DETROIT -- Wayne State University Assistant Athletic Director for Mental Health and Wellness Nikki Trammell has been selected to participate in the 2026 Rising Star Academy by the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA).
"I am incredibly honored to be selected for the 2026 MOAA Rising Star Academy and to represent Wayne State University among such a talented group of emerging leaders in collegiate athletics," commented Trammell. "As an embedded mental health clinician, I serve in a role that is both new and rapidly growing within athletic programs across the country. Mental health professionals bring a unique perspective to athletics by centering holistic student-athlete well-being alongside performance and long-term success.
"I am excited to use this opportunity to continue advocating for student-athletes and to help keep the importance of supportive environments for both student-athletes and staff at the forefront of the conversation, while continuing efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. The Rising Star Academy will allow me to learn from some of the best leaders in the industry while gaining tools and insights that will directly impact the athletes and community I serve every day.
"I'm excited to continue building, learning, and advocating for spaces where student-athletes can truly thrive."
MOAA RELEASE
The Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) is proud to announce the selected participants for the 2026 Rising Star Academy. This prestigious program, described by MOAA President Tim Wise as "an exciting opportunity to develop and equip leaders to manage the changes in our industry" is designed to support the early career development of promising athletic administrators through a series of virtual and in-person educational sessions and workshops.
Selected Participants:
- Nya Buckner, Oregon State UniversityÂ
- Nadia Hopkins, University of Maryland
- Tyler Iverson, University of Texas at Arlington
- Amari Jackson, University of TulsaÂ
- Kameron Jones, University of Texas, AustinÂ
- Quenton Moore, University of Arkansas Pine BluffÂ
- Shaniya Taylor, Berry CollegeÂ
- Nikki Trammell, Wayne State University
- Bryce Williams, Grambling State UniversityÂ
- Jovan Williams, Maryville University
"We are excited to welcome the next great group of professionals to the 2026 Rising Star Academy," said Tim Wise Assistant General Manager Allegiant Stadium and MOAA President. "Their commitment and devotion to their professional growth is exhilarating.  We look forward to these talented administrators making a difference and leading the path to the future of collegiate athletics."
Academy Goal: The MOAA Rising Star Academy emphasizes professional development for participants throughout the academic year, both personally and professionally. The program aims to equip entry-level administrators, early in their careers (0-5 years), with the skills to add value to their brand, position themselves for their next career move, and understand the "unwritten rules" of the industry.
Program Highlights:Â Participants will receive personalized training from respected industry veterans, addressing frequently asked questions such as, "What do you know now that you wish you would have known when you first started your career in athletics?"Â This program is an incredible opportunity for young professionals to gain insights and mentorship from experienced leaders.
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