Longtime University Supporter Represents a Multigenerational Bulldog Family
Normalite Boyte Presnell Named Grand Marshal of 2026 Homecoming Parade
Alabama A&M University Normalite and longtime supporter Boyte A. Presnell will serve as grand marshal of the 2026 Homecoming Parade on Saturday, Oct. 17, highlighting a family connection to The Hill that spans generations.
Homecoming 2026, themed “A Different World, Same Bulldog Legacy,” will bring students, alumni, families and friends of the University together Oct. 10-17 for signature events and the annual Homecoming football game.
The Homecoming Parade begins at 8 a.m. Oct. 17. The celebration continues at 2 p.m. when the Bulldogs take on Grambling State University at Louis Crews Stadium.
For Presnell, of Theodore, Alabama, the honor recognizes a relationship with Alabama A&M shaped by service, philanthropy and a family connection spanning several generations.
Presnell earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of South Alabama and a Master of Arts in history from Atlanta University. She also pursued postgraduate studies at Alabama A&M University.
A business professional and community leader, Presnell serves as bookkeeper for her family’s property management business and as a receptionist at her son Alvin’s Allstate Insurance office. She also serves on the board of trustees at Highpoint Baptist Church.
Presnell is a lifetime member of the Alabama A&M University National Alumni Association and a former member of the President’s Advisory Council. As a former member of the association’s Mobile Chapter, she helped with an effort that raised $50,000 for the University. She also served on the Arts and Culture Committee for Alabama A&M’s 150th Anniversary celebration.
Her connection to AAMU is closely tied to her late husband, Alvin Presnell, a 1969 graduate and standout football player who was drafted by the Oakland Raiders. His experience at Alabama A&M allowed him to pursue his education while developing his athletic talents.
The couple showed their appreciation for the University through financial contributions and by encouraging others to attend AAMU. Presnell continues that support today through her involvement with the University and its alumni community.
The Presnell family’s ties to The Hill extend across generations. Their son, Alvin Presnell Jr., graduated in 1987, and their daughter-in-law, Melissa, graduated in 1988. Their granddaughter, Alexis, and her husband, Kelvin Lule, are both 2019 graduates. Alexis earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from AAMU. Several nieces and a nephew also attended the University.
Presnell hopes the family connection will continue with her great-granddaughter, Rosemary, who may one day follow in her relatives’ footsteps to The Hill.
Her selection to lead this year’s parade embodies the Homecoming theme, “A Different World, Same Bulldog Legacy,” while recognizing a family whose relationship with Alabama A&M has been strengthened through education, service and support.
Homecoming festivities begin Saturday, Oct. 10, and continue through Saturday, Oct. 17, with signature events including the Homecoming Kickoff, Gospel Explosion, NPHC Step Show, Alumni Day Party, Homecoming Parade and more.
For a complete list of Homecoming 2026 events, visit AAMU Homecoming 2026.