Events
Stay connected with UDCNAS, through career connections and professional networking, traditional events, and opportunities for involvement. UDCNAS connects you to the people, places, and programs you care about most as a Firebird.
News
By UDCNAS
Shining Bright During UDC Founders’ Week: Celebrating 175 Years of Legacy, Leadership, and Community
Celebrating 175 years is not only about honoring history—it is about recognizing the collective contributions of the alumni, leaders, faculty, and supporters who continue to shape the university’s future.
Preserving History: UDCNAS Curator Tour
One of the highlights of Founders’ Week was the UDCNAS Curator Tour, which provided attendees with a rare opportunity to experience the university’s archives and historical collections up close. The tour allowed alumni and guests to explore pieces of UDC’s story preserved through photographs, documents, and artifacts representing both the university and its predecessor institutions.
The event brought together distinguished guests and longtime supporters of the university, including UDC Board Trustee Bernard Demczuk and Grayson, UDC Distinguished Alumni of the Year Senator Nicholas Charles, and Selcon Waldron, Chair of the UDCNAS UDC & Predecessor Institutions History Committee. Their presence reflected the deep connection many leaders maintain with the institution and its legacy.
Also in attendance were several past members of the UDC Board of Trustees, adding to the significance of the gathering. The curator tour served not only as a celebration of the university’s history but also as a reminder that the legacy of UDC continues to be shaped by generations of alumni who remain actively engaged with the institution.
Celebrating 175 Years at the UDC Gala
UDCNAS was also honored to attend the University of the District of Columbia’s 175th Anniversary Gala, a signature event commemorating the university’s historic milestone.
As the University of the District of Columbia National Alumni Society (a 501(c)(3) organization), we were proud to participate in the celebration as an Innovative Sponsor at the $25,000 level. This investment reflects our continued commitment to supporting the university through scholarships, alumni engagement initiatives, and broader institutional advancement efforts.
While our sponsorship level was not formally announced during the evening’s program, our purpose remains unchanged. Our contribution was made in the spirit of partnership, legacy, and long-term impact.
Support is not about recognition—it is about responsibility. The National Alumni Society remains steadfast in its mission to uplift the university, support its students, and strengthen the alumni network that continues to champion UDC’s success.
Firebirds on Fire
Senator Nicholas P. Charles, II Named UDC's 2026 Alumni Legacy Award Recipient
The University of the District of Columbia proudly announces Senator Nicholas P. Charles, II as the recipient of the 2026 Alumni Legacy Award, recognizing his distinguished career in public service, leadership, and commitment to community advancement.
Senator Charles has served in the Maryland Senate since December 5, 2023, where he is a member of the Judicial Proceedings Committee and the Joint Committee on Children, Youth, and Families. He also holds membership in both the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland and the Maryland Legislative Latino Caucus, and currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Senate Democratic Party Caucus.
His service extends across numerous commissions and task forces, including the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging and Best Practices, the Workgroup on Independent Innovation in Prince George’s County, the Procurement Improvement Council, and the Task Force to Study Fiduciary Adjudication in Maryland.
Previously, Senator Charles represented District 25 in Prince George’s County in the Maryland House of Delegates from 2019 to 2023. During that time, he served on the Ways and Means Committee and the Health and Government Operations Committee, and as Chair of the Prince George’s County Delegation. He also served as Vice-Chair of the Democratic Party Caucus and was an active member of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland.
A native of Washington, DC, Senator Charles attended Largo High School and earned an associate degree in aviation management from the Community College of the Air Force before completing his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration at the University of the District of Columbia. He served honorably in the United States Air Force from 2001 to 2006, including assignments with the 60th Fighter Squadron and the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron during Operation Noble Eagle.
In addition to his legislative career, Senator Charles is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Charles Management Consulting Group and an active participant in numerous professional and civic organizations, including the National Contract Management Association, Prince George’s County Young Democrats, American Legion Post No. 275, Prince Hall Masons, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is also a member of Freedom Way Missionary Baptist Church in Capitol Heights, Maryland.
The Alumni Legacy Award is presented annually at the University of the District of Columbia’s Founders’ Day Convocation and Awards Program to honor an alumnus who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievement, sustained service, and meaningful contributions to their community and the University. The award celebrates individuals whose work reflects the values of leadership, integrity, and impact embodied by UDC.
Through his career in public service and community leadership, Senator Nicholas P. Charles, II exemplifies the spirit of UDC’s alumni legacy. The University is proud to honor him for his continued dedication and achievements.
