Computer Science Major to Represent AAMU, Connect Students to Retail Industry Careers
Cook Named 2026-27 NRF Foundation Student Ambassador
Alabama A&M University junior Cailyn Cook has been selected as a 2026-27 National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation Student Ambassador, earning a national leadership role that connects college students with career opportunities across the retail industry.
Cook, a computer science major with a concentration in artificial intelligence from Montgomery, Ala. will represent the University in the NRF Foundation Student Ambassador program, which prepares students for careers through professional development, networking and experiential learning. The NRF Foundation Student Ambassador term runs from February 2026 through January 2027.
The National Retail Federation Foundation’s student program brings participants to New York City for an immersive experience exploring careers in marketing, merchandising, technology, supply chain, sustainability and entrepreneurship. Students engage with industry executives, meet recruiters from leading brands and gain insight into career pathways in the retail sector.
Cook said her selection followed a competitive application process and a nomination from Terry Miller, professor and director of Experiential Learning and Outreach at Alabama A&M.
“My first reaction was pure excitement, but then it really sank in, and I got emotional,” said Cook. “As a first-generation college student, every milestone hits different because I know what it took to get here.”
As a student ambassador, Cook will promote NRF Foundation programs on campus, connect students with career resources and lead initiatives such as the NRF Foundation University Challenge. The role also provides access to networking opportunities, professional development experiences and engagement with industry leaders.
Student ambassadors who complete program requirements receive a $1,000 travel stipend to attend the NRF Foundation Student Program, scheduled for Jan. 7-10, 2027, in New York City, as well as a $250 gift card.
Cook said she is most looking forward to the growth the experience will bring.
“Networking with industry leaders, representing my school on a national level and leading initiatives on campus all of which will shape me into a stronger individual and a better leader,” she said. “I’m ready to see who I become on the other side of this.”
A first-generation college student, Cook said choosing Alabama A&M was driven by a sense of belonging and community.
“It felt like home,” she said. “Walking on campus and seeing people who shared my background, my culture and my drive, I just knew this was where I was supposed to be.”
Cook is involved in several campus organizations, including the Association for Computing Machinery, where she serves as treasurer, as well as Girls Who Code and the National Society of Leadership and Success.
She plans to graduate in spring 2027 and pursue a master’s degree in computer science. Her long-term goal is to build a career in IT project management, where she can lead teams and develop solutions that create meaningful impact.
“I’ve always loved solving problems and figuring out how things work,” said Cook. “Computer science combines creativity with logic, and artificial intelligence is transforming the world in real time. I want to be part of that change.