Fueled by purpose, driven to serve—Naphtali is using education and philanthropy to uplift others
Naphtali Bryant is a proud first-generation college graduate who has made it his mission to give back to the same educational community that helped shape his journey. His story is one of resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. He's the proud recipient of the Hall & Pat Hammond Scholarship, supporting especially first-generation and high-achieving learners.
Born in Grand Forks, North Dakota, as a military child, Naphtali’s parents were later stationed in San Antonio, where he was raised. He graduated from Judson High School in 1997 and was a member of the 1995 State Champion Football team. He initially attended St. Philip’s College that same year, but life’s circumstances—including marriage, parenthood, divorce, and a decade spent in a dead-end job—delayed his educational path. In 2010, he made the decision to return to school and pursue his academic goals.
"Your investment in my education extends far beyond me; it reaches the students I serve now and those I will support through my future nonprofit. Thank you for believing in my journey and in the power of education to transform lives”
Through the Alamo Colleges, Naphtali experienced transformative opportunities early in his academic journey, including attending a student leadership conference at Yale University in 2014, and studying abroad in Taiwan and China in 2015. These experiences fueled his passion for higher education and leadership development.
In 2019, Naphtali joined the Alamo Colleges as part-time employee in Student Success, and his impact was quickly recognized. He was promoted to Senior Specialist in 2021 and honored with the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award in 2022 for his outstanding contributions to student success; this award is affirmed by his passion, skill, and positive influence in higher education.
Today, he serves as the Childcare Scholarship Coordinator for United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, supporting more than 70 scholars—nearly half of whom are currently enrolled in or transitioning from the Alamo Colleges system. His professional and academic paths are converging in powerful ways as he pursues a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Operations Management, with graduation anticipated in Spring 2026.
With a vision for the future, Naphtali plans to launch a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping college students successfully navigate their educational journeys. His lived experience, leadership background, and current work at United Way uniquely position him to make a lasting impact. Driven by community and purpose, Naphtali is using education as a springboard to uplift others. With gratitude for foundation donors’ belief in his vision, he continues forward—committed to turning support into service.