AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation Hosts First Student-Athlete Leadership Conference in Atlanta

AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation Unveils Inaugural Leadership Conference

In a significant effort to bolster the potential of Atlanta's youth, the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation, led by All-Pro cornerback AJ Terrell Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons, is set to host its inaugural Student-Athlete Leadership Conference. Scheduled for September 26, 2026, this event will take place at the Loudermilk Conference Center and aims to empower approximately 350 high school student-athletes.

Continuing his commitment to community service, AJ Terrell Jr. has made impactful strides, culminating in his recognition as the 2025 Atlanta Falcons Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. The upcoming conference will focus on equipping these young individuals with not only athletic skills but also essential resources, knowledge, and leadership capabilities that extend beyond sports.

Katie Saez, the regional president for Truist, a key partner in this initiative, emphasized the importance of purpose-driven partnerships in creating opportunities for youth. “At Truist, we believe in providing meaningful support that helps young people build confidence and prepares them for successful futures,” she stated, affirming the bank's commitment to investing in the local community alongside the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation.

The conference will mark the launch of the 2026–2027 AJT Academy year and will feature the induction of The 24, a selective program that identifies 24 exemplary student-athletes from participating schools. These young leaders will be chosen based on their demonstrated leadership potential, resilience, character, academic commitment, and their ability to positively impact their communities.

Among the schools represented at the conference will be Westlake High School, Frederick Douglass High School and Benjamin E. Mays High School. The initiative will also provide a platform for a diverse group of stakeholders, including academic and athletic coaches, school administrators, and community partners, all of whom will collaborate to boost the student-athletes' growth and leadership journey.

Executive Director of the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation, Ashly Cargle-Thompson, remarked on the collective effort needed to create better opportunities. “The AJT Academy Student-Athlete Leadership Conference reflects what can happen when schools, families, coaches, and community partners unite for a shared purpose. Closing opportunity gaps requires a community approach,” she stated.

Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the conference will encompass informative and engaging workshops focusing on crucial topics such as mental health, financial literacy, and professional development. Notably, student-athletes will have the chance to enhance their professional profiles by receiving complimentary headshots from Cam Kirk Studios, aiding them in their journey to establish a personal brand.

The AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation is dedicated to shaping a brighter future for Atlanta's youth. Committed to addressing educational gaps and fostering community solutions, the foundation partners with various organizations to provide invaluable resources, leadership development, and ongoing support. By investing in the next generation, they aim to create equitable opportunities that will empower young individuals and uplift the entire community.

For further details about the foundation and its initiatives, visit ajtfoundation.org.

Additionally, Truist Financial Corporation, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, is recognized for its commitment to improving lives and communities through financial services. As a leading commercial bank, Truist continues to play a vital role in the local economy, serving various sectors with a broad range of banking, investment, and lending services. Their collaboration with the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation underscores their mission to inspire and build better lives for communities.

In conclusion, the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation's inaugural Student-Athlete Leadership Conference represents a momentous step for Atlanta's youth, offering them the tools and support they need to thrive within and beyond their sports endeavors.