Homecoming Awards
Lifetime Achievement
This prestigious award honors an alumna or alumnus of UNA, or a friend of the University, who has demonstrated a lifetime of exceptional achievements in their career, community, and in service to UNA.
Criteria:
- Must have made significant contributions to their profession, community, and/or society over three or more decades.
- Demonstrates a long-standing commitment to UNA through support, engagement, or advocacy.
- Exemplifies the values and mission of UNA.
2025 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, Sabrina Clark '85
Sabrina Clark, a proud 1985 graduate of the University of North Alabama, is being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her exceptional 40-year career in nursing—marked by clinical expertise, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to patient care and education. Throughout her distinguished career, Sabrina has served in numerous roles—from bedside nurse and mentor to hospital systems collaborator and long-serving clinical supervisor at UNA. Since 1997, she has guided hundreds of nursing students with wisdom, compassion, and a student-first approach, shaping their skills and professional confidence. Respected for her calming presence, especially in labor and delivery, Sabrina embodies the values of the Nightingale Pledge each day. Her legacy is one of excellence, service, and advocacy, making her a most deserving recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Alumnus or Alumna of the Year
This award honors an alumna or alumnus of UNA who has made outstanding contributions in their field or community within the past year.
Criteria:
- Must be a UNA graduate.
- Demonstrates exceptional accomplishments in their career, public service, or volunteerism, and has had a notable impact at a regional, national, or international level in the past year.
- Has positively impacted the UNA community through engagement and support.
- Exemplifies the values and mission of UNA.
2025 Alumnus of the Year Award Winner, Blake McDaniel '97 & '99
Blake McDaniel (CASE ’97, SCOBT ‘99), is being recognized as the 2025 Alumnus of the Year for his industry leadership, creative accomplishments, service to his community, and enduring support of his alma mater. Blake has built a successful career in the entertainment industry, representing legendary artists and creating award-winning film and television content. He has worked on behalf of icons including Bob Dylan, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, and Luke Combs, as well as signing Alabama, Run DMC, NPR, and Ryan Bingham, who went on to win an Oscar, Grammy, and Golden Globe. In addition to his professional success, Blake has remained deeply engaged with UNA as a donor, mentor, advisory board member, and guest lecturer. His legacy is one of creative vision, community investment, and lifelong loyalty to UNA, making him a truly worthy recipient of this honor.
Friend of the University
This award recognizes a non-alumna or non-alumnus (individual or couple) who has provided outstanding service, leadership, or support to UNA.
Criteria:
- Must not be a UNA graduate.
- Has significantly impacted the UNA community through their service, advocacy, and philanthropy.
- Actively engages with and supports UNA’s mission, programs, and initiatives.
- Although not a graduate of UNA, they exemplify the values and mission of UNA.
2025 Friend of the University Award Winner, Briget McCabe
Briget McCabe is being honored as the 2025 Friend of the University in recognition of her generous spirit, thoughtful philanthropy, and genuine connection to UNA’s mission. Briget’s relationship with UNA began decades ago when she and her late husband would listen to the UNA marching band practice near Pine Street. That affection grew into a meaningful philanthropic relationship with the university – one shaped by both passion and purpose. Inspired by her family’s legacy, she has made significant contributions to the Marching Pride Band, the Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions in memory of her late mother, and the Department of Engineering in memory of her late husband—investments that reflect both heart and purpose. Briget’s support goes beyond giving; she stays actively involved with campus leaders, opens her home to the university community, and encourages student creativity through personal engagement. Briget’s warmth, humility, and enduring generosity exemplify what it means to be a true friend of the university.
Young Alumnus or Alumna of the Year
This award honors a recent graduate who has demonstrated exceptional achievements in their early career and ongoing dedication to UNA.
Criteria:
- Must have graduated from UNA within the past 10 years and be under the age of 35.
- Shows early career excellence and leadership in their profession or community.
- Actively engages with and supports UNA’s mission, programs, and initiatives.
- Exemplifies the values and mission of UNA.
2025 Young Alumnus Award Winner, Lamonte Thompson '16
Lamonte Thompson, a 2016 UNA graduate and Florence native, is being recognized as the 2025 Young Alumni of the Year for his achievements as an athlete, entrepreneur, and community role model. After earning a full scholarship and excelling on the field at UNA, Lamonte fulfilled a lifelong dream by signing with the Baltimore Ravens in 2016. He later founded LT Custom Cabinets, LLC—a thriving business he launched at just 25 years old, known for its craftsmanship and also for its resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lamonte remains active with UNA, serving as a guest speaker and inspiring future alumni with his story of determination, growth, and giving back. Lamonte embodies the strength, vision, and impact of UNA’s young alumni community.
Promising Alumni
