The AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation Announces Inaugural Student-Athlete Leadership Conference and The 24 Induction Presented by Truist

ATLANTA, Sept. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta Falcons All-Pro cornerback AJ Terrell Jr. continues to expand his commitment to Atlanta's youth through the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation, building upon the community impact that led to his recognition as the 2025 Atlanta Falcons Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Club Winner.

On Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, about 350 student-athletes will convene at the Loudermilk Conference Center in Atlanta for the inaugural AJT Academy Student-Athlete Leadership Conference presented by Truist, an immersive day designed to equip high school student-athletes with resources, knowledge and leadership skills that extend beyond the field of play.

"At Truist, we believe purpose-driven partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for young people to build confidence, strengthen leadership skills and prepare for their futures," said Katie Saez, Truist regional president for Georgia and Alabama. "We're proud to support AJ Terrell Jr. and the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation as they invest in student-athletes across Atlanta and help equip them with tools that extend far beyond the game."

The conference will officially launch the 2026–2027 AJT Academy year and culminate with the induction of The 24, a leadership and ambassador program that selects 24 student-athletes from each participating school based on their leadership potential, resilience, character, academic commitment, and ability to positively influence their campus and community.

Participating student-athletes will represent Westlake High School, Frederick Douglass High School and Benjamin E. Mays High School. The conference will also bring together academic athletic coaches, athletic directors, school administrators and athletic coaches, AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation leadership, program partners and invited community stakeholders.

"The AJT Academy Student-Athlete Leadership Conference reflects what can happen when schools, families, coaches, and community partners come together around a shared purpose," says Ashly Cargle-Thompson, Executive Director of the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation. "Closing opportunity gaps takes all of us, and we believe sports should be a launch pad, not an escape hatch, for young people to lead with empathy, reach their full potential, and create lasting change in their communities."

The conference will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Loudermilk Conference Center, 40 Courtland St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303. Programming will feature a series of informational and interactive workshops focused on mental health and well-being, financial literacy and education, and professional development. Student-athletes will also receive complimentary professional headshots provided by Cam Kirk Studios, helping participants begin building their professional presence and personal brand.

About the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation

The AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation is committed to advancing Atlanta's future by investing in its greatest asset, its youth. Through strategic programming and collaborative partnerships with organizations of all sizes, we provide essential resources, leadership development, and sustainable support systems. By fostering community-driven solutions, we aim to create lasting, equitable opportunities that empower the next generation and strengthen the city as a whole. For more information, visit: ajtfoundation.org 

About Truist

Truist Financial Corporation is a purpose-driven financial services company committed to inspiring and building better lives and communities. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Truist has leading market share in many of the high-growth markets in the U.S. and offers a wide range of products and services through wholesale and consumer businesses, including consumer and small business banking, commercial and corporate banking, investment banking and capital markets, wealth management, payments, and specialized lending businesses. Truist is a top 10 commercial bank with total assets of $556 billion as of June 30, 2026. Truist Bank, Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Learn more at Truist.com 

SOURCE AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation