NAfME Collegiate Fall Membership Rally

Join NAfME Collegiate members and advisors from around the country during NAfME Collegiate Kickoff Week for an exciting back-to-school virtual rally! Get to know your Collegiate Advisory Council representatives, hear from your national leadership, and enjoy a special message from keynote speaker Dr. Benny Bolden.

Invite your chapter and prepare for the most inspiring back-to-school event yet! Continue to prepare for this year’s NAfME Collegiate Kickoff Week and follow NAfME Collegiate on Instagram (@nafmecollegiateofficial) and Facebook (@cnafme.)

Keynote Speaker:

Dr. Benny L. Bolden, Jr. is a nationally acclaimed educational leader, award-winning music educator, and equity-driven changemaker. A Miami native and Florida A&M alumnus, Dr. Bolden’s leadership journey spans award-winning band programs and transformative school turnarounds. As Principal of R. Frank Nims Middle School, he led the campus from near-failing to a historic “B” rating, doubling enrollment and spearheading $12 million in improvements.

His musical ensembles have performed at Carnegie Hall, the Super Bowl, and for President Barack Obama. As the first African American President of the Florida School Music Association, he continues championing arts equity statewide. Now Director of Interdivisional Support Services and Secondary Schools, he oversees all middle/high schools, athletics, and arts programs in Leon County.

A 2025 Florida TaxWatch Principal of the Year and AASA National Aspiring Superintendent, Dr. Bolden mentors emerging leaders and uplifts student success. He is a proud husband, father of three, and ordained elder devoted to faith, family, and service.

Featured Guest Speakers:

Deb Confredo, NAfME President

Cecil Adderley, NAfME President-Elect

Scott Sheehan, NAfME Immediate Past President