On September 16th, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) launched its Signature Event Series under the theme “Speaking Potential into Power.” The event was hosted by UDC President Maurice D. Edington and featured Amber Perry, Regional President of Pepco, as the guest speaker. The discussion was moderated by UDC Student Government Association leaders Toluwalase Adetosoye, President; Akilah Hanson, Vice President; and Joshua Copeland, Treasurer.
Perry represented an organization that President Edington described as “one of UDC’s biggest corporate partners.” Pepco has continued to pour into the UDC community, with Perry noting that the company has invested more than $2 million into the university to support students, faculty, and the broader Firebird community.
Before the student-led discussion, Perry shared her personal and professional journey as a native Washingtonian. She spoke about the resilience instilled in her by her family and how those values influenced her education and career. Perry earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Howard University and an MBA from Johns Hopkins University before eventually becoming Regional President of Pepco.
During the student-led discussion, Adetosoye and Copeland asked Perry questions centered on experiences and lessons that could help students feel empowered to maximize their potential. Perry emphasized the importance of being flexible, adapting to change, staying connected to the community, and building relationships based on trust.
The discussion highlighted Perry’s journey, UDC’s strong partnership with Pepco, and the ambitious student leaders who helped lead a meaningful conversation about leadership, community, and reaching one’s potential.
Perry closed by reminding the audience that everyone has a gift. “Once people discover that gift and learn how to use it, they should find ways to give back and help others.”
