Proceeds from the gala provide critical scholarship support for students across the University.

Riley’s path to Alabama A&M reflects determination, exploration and growth. Initially unsure of her direction after high school, she began her academic journey through dual enrollment at Drake State Community and Technical College before earning a full scholarship to complete her associate degree. She graduated in 2024 with a 3.8 GPA before transferring to Alabama A&M to pursue her bachelor’s degree.

“My time at Alabama A&M has taught me the importance of stepping forward and taking opportunities, even when they may feel uncomfortable,” she said. “All of those experiences have taught me to be bold and to step outside of my comfort zone.”

Riley is not alone in finding support through the genorosity of those in the AAMU community. In total, 859 AAMU students received scholarships during the 2024-25 academic year. This critical support was made possible by donors who contributed $1,514,379. 

At Alabama A&M, Riley has embraced leadership opportunities, serving as a University Echo student ambassador and becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. She credits her growth to a willingness to take risks and the support of mentors, faculty and her family.

“My parents instilled in me that whatever I do, I should do so with confidence, dedication and most importantly, faith,” said Riley. “Watching them return to school later in life showed me that it is never too late to pursue your goals.”

She says the scholarship and her experiences at Alabama A&M have strengthened her belief in perseverance and purpose as she prepares for graduation in December 2026.

“Throughout my journey, I have learned that sometimes the only thing standing between where you are and where you want to be is the courage to step forward and believe in yourself,” Riley said. “When you combine faith, hard work and the willingness to embrace opportunities when they come, amazing things can happen.”

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