University of North Texas 
Homecoming at the University of North Texas is a tradition that reflects the passion and pride of its students, a campus community driven by purpose and values. Those values are put into practice annually during the Homecoming Royalty process, where nominees present a campus impact project.
This year’s Homecoming Royalty title was awarded to Meliyah Markley, a senior majoring in nonprofit leadership studies with a minor in marketing.
Markley, who began UNT as a marketing major, found her place when she discovered the nonprofit leadership program. She discovered that both programs have the potential to create impact. "Nonprofit is all about aiding your community, finding the need and filling it,” she explains. “Marketing is all about finding the need and filling it as well.”
So when she submitted her campus impact project, Markley chose to support the UNT Food Pantry presented by Kroger. Initially, she planned to provide meal kits. But after conversations with the food pantry team, her vision evolved into creating Mean Green hygiene kits. The project reflects her belief that students should not have to choose between meeting basic needs and pursuing an education.
Markley’s leadership extends beyond the project. She was nominated by the Black Student Union (BSU), where she serves as vice president. “Jeremiah, our president, and I strive to make sure anyone who walks through our doors feels welcome and supported. We work so hard to create spaces where students feel safe, advocated for, and connected,” she said.
In mid-November, the commitment was translated into real impact. The pantry received donations from Markley and the Black Student Union weighing in at almost 50 pounds, a meaningful boost for students who utilize the pantry’s resources.
In addition to her role with BSU, she is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Through her involvement on campus, she continues to build connections and contributes to initiatives that uplift and empower her community.
As she prepares to graduate, Markley’s journey is proof that momentum begins with courage. “My advice to current students and incoming students is do not be afraid to put yourself out there” she says. “You are bigger than the obstacles.”