ATLANTA, Ga. ^__ Tuskegee University's Akierah Walker was one of three student-athletes be selected to represent the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference at the 2024 NCAA Leadership Forum April 11-14 in Bethesda, Md.
 
The NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum was created in 1997 and has served as host to more than 5,000 student-athletes since its inception. Student-athletes who attend the forum have the opportunity to refine their leadership skills and develop a close personal network of like-minded peers to provide continued connection and dialogue after the program concludes.
 
The NCAA Leadership Forum serves as a transformational opportunity for student-athletes and administrators to build a leadership toolkit and develop vital self-awareness that allows them to realize their potential.
 
This season, Walker turned heads as a member of the women's cross country and track and field teams. 

The Mississippi native competed in the 2023 Cricket SIAC Cross Country Championship, where she was named to the 2023 SIAC All-Conference Team after conquering the 5k at 22:46.4, the second-fastest time for the Golden Tigers.

"This achievement showcased my potential beyond my initial expectations due to hard work," Walker expressed. "It also allowed me to demonstrate to my teammates that if we all share the same amount of determination, we can accomplish many goals together."

Walker looks forward to attending the forum and aims to obtain guidance that will assist her in strengthening her leadership skills.

"The forum will be a great opportunity to learn about leading diverse groups and enhancing my leadership skills," Walker said. "I hope to gain more insight on how to become a more effective leader, on and off the track. I also hope to gain further perspective when it comes to understanding different experiences one may have as a student-athlete."
 
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