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Ajohnee Rodney - 40 under 40

Administration Rodney Kirschner Deputy Athletics Director | Director of Strategic Communications | Sports Information Director

Southern University Athletics' Ajohnee Rodney Named to Baton Rouge Business Report's 2026 Forty Under 40

Administration Rodney Kirschner Deputy Athletics Director | Director of Strategic Communications | Sports Information Director

Southern University Athletics' Ajohnee Rodney Named to Baton Rouge Business Report's 2026 Forty Under 40

BATON ROUGE, La. – Southern University Athletics is proud to announce that Ajohnee Rodney, Chief of Staff and Associate Athletic Director for Administration, has been named a 2026 Forty Under 40 honoree by the Baton Rouge Business Report.

The annual Forty Under 40 recognition celebrates outstanding young professionals across the Capital Region who demonstrate excellence in their careers, leadership within their industries, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the community.

Rodney, a two-time Southern University graduate, has established herself as an emerging leader in collegiate athletics, bringing more than eight years of experience in administration, strategic planning, fundraising, corporate partnerships, and organizational leadership. In her current role, she works closely with the Director of Athletics and executive leadership team to advance departmental initiatives, strengthen operations, and enhance the overall Southern University Athletics experience.

Among her notable contributions is her leadership of the Southern University Athletics Gala, one of the department's premier fundraising and engagement events. As chair, Rodney has played an instrumental role in the event's continued growth, bringing together alumni, corporate partners, community leaders, and supporters to generate resources for Southern Athletics.

Her leadership also extends to the development and execution of signature departmental initiatives, including the annual Southern Athletics Sports Summit and Women in Sports programming, both designed to promote professional development, collaboration, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.

Throughout her career, Rodney has received several professional distinctions, including selection for the 2026 National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Senior Administrator Mentor Institute and the 2024 Women Leaders in Sports Leadership Enhancement Institute. She was also a recipient of the 2024 Women Leaders in Sports Women of Color Scholarship and participated in the Baton Rouge Area Foundation's Development Fellowship program. Her leadership and community involvement also include the 2026 BRAF Nonprofit Board Chair program.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Rodney is committed to mentorship and community service. She actively supports young women pursuing careers in sports and has contributed to charitable initiatives, including the Fork Cancer and Flower Fest planning committees.

A proud graduate of Southern University, Rodney earned her bachelor's degree in 2013 and a Master of Public Administration in 2016. Her recognition reflects not only her professional accomplishments but also her commitment to serving the Baton Rouge community and creating opportunities for future leaders.

Rodney's selection as a 2026 Forty Under 40 honoree further highlights the leadership and impact of Southern University Athletics professionals beyond competition and reinforces the department's commitment to excellence, service, and community engagement.

About Southern University Athletics
Southern University Athletics is committed to developing champions in competition, in the classroom, and in life while providing exceptional experiences for student-athletes, supporters, and the broader Jaguar community.
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