Atlanta isn’t just a soccer city—it’s a city of culture, resilience, and Black excellence. And when it comes to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the city boasts an unparalleled legacy. With four HBCUs—Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Spelman College—woven into its very fabric, Atlanta has long been a beacon for Black scholars and professionals. That legacy runs deep, even within Atlanta United and its parent company, Arthur M. Blank Sports & Entertainment (AMBSE), where more than 35 HBCU alumni contribute their talent, passion, and leadership.
On April 5, Atlanta United will celebrate that excellence at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, honoring the HBCU grads who fuel the club’s success behind the scenes. From premium services to marketing, from human resources to stadium operations, these trailblazers embody the HBCU spirit of determination, legacy, and community. We caught up with a few of them to hear their stories—tales of grit, growth, and game-changing moments that brought them to Atlanta’s soccer scene.
Amber Johnson (Clark Atlanta University) – Director of Human Resources, Atlanta United
Hailing from Detroit, Amber Johnson always had her eyes set on attending an HBCU. Clark Atlanta University became the launchpad for her success, instilling a relentless drive in her.
“Find a way or make a way.” That’s the school motto—and Amber lives by it. “Moving to Atlanta and attending Clark shaped me. It made me fearless. It gave me the foundation I needed, both professionally and personally,” she says. As a mother and HR director, she applies that mindset daily, helping cultivate the diverse and inclusive culture that makes Atlanta United special.
Nate Davis (Delaware State University) – Senior Premium Services Manager, AMBSE
For Nate Davis, a single movie moment sparked a career shift.
“I saw Jerry Maguire on my college campus, and suddenly, sports management was my path,” he recalls. Delaware State’s motto—“Make your mark on the world”—became his own guiding principle. Now, years later, he manages premium experiences for both Atlanta United and the Falcons, proving that hard work and vision can take you from an HBCU classroom to the frontlines of pro sports entertainment.
Ivy Scott (Clark Atlanta University) – Director of Integrated Marketing, Atlanta United
If there’s one thing Ivy Scott knows, it’s the power of community. At Clark Atlanta, she found not just an education but a lifelong network. Whether it’s Homecoming—a sacred tradition—or her sisterhood in Alpha Kappa Alpha, the connections forged there continue to shape her today.
“HBCUs are family,” Ivy says. “And in the sports world, those relationships matter. My path to Atlanta United started with the ties I built at Clark, and that’s something I carry with me every day.”
Timothy Blackmon (South Carolina State University) – Director of Private Events Services & Special Projects, AMBSE
Timothy Blackmon didn’t just attend an HBCU—he continued a family legacy. With both his mother and brother as South Carolina State alums, he understood early on that excellence isn’t just about personal success; it’s about lifting others up.
“HBCUs create role models,” he explains. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without seeing people like me doing great things.” Now, he’s in a leadership role at one of the biggest sports organizations in the country, proving that mentorship and representation make all the difference.
Kamryn Boone (Howard University) – HBCU Fellows Program, Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Kamryn Boone is on a mission to ensure HBCUs remain a vital part of AMBSE’s identity. A Howard University graduate, she knows firsthand the power of Black institutions in shaping leaders.
“Walking the same halls as Kamala Harris, Chadwick Boseman, and Andrew Young? It inspires you,” Kamryn says. “HBCUs produce greatness, and it’s important that we shine a light on that.”
Celebrating Black Excellence, Atlanta Style
From the pitch to the front office, Atlanta United is more than a club—it’s a reflection of the city’s energy, diversity, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Honoring HBCUs isn’t just about looking back; it’s about recognizing how their legacy continues to shape Atlanta’s sports scene today.
On April 5, as the Five Stripes take the field, the stadium will be filled with more than just soccer chants—it’ll be filled with the spirit of excellence, the echoes of history, and the pride of a city that never stops pushing forward. Because in Atlanta, Black excellence isn’t just a tradition—it’s the game plan for the future.
