The Black Alumni Association of Arcadia University

A native of South Philadelphia, a graduate of Overbrook High School and Arcadia University (2006), David has constantly strived for success in his career by using his life experiences as constant motivation. His ingrained mantra, what he instills in his mentees, is “Life is short, decisions are long”; everything you do creates a potential path in your life – the decisions you make matter not just today, but for your future. David is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., currently serving as the Delaware State Director, and serves the Alumni Association of Arcadia University as a member of the Leadership Council and Chair of the Nominations Committee.

David believes in the life principle, that you should “Enjoy Life because Life should be fun!” It is this, along with his mantra, that drives David to be the best version of himself every day and experience as much happiness in this world as possible.

As a lifelong Philadelphia, PA resident, Sonya’s affiliation with Arcadia University began as being a part of the Beaver-Leeds Scholars program.  After earning a degree in Political Science, she began her career in public service with the City of Philadelphia.  For the past 17 years, she has served in numerous roles; currently acting as an Administrative Officer for the Department of Human Services.  In addition to being a fan of Arcadia, Sonya is a loyal Philadelphia Eagles fan-Go Birds.

Latasha is married to Allen Shears III and together they raise their children, Allen and Tori. She is passionate about helping others which is rooted in Christian principles of forgiveness, community, and love. Latasha commands a lifestyle complete with God’s blessings, joy, compassion for others, and free from negativity. Her hobbies include reading, watching television/movies, listening to music, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

Biography forthcoming.

Karen is currently a Literacy Coach & School Equity Leader for the School District of Philadelphia. She is passionate about community service, advocacy, and developing relationships through mentoring programs. Karen is excited to serve on the Community Service Committee for BAAAU and is dedicated to enhancing the black student experience at Arcadia and enhancing our VOICE on campus and within the larger community.

Dr. Latasha Shears is a Philadelphia native, author, researcher, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Latasha’s professional background includes 20 years of experience managing grant portfolios for the federal government, nonprofit sector, and higher education. In 2018, she joined the Office of Head Start in the Administration for Children & Families, Department of Health & Human Services where she oversees $2 billion dollars in federal funding for over 70,000 children and families across Region III.

Dr. Shears earned her EdD in Education, Leadership & Management from Drexel University. She also holds two master’s degrees from Temple University in Public Health Education and Organizational Development, and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Arcadia University (Class of 2001, Honors Program).

Aliyah Abraham ’17 has contributed significantly to Arcadia University as a recent graduate, including the visioning and founding of the Black Alumni Association, bringing to life the Black Alumni Association’s Preview Travel Support Program which philanthropically supports Black student participation in attending one of Arcadia’s signature study away programs, and working to launch the University’s Knights for Nutrition food pantry.

Aliyah also serves on the Strategic Planning Committee of the Alumni Association Advisory Council and advocates for students and alumni alike on the University’s Justice-Equity-Diversity-and-Inclusion Commission. Aliyah is the 2021 recipient of the Black Alumni Association’s Sankofa Award and is an active philanthropist, mentor, and leader who tirelessly shares her time, vision, and talent with the Arcadia community.