Welcome To
THE EDNA KARR ALUMNI NETWORK
A 501(c)(3) Organization

Reconnect, Give Back, and Celebrate Cougar Pride: The Power of the Edna Karr Alumni Association
More than just staying connected to classmates, the Edna Karr Alumni Network offers a chance to rekindle the Cougar spirit AND make a lasting impact.
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Lifelong Cougar Network: Become part of a vibrant network of fellow alumni, fostering connections that can open doors professionally and personally.
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Memories and More: Connect with alumni at social events, volunteer at Karr, and build a sense of community that transcends graduation.
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Investing in the Future: Your alumni dues directly contribute to student scholarships, covers operational costs, funds alumni events, and supports the school's ongoing success.
By joining the Edna Karr Alumni Network, you're not just reconnecting with the past, you're investing in the future of Karr.

JOIN US IN MAKING AN IMPACT
Make a Difference, Big or Small: Donate to the Edna Karr Alumni Network! We are a 501(c)(3) organization. Every contribution, big or small, has the power to create a positive impact with our young Cougars.
You can contribute to the General Scholarship Fund or leave a lasting legacy by establishing a scholarship in your name!
EKAN Scholarship Portal
Welcome to the Edna Karr Alumni Network Scholarship Portal! We're excited to offer scholarships to Karr's seniors. To see our available awards, please click the link below. Detailed eligibility criteria and submission requirements are provided within the portal. We encourage all eligible students to apply and wish you the best of luck!
The Purple and Gold Store
Step into the Purple & Gold Store! Your one-stop shop for all things Karr. Here, you can easily:
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Renew your alumni membership
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Grab tickets for upcoming events
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Support future Cougars with scholarship donations
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Show your pride with exclusive alumni gear!
Email us for large donation inquiries.
Spotlight on our valued donors and sponsors!
The Edna Karr Alumni Network is immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our generous donors and sponsors. Their commitment is vital to our success, enabling us to continue our mission and achieve our goals. In this section, we proudly shine a light on the organizations and individuals who make our work possible. Interested in making a similar impact? Email us about our sponsorship or donor opportunities and how you can partner with us. karralumni@gmail.com

Purple Level - $500-999
Accepting donors!

Gold Level $1000-$4999
Ciji Thibodaux-Wheeler, Scholarship founder, Class of 2001
Jay Daniels, Scholarship founder, Class of 2001
Nikalondrea Tyler-Johnson, Scholarship founder, Class of 1997
Tiffany Smith, Scholarship founder, Class of 1998
The Arbicore Group, 2025 Gala Sponsor, Non-Alumni donor
Lloyd Wills, Scholarship founder

Platinum Level $5000 and above
Gina Pizzo, Scholarship founder, 2025 Gala Sponsor, Class of 1997
UPCOMING EVENTS:
RSVP Now for these upcoming events!


Alumni Weekend
Save the Date!!!
Alumni weekend May 29- May 31, 2026
Please reach out to your class representatives for more details.


Meet the Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
The mission of the Edna Karr alumni association is to build a robust network, bridging the gap between current students, alumni, and supporters. This dynamic community will not only provide scholarships and invaluable mentoring, but also foster career development, lasting friendships, and engaging alumni events.
Our fundraising goal for this fiscal year is $30,0000.

Board of Directors- President
Tiffany Smith, RNC, MNN
Class of 1998
Stepping into the halls of 3332 Huntlee Drive in 1992 as a 7th grader, Tiffany quickly embraced the "Second to None" spirit. This pride blossomed into action during her junior year when she served as class president. Leading successful fundraising campaigns for the school's music program and planning the schools formal events solidified her passion for making a positive impact – a trait she later carried into her professional career. Still a loyal Cougar through and through, Tiffany champions Edna Karr's legacy and enthusiastically shares its story.
Tiffany has thrived as a Registered Nurse, cultivating a career marked by leadership and advocacy as she consults and champions local and national programs aimed at a preventing maternal morbidity and mortality. As an Adjunct Faculty member, Tiffany also enjoys inspiring and educating future nurses. She is a wife and mother to two sons.
Leading the Edna Karr Alumni Network, Tiffany champions its evolution into a robust network, bridging the gap between current students, alumni, and supporters and advancing the Edna Karr Alumni Network's mission.

