Installation of Officers
Sherman Bonds
During the homecoming weekend, Dr. Sherman Bonds was inaugurated for a second term as president of the Lincoln University (MO) Alumni Association, Inc. Dr. Bonds holds two degrees from Lincoln University (B.S. in Psychology, 1980; M.A. in Sociology/Criminal Justice, 1981). He also pursued post-graduate studies at the University of West Georgia (M.Ed. in Special Education, 1998) and obtained his doctorate from Clark Atlanta University (Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, 2002). Additionally, he completed leadership training at Harvard University and Manchester College (Oxford University) in England. Dr. Bonds is the accomplished author of two books: “Planting Seeds for Scholars, I Want to be a Doctor When I Grow Up” and “An Expression of Pedagogy: A Theory of Acceptable Losses – Elements of the African American Diaspora.”
Throughout his first term, Dr. Bonds was crucial in spearheading a national student scholarship campaign. His leadership and our collective efforts surpassed the $100,000.00 goal and granted over $150,000.00 to eligible students living in residential halls. This remarkable achievement is a testament to our shared commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders. Additionally, he contributed to the successful organization of a National Alumni Convention in Kansas City, Missouri, which generated a profit of more than $22,000.00. Our efforts have also contributed to recruiting and enrolling numerous students nationwide.
During Dr. Bonds’s tenure, he has significantly expanded opportunities for fellow alumni to become financial life members. In 2023, financial membership experienced a remarkable growth of over 120%, reflecting the increasing support for our cause. We are confident that under his continued leadership, others will also come forward to support their alma mater. In his second term, he aims to spearhead a robust campaign to revitalize chapters where many of our leaders have aged out of their roles. Collaborating with the membership, he will identify new leaders for these communities.
The sustainability of our organization is of utmost importance. We must remain vigilant, determined, and committed to this goal. Our alumni support is not just important, it is integral to our success. We cannot afford to be apathetic, disheartened, or neglect our legacy. The foundation upon which we stand demands perseverance, steadfastness, and resolve. These principles shape our values and actions, and our culture reflects this commitment. With great privilege comes great responsibility. I look forward to your continued support.
Alexis A. Wells
At the 2024 Homecoming celebration, Alexis A. Wells, a highly qualified individual, was appointed National Secretary of the Lincoln University (MO) Alumni Association, Incorporation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Lincoln University of Missouri and a master’s in organizational communication from Bowie State University. Her academic prowess is further complemented by her active membership in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metro Lincoln University Alumni Chapter.
The ties to Lincoln University held great significance for her, shaping her role in the Alumni Association with deep personal meaning. As a devoted graduate of Lincoln University, she actively participated in various activities, such as serving as a radio personality at KJLU, being a member of the Royal Court of Kappa Kappa Psi, holding two terms as Director of entertainment on the Campus Activity Board, and joining the NAACP. This strong connection with the institution has created a lasting bond. The legacy of Lincoln University is an integral part of her family, with her sisters, mother, stepfather, and stepbrother all proudly identifying as Lincolnites.
Alexis matriarchal lineage has made significant contributions to the Lincoln University Cooperative Extension, actively participating in various agricultural endeavors. Alexis great-grandmother, who passed away nearly a decade ago at the age of 103, dedicated her time to volunteering with Lincoln University through 4H and was recognized with awards from the university in 1952. Furthermore, Lincoln University’s Agricultural Department acknowledged her maternal grandfather and his brother during the same era for their contributions as farmers. In addition, Alexis paternal grandparents sent their son to Lincoln Institute for high school before Lincoln University became Lincoln University in 1921, and their daughter later graduated from Lincoln University.
Driven by a strong vision, Alexis stepped into her role as Secretary with a clear goal in mind. She is determined to foster a sense of unity and pride among alumni, firmly believing that active participation and engagement within the alumni community are crucial for the Association’s success. Her inspiring belief in the collective power of alums to support and enhance the Association’s mission will surely motivate us all to contribute to our alma mater’s success.
Alexis has been officially installed as the newly appointed National Secretary of the Lincoln University Alumni Association. She is enthusiastic about bringing positive change and sustaining the Association’s rich traditions. Her commitment to the motto “Always True, Always Blue. We Will Always Be LU” is a testament to her dedication and energy in serving our alma mater.
Ms. ElMaria Martinez
Ms. ElMaria Martinez was appointed Vice President of the National Alumni Association at the 78th National Alumni Convention on June 28, 2025. Her journey with Lincoln University commenced as a student, where she demonstrated exceptional academic and athletic skills, supported by a combination of academic and basketball scholarships. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems in 1994 and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 1996. Throughout her collegiate years, ElMaria’s commitment to excellence was evidenced through her involvement as a Woman of Distinction, Senior Queen, and member of the Noir Fashion and Dance Troupe.
