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News
By UDCNAS
Team UDC Shows Firebird Pride at the 13th Annual HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K
Firebirds came together for fitness, fellowship, and a shared commitment to HBCU excellence.
The University of the District of Columbia National Alumni Society proudly represented Firebird Nation at the 13th Annual Washington, DC HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K Run/Walk & Community Day, joining thousands of HBCU alumni, students, families, and supporters for a morning dedicated to health, community, and scholarship.
Dressed in maroon and gold, Team UDC arrived with one goal—to proudly represent the University while supporting a cause that benefits future generations of HBCU students. From first-time participants to experienced runners and walkers, every Firebird who crossed the starting line helped demonstrate the strength and unity of our alumni community.
The day's excitement began long before race morning. In the weeks leading up to the event, UDCNAS hosted a community practice run at Anacostia Park, giving alumni, family members, and friends an opportunity to train together, build camaraderie, and prepare for race day. That same spirit of encouragement and fellowship carried through to the finish line.
The HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K is about much more than running. It celebrates the rich legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities while raising scholarship support and strengthening relationships among alumni organizations across the Washington metropolitan area.
Throughout the morning, Team UDC welcomed alumni, connected with fellow HBCUs, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere that has made the annual 5K one of the region's signature HBCU events. It was a reminder that the Firebird experience continues well beyond graduation through service, fellowship, and lifelong engagement.
Most importantly, the event showcased what makes UDC special—our people. Every participant, volunteer, supporter, and family member helped create a memorable day filled with laughter, encouragement, and Firebird pride.
As UDCNAS begins a new program year, we're excited to continue creating opportunities that bring our alumni together through networking, service, wellness, and community engagement.
We extend a special thank-you to everyone who proudly represented Team UDC, with special recognition to Dr. Ja'Sent Brown, Trustee Bernard M. Grayson, Jr., and Georgette Joy Johnson, who serve as UDCNAS's liaisons to the Washington DC HBCU Alumni Alliance. Their leadership and dedication helped make Team UDC's participation a tremendous success.
We look forward to seeing even more Firebirds at next year's HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K!
Firebirds on Fire
Betty Entzminger Crowned Ms. Senior DC 2026
A Journey of Perseverance, Purpose, and Firebird Pride
Some accomplishments arrive right on schedule. Others take time, perseverance, and the courage to keep believing. For University of the District of Columbia alumna Betty Entzminger ('18), earning the title of Ms. Senior DC 2026 is proof that dreams have no expiration date.
Entzminger's journey to the crown was inspired by a desire to share a simple but powerful message: it's never too late to pursue your dreams. After returning to the University of the District of Columbia to complete her degree, she discovered that determination and lifelong learning can open doors at every stage of life.
"I wanted to show that dreams don't have an expiration date," she said.
Graduating from UDC in 2018 became a defining chapter in her life. It reaffirmed the value of perseverance and gave her the confidence to embrace new opportunities and step forward as a leader.
Her educational journey also carries deep family significance. Inspired by her mother—a proud graduate of DC Teachers College and Federal City College who raised ten children while pursuing higher education—Entzminger continues a legacy of resilience, leadership, and lifelong learning.
Being crowned Ms. Senior DC 2026 represents far more than winning a title.
"It means everything. It is validation for the long road I traveled. My message is one of hope: never give up on yourself. I want to encourage others to embrace their later chapters with grace, determination, and vigor."
This October, Entzminger will proudly represent the District of Columbia at the Ms. Senior America Pageant, where she looks forward to meeting women from across the country while showcasing the spirit and excellence of Washington, D.C.
For fellow Firebirds and anyone wondering if it's too late to begin again, her advice is simple.
"It is never too late. If I could go back to school after many years and achieve this, anyone can take that first step toward their goal today. Keep moving forward and know the University will always help when faced with challenges!"
Betty Entzminger's story is a reminder that the Firebird spirit doesn't fade after graduation—it continues to inspire, uplift, and soar. We congratulate Betty on this remarkable achievement and wish her the very best as she represents the District of Columbia on the national stage this fall.
Firebirds on Fire
Know a UDC alum doing extraordinary things? We'd love to celebrate them! Nominate a fellow Firebird to be featured in an upcoming Firebirds on Fire spotlight. ❤️💛
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