LaNiece Tyree, MPA, CASP, Howard's assistant vice president for Auxiliary Enterprises, was recently elected president of the National Association of College Auxiliary Services (NACAS), making her both the first woman of color and the first HBCU leader in the role.

College auxiliary services are the operations within a college that enhance the learning and living environment, such as dining, housing, and transportation services as well as the campus bookstore. These often operate in partnership with an outside company who is responsible for day-to-day functions and may generate significant revenue for the college.

Elected on October 29 during the C3X Annual Conference and Expo in Kissimmee, Florida, Tyree now leads the association’s 12-member board, providing strategic oversight and direction for key initiatives and shaping the future of auxiliary services in higher education. Taking on the highest NACAS leadership role, she will guide the organization in its mission to support higher education professionals in auxiliary services across North America. 

In her acceptance remarks — quoted in the November NACAS press release —Tyree reflected on the significance of her election and expressed excitement about the future of the association. “As the first woman of color and the first leader from an HBCU in this position, I’m honored to be part of this historic moment. Right now, with Rich Steele as NACAS CEO, we are continuing the work of Dr. Wright L. Lassiter, Jr. and pushing NACAS into a future where equity, inclusion, and collaboration drive our mission.” 

At the C3X conference, Tyree was also honored with the association’s Dr. Wright L. Lassiter Jr. Legacy Award, as well as its East Regional Mentor Award. The legacy award, named for a founder, is given annually to an individual who “exemplifies Dr. Lassiter’s vision, leadership, and commitment to service,” while the mentor award goes to a NACAS member who has “gone above and beyond to welcome new members and encourage greater involvement at the regional and national levels.”  She is also a past winner of the East Region Rising Star Award.

Explore more:

• HBCU Buzz (December 19, 2024): Howard University’s LaNiece Tyree Becomes First Woman of Color to Lead NACAS
• Black Enterprise (January 10, 2023): Black woman from Howard U appointed as vice president of National Association of College Auxiliary Services.
•