A DIFFERENT ROAR. A LASTING LEGACY.
PINE BLUFF, AR. – Excellence, leadership, service and a lasting connection to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff are qualities that extend far beyond the classroom, playing field and campus.
The UAPB Department of Athletics continues to recognize individuals who represent those values while making meaningful contributions in education, business, professional sports, community leadership and entertainment.
As part of its continued commitment to celebrating the people who strengthen the Golden Lion legacy, UAPB Athletics proudly recognizes five distinguished individuals who served as honorary captains during the university's 2026 Homecoming football game against Alabama State.
Dr. Hazell Reed, Kelley Taylor, Terron Armstead, Tanesha Washington Thompson and Karlton Humes each represent a unique story of achievement, leadership and service. Their contributions inspire current student-athletes, alumni, and the entire Golden Lion community.
While Homecoming provided an opportunity to recognize these individuals, their accomplishments and contributions deserve recognition throughout the year.
Dr. Hazell Reed – A Legacy of Educational Leadership and Service
A proud graduate of Arkansas AM&N College, now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Dr. Hazell Reed has devoted his professional career to higher education, agricultural research and advancing opportunities for others.
A former dean and vice chancellor at UAPB, Reed has played an important role in supporting academic excellence, research and institutional advancement.
His leadership and commitment to agricultural education also led to his appointment to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Equity Commission.
Reed's distinguished career reflects the importance of education, leadership and service, values that remain central to the university's mission.
UAPB Athletics extends its appreciation to Reed for his continued connection to the university and his contributions to education and public service.
Kelley Taylor – Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Business Leader
Kelley Taylor has established herself as an influential leader in business, construction management and philanthropy.
As Chief Executive Officer of Taylor Construction Management, Taylor has overseen a company that has managed more than $4 billion in projects worldwide.
Her professional achievements have earned her recognition as one of Houston's Top 30 Influential Women, highlighting her leadership and impact in the business community.
Beyond her business accomplishments, Taylor remains committed to education, philanthropy and supporting initiatives that create opportunities for others.
Her dedication to professional excellence and community involvement reflects the type of leadership UAPB Athletics takes pride in recognizing.
Terron Armstead – From Golden Lion Champion to NFL Excellence
Terron Armstead remains one of the most accomplished student-athletes in UAPB history and continues to represent the Golden Lions through his leadership and commitment to his alma mater.
A member of UAPB's 2012 Southwestern Athletic Conference Football Championship team, Armstead also earned eight SWAC Track and Field Championships during his collegiate career.
Armstead went on to enjoy an outstanding NFL career with the New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins, earning five Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself among the league's premier offensive linemen.
His impact on UAPB Athletics continues through his role as the university's first-ever Golden Lions Athletics Ambassador.
In that capacity, Armstead helps strengthen relationships, elevate the university's athletic profile and inspire current and future Golden Lions.
His journey from Pine Bluff to the NFL serves as a reminder of the opportunities that can develop through determination, discipline and hard work.
Tanesha Washington Thompson – Building Opportunities Through Alumni Leadership
Tanesha Washington Thompson, a proud 1997 graduate of UAPB, has remained deeply committed to strengthening the university through alumni engagement, scholarship initiatives and community service.
As President of the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association, Thompson has helped lead initiatives supporting student success and alumni involvement.
Through her leadership and service, she has helped raise more than $90,000 in student scholarships and more than $200,000 through young alumni initiatives.
In addition to her work with the university, Thompson serves as the Mid-Western Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Her commitment to creating educational opportunities and strengthening alumni connections continues to make a lasting difference for the Golden Lion community.
Karlton Humes – Creativity, Entertainment and National Recognition
Karlton Humes, popularly known as NotKarltonBanks, has developed a growing national following through his creativity, comedic talent and engaging social media content.
A former UAPB student, Humes has made his mark as a comedian, entertainer and digital content creator, gaining recognition for his viral comedy videos and memorable characters.
His entertaining personality and growing popularity have earned him opportunities on national platforms, including an appearance on
The Jennifer Hudson Show.
Through his success in entertainment, Humes demonstrates the value of creativity, originality and pursuing opportunities beyond traditional career paths.
His connection to UAPB adds another dimension to the university's growing network of individuals making an impact across various industries.
A Golden Lion Legacy That Extends Beyond Homecoming
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Department of Athletics takes pride in recognizing individuals whose achievements, leadership and commitment to service continue to make a difference.
Although these five distinguished individuals were recognized during the 2026 Homecoming celebration, their accomplishments represent something much greater than a single event.
Their stories reflect the university's longstanding tradition of developing leaders, building meaningful relationships and celebrating excellence in every field.
UAPB Athletics sincerely appreciates Dr. Hazell Reed, Kelley Taylor, Terron Armstead, Tanesha Washington Thompson, and Karlton Humes for serving as honorary captains and for the inspiration they continue to provide to the Golden Lion Nation.