Since joining the alumni association in 2017, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to service. In 2023, she was elected President of the Dallas Alumni Chapter. ElMaria attributes her ability to develop solutions, her creativity, and her adaptability to a diverse range of personal, cultural, and professional experiences. Originally from St. Louis, MO, she moved to New York a few years after earning her MBA and lived there for 18 years. Her career includes various professional and leadership roles in Consumer Products, Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, and Information Technology.
For her, this new role is more than just a title; it symbolizes a deep commitment to serving with dedication and integrity. She focuses on supporting student success, strengthening the alumni network, and building bridges. Outside of her professional and alumni duties, ElMaria enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending lively parties, listening to music, cooking, and traveling. She lives in Midlothian, TX, with her husband, Nelson, who has been her partner for 22 years, and their adorable fur baby, Daisy. Together, they are proud parents of three sons.
Charles E. Glasper, Sr.
Charles E. Glasper, Sr., a native of Lilbourn, Missouri, was first elected National Treasurer of The 1866 Alumni Association, Inc. (formerly called Lincoln University (MO) Alumni Association, Inc.) in March 2019 for a three-year term. He was re-elected in March 2022 for a second three-year term. After serving two distinguished terms, Charles was appointed National Treasurer Emeritus during the 78th National Alumni Convention held in St. Louis, Missouri, the week of June 26-29, 2025.
During Charles’s first two terms, he achieved three main goals: (1) launching a nationwide online election system that allows alumni to vote via computer or mobile device; (2) creating and launching a comprehensive online registration system for the national alumni convention, enabling participants to select and purchase registration packages and order commemorative souvenir journal advertisements online; and (3) establishing a national online financial platform where alumni, associates, and friends can pay dues or make donations electronically, offering an alternative to mailing checks to a P.O. Box. Moreover, he organized an inaugural ceremony for the installation of national officers. One of his goals during his historic third term is to lead a team in developing and launching the official website for the national alumni association.
Throughout his tenure, Charles has shown unwavering commitment, integrity, and vision in his leadership. His time as National Treasurer is distinguished by responsible management of resources and dedication to modernizing the Association’s financial operations and strengthening alumni connections. Charles’s expertise and passion for service have made a lasting impact on the organization, inspiring both new and seasoned members alike.
Charles is an active member of the Jefferson City Alumni Chapter and has maintained a lifetime membership in the National Alumni Association since 1992. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1972 and his Master of Business Administration degree in 1978, both from Lincoln University.
Professionally, Charles is employed at the U.S. Department of Education (Region VII, Kansas City, MO) in the Federal Student Aid and Audit Resolution/Program Compliance Division. He audits complex and problematic financial statements at vocational and proprietary schools, colleges, and universities across a six-state region to ensure that institutions comply with all Higher Education Act and Title IV Federal Student Aid regulations. Before working for the federal government, Charles held various administrative roles at Lincoln University. During his tenure, he held the positions of Financial Aid Counselor, Supervisor of Student Loans, Director of Student Accounts, Director of Accounting Services, and Director of the Admissions, Financial Aid, Recruitment, and Veterans Affairs Office. In the mid-1980s, Charles and his staff set a school enrollment record of 4,106 students, a record that remains in place to this day. He believes that his interactive leadership style, as demonstrated by setting the enrollment record and serving as National Treasurer, is one of his most notable contributions to the university and the association.
Beyond his professional activities, Charles has served as Treasurer of the Jefferson City Alumni Chapter and Co-chair of the chapter’s annual fundraising committee. He was also trusted with the responsibilities of treasurer for the Lincoln University Alumni Association’s National Conventions in 2003, 2010, and 2013. Additionally, in 2012, Charles conducted a financial audit of the National Alumni Association.
Charles has been active in community and civic organizations. He is the Chairman of the Second Baptist Church Scholarship Committee, Chairman of the Audit Committee, and a Sunday School teacher for high school students. He also served as a former Superintendent of the Sunday School Department. For over twelve years, he was the Comptroller and Treasurer of his esteemed fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated–Beta Zeta Lambda Foundation. He is a former board member of the Community Health Center of Central Missouri and a past Vice President of the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel. Lastly, Charles was the President of the East Elementary School Parents and Teachers Organization (PTO).
In his leisure time, Charles is passionate about cross-country motorcycling. He has traveled to forty-six states and visited Toronto and Vancouver in Canada. Charles lives in Jefferson City with his wife, Mildred. They are proud parents of two adult sons and grandparents to four grandchildren.