Student Creative Team Gains National Exposure in Houston

Members of Alabama A&M University’s award-winning creative content team, Crew 75, expanded their national reach at AfroTech 2026 in Houston, covering influential voices in technology, business and innovation while connecting with Black entrepreneurs and industry leaders from across the country. Held Nov. 4-8, AfroTech 2026 brought together Black technology professionals, entrepreneurs, executives and innovators for networking, professional development and discussions about the future of technology and business.

Representing Crew 75 at the conference were Sarah Ashlyn Franklin, a junior marketing major; Jay Mayes Jr., a senior accounting major; Khari Hartman, a junior communications media major; and Jailah Richie, a sophomore communications media major. The students showcased their creative talents, expanded their professional networks and introduced the conference to AAMU through creative content.

Crew 75 students also had the opportunity to meet and interview influential voices, including media personality Troy Millings and political leader Stacey Abrams, and connected with Houston Rockets executives during a visit that included attending an NBA game.

"The experience of interviewing a leader like Stacey Abrams was inspiring for me," said Hartman. "This conference was filled with so many incredible and talented people, but her agreeing to speak with us was a highlight. She was so gracious and really spoke directly to the question of what we should be doing with our access to the University platforms in shaping change."

At AfroTech, Abrams emphasized the importance of ensuring AI serves all communities, including populations historically excluded from technological research and innovation. She addressed the need for representation in technology development and decision-making, accountability in AI and opportunities for HBCU students to become innovators and leaders in the field.

Watch a clip of Crew 75’s interview with Stacey Abrams

For the four Crew 75 representatives, the conference offered valuable experience in content creation, digital storytelling and professional networking while providing opportunities to connect with leaders shaping the technology industry.

"These experiences put us in rooms where we can learn directly from people shaping industries and culture," said Mayes. "We're building skills, making meaningful connections and showing what Alabama A&M students bring to the table. Every experience is also a chance to introduce new audiences to our University and the talent being developed on The Hill."

Richie and Franklin were also invited to the Dope Thinkher luncheon, presented by Kulur, where they participated as the only college students in attendance. 

While in Houston, the team also advanced work on a broader AAMU brand project and extended its coverage to Saturday's AAMU Football matchup at Prairie View A&M. Through opportunities such as AfroTech, Crew 75 continues to expand its presence beyond The Hill, providing students with hands-on media experience while elevating Alabama A&M University’s visibility on a national stage.