Jamie and Tasha Byrd, both UNA alumni, were thrilled when their twin daughters decided to attend their alma mater. Jamie graduated in 1999 with a degree in Business Management, while Tasha earned a master’s in Education. For them, UNA was not only an academic institution but also a cornerstone of their personal and professional development.
Their daughters, Ava and Chloe Byrd, are continuing the tradition. Both are freshmen majoring in Computer Science with minors in Cybersecurity. Involved in campus life through organizations like PMA, the UNA Dance Team, and the cheer team, they embrace everything the University offers. Their younger sister, Lola Claiborne, is still in elementary school, but the Byrd family’s enthusiasm suggests her future might include UNA.
What makes UNA so special to the Byrds? The entire family speaks passionately about the welcoming atmosphere, the tight-knit community, and the university’s emphasis on student engagement. Ava and Chloe highlight the ease of getting involved in clubs and activities, while their parents emphasize the campus’s beauty, safety, and the range of academic opportunities available.
For Tasha, the experience has been “surreal”—a blend of nostalgia and excitement at seeing how UNA has grown while staying true to its community roots.
“The professors and staff genuinely care about their students’ success,” she shared. “It’s a family-oriented campus,” she says.
Jamie echoes that sentiment, calling it “very exciting” to see his daughters grow into confident young adults within a supportive environment.
“Our girls have matured so much in such a short time,” Jamie said. “They’re not just learning—they’re growing into individuals who are ready to make a difference.”
Ultimately, the Byrds see UNA as more than just a university—it’s a home. Their advice to parents? “Even if you’re local, don’t discourage your kids from living on campus. It’s a game-changer for their college experience.”
From alumni to undergraduates, the Byrd family’s bond with UNA is a shining example of generational pride and Lion spirit.
