Executive leadership Executive leadership

The University of Miami Black Alumni Association is led by a distinguished group of alumni, elected to guide, serve, and lead the society.

2021-2023 UMBAS Executive Board Officers

Patricia Dunac Morgan, B.S. ’06

President

Founder/Owner, The Executive Learning Lab 
Dr. Morgan (she/her) is an innovative and passionate leader with a heart for equity, access, inclusion, and social justice. She has conducted numerous studies and presentations on Culturally Responsive Organizations, Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, and access and barriers to STEM at local, national, and international conferences. She has also hosted several keynotes and plenary sessions for educational, nonprofit, and international organizations through her consulting agency, The Executive Learning Lab. In her spare time, Dr. Morgan serves as a board member for several educational organizations, binge watches comedies, and is an avid traveler and foodie. Follow her on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Astin Hayes, B.S.C. ’06

President-ELECT

Key Account Manager, Remy Cointreau
Since the moment she walked on the University of Miami campus, Astin Hayes has worked to push the agenda for Black student life through United Black Students, Delta Sigma Theta, Yellow Rose Society, Hurricane Productions, and a host of other activities and organizations. This motivation did not end once she graduated. Astin returns every year for Homecoming and graduations, gives back to the University, and stays abreast of University news. Astin has served as the UMBAS secretary for the last two years, working alongside other board members to build a strong foundation for UMBAS.

Leslie Kirkland, M.B.A. ’18

Vice President 

Director, Information Technology, Director of Revenue Cycle, Front End, University of Miami
Leslie Kirkland has the desire to extend her knowledge and enthusiasm to bring the value-added experience needed to assist the President and actively support the goals of the UM Black Alumni Society. Leslie is dedicated to education and routinely volunteers with her local elementary school, focusing on fundraising activities and mentoring while traveling throughout Florida. Additionally, Leslie is a longstanding leader at the U and throughout the community, serving as president and supervising the operational and fiscal management of her Homeowners Association for more than 20 years.

Alana Smith, B.S. ’05

Secretary

School Psychologist, Wake County School System
Alana Smith is one of the biggest supporters of the U, whether it be as a student, employee or alumna. She is always willing to stand in when needed for her alma mater. As a student on campus, she was involved in multiple organizations, including serving as a charter member of the Tau Rho Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Alana always gives her all. She is dedicated, compassionate, creative, and discerning. Her promptness and her organizational, communication, and presentation skills are what make her a superb fit as secretary of the UM Black Alumni Society.

Asgar Ali, B.B.A. ’05

Fundraising Chair, Treasurer

Vice President, Deutsche Bank-Data Risk Management Americas
Asgar Ali’s heart is definitely at the U! He always makes himself available when asked and always goes above and beyond. He has been spotlighted as a UTrailblazer by the UM Office of Development & Alumni Relations and most recently led a panel discussion on finance for the 2021 Black Alumni Reunion virtual. Asgar is a strong individual, knowledgeable leader and connected alumnus that will be a valued asset to the UMBAS Executive Board.

Dr. George Koonce, Jr., M.S. Ed. ’70, Ed.D. ’76

Executive at Large

Retired past-principal, district director, region superintendent and assistant superintendent of the Florida School System.
Dr. George Koonce has had excellent experiences in working with alumni associations. He is a life member, former chapter, and national president of the Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, Georgia. In 2013, George played a key role as vice-chair of the Class of 1963 50-year reunion, most notable for leading the generation of more than $60,000 for scholarships. In his work with non-profits, George chaired a national search committee that led to hiring a CEO for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). As president of FVSU Alumni, George also participated in selecting Dr. Cleveland Pettigrew as university president.

Wendy-Ann Dixon-DuBoi, A.B. ’06

Immediate Past President

Director of Communications, NewSchools Venture Fund
Wendy-Ann Dixon-DuBoi is one of the most qualified individuals to help lead a dynamic group of University of Miami Black alumni. During her time at the U, she served as United Black Students president, which was selected as “Organization of the Year.” This experience translated into deep and lasting relationships with the UMBAS alumni base across generations. A donor, she practices what she preaches and always supports fundraising opportunities and events for UMBAS. During her time as president of UMBAS, she spoke to not only generations past but to younger alumni who want to feel engaged, promoted relevant programming, and supported our Black students at the University of Miami.