Board of Directors
Bridget Alexander, MBA
Class of 1996
A proud alumna of Edna Karr Magnet (Class of 1996), Bridget Alexander embodies the school's "Second-to-None" spirit. Throughout her high school years, she actively participated in various athletic teams while fostering a reputation for inclusivity and friendly connections. Bridget's leadership potential was recognized early on as she assisted Coach ROC with fundraising initiatives. This dedication culminated in her senior year when she was voted "Most Likely to Succeed."
Bridget's academic pursuits continued at Louisiana State University, culminating in a Bachelor's Degree. She furthered her leadership credentials with an MBA in Business Administration with an Emphasis on Women in Leadership from Texas Woman's University. Today, she actively contributes her expertise by serving on the LSU Black Alumni AP Tureaud Board and the Texas Chapter of Women in Public Finance.
Driven by a passion for financial literacy among youth, Bridget leverages her strong background in organizational and community finance. She dedicates herself to mentoring students through various organizations, empowering them to achieve financial independence through education and literacy.
Bridget's commitment extends beyond professional accolades. As a member of the Katy Prairieview Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, she fosters a strong sense of community both within her family and the broader society.

Board of Directors- Secretary
Lauren Benn
Class of 2021
Lauren Benn is a dedicated educator, youth advocate, and community builder. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies from Illinois Wesleyan University in May 2025. Lauren is passionate about literacy, equity in education, and creating safe, empowering spaces where young people can thrive.
A proud graduate of Edna Karr Magnet High School, Lauren has continued to build on the foundation of excellence and service she gained there. Her commitment to youth advocacy led her to work with the New Orleans Children and Youth Planning Board (CYPB), where she helped shape policy and programs to improve outcomes for local youth. She also served as a Youth Fellow with the New Deal for Youth (ND4Y), a national initiative focused on advancing transformative justice, economic equity, and well-being for young people. Through this work, Lauren co-authored youth-centered proposals, facilitated community discussions, and represented New Orleans youth on national platforms.
In addition to her advocacy, Lauren has worked as a tutor, mentor, and camp counselor, using literacy and storytelling as tools to inspire confidence and critical thinking in young learners. She believes deeply in the power of education to liberate and transform, and is committed to being an educator who uplifts, empowers, and listens.

Board of Directors
Jay Daniels, J.D.
Class of 2001
Jay Daniels is a proud graduate of Edna Karr, class of 2001. While at Karr, Jay served as Student Council President from 1999-2001. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Howard University and studied law at Tulane University. Jay is the owner and managing title attorney at Infinity Title Company, LLC where a chief goal is the promotion and facilitation of underserved communities obtaining the dream of home ownership. Prior to opening Infinity, Jay started his legal career in criminal defense, earning a reputation as champion of the rights of New Orleanians. That work culminated in Jay's appointment as a Magistrate Commissioner in Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans, where he presently serves. Jay also has the pleasure of serving as a board member of InspireNOLA Charter Schools.

Board of Directors- Young Alumni Representative
Andre'Anna Pierson
Class of 2016
Andre’Anna Pierson is a proud graduate of Edna Karr High School’s Class of 2016. During her time at Karr, she served as SGA President, Student Ambassador, and was a member of the Beta Club—always dedicated to leadership and school pride.
She is currently continuing her studies in psychology, with plans to ultimately become a psychiatrist. In the meantime, she remains committed to service and growth by mentoring high school students and helping them navigate their academic and personal journeys.
Andre’Anna is passionate about bridging the gap between past and present Cougars by creating spaces where alumni can connect, grow, and thrive. As the Young Alumni Representative, she’s excited to help strengthen bonds across generations and keep the Cougar spirit strong.

Board of Directors
Kimberly Thomas, J.D.
Class of 1998
Kimberly “Kimmie” Thