Norfolk State University will honor four of its alumni at the 2026 Alumni Awards Celebration scheduled for 7 p.m., Friday, May 8, at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. Each of these graduates has demonstrated exemplary leadership and community service. They personify the mission and goals of the University. The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are:
Morry D. Brown, Sr., M.D., Ph.D., earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Norfolk State University in 1991. He is a board-certified neuroradiologist and partner of Triad Radiological Associates in Winston Salem, NC. He completed advanced medical and research training at the University of Virginia, earning both his M.D. and Ph.D. through its prestigious Medical Scientist Training Program. Dr. Brown is a nationally recognized scholar whose peer-reviewed research has advanced stroke intervention and neuroimaging, earning honors from the Radiological Society of North America and the University of Virginia.
Lajuana M. Collins, M.D., earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Norfolk State University in 1983. She is a board-certified psychiatrist who has served in diverse roles spanning private practice, inpatient psychiatry, academic medicine, emergency consultation, and correctional health care, including as medical director for specialized programs serving older adults. Dr. Collins devoted more than a decade of service to the Norfolk State University Foundation Board, including serving as vice president and president, where she helped strengthen the Foundation’s infrastructure and led fundraising efforts that generated $6.4 million in scholarship support.
Timothy E. Lamb, DSL, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from Norfolk State University in 1983. This highly decorated U.S. Army combat veteran and healthcare leader has led global medical logistics initiatives, expanded healthcare delivery, and achieved significant operational efficiencies. His career reflects 35 years of proven leadership experience across both peacetime and combat environments, having successfully led federal and civilian organizations ranging in size from 50 to more than 5,000 personnel. Dr. Lamb has earned numerous honors including the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star Medal.
Alisia D. Smith-Rucker, M.A., earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Norfolk State University in 1994. Currently, she serves as the District Field Sales Manager at Cengage USA, a global education technology company supporting learners from K–12 through higher education. In 2025, she was recognized as Cengage Manager of the Year; her team received District of the Year honors, and she was inducted into the Cengage Millionaire’s Club for generating $10.6 million in new business. In January 2026, she was appointed Vice President of Business Development for the National Sales Network (NSN) District of Columbia/Baltimore Chapter.
This celebration of Alumni achievement is proudly sponsored by Chartway and will begin at 7 p.m. The cost is $75 per person. Tickets can be purchased at https://alumnirelations.nsu.edu/2026-alumni-awards. For more information, contact the NSU Office of Alumni Relations at (757) 823-8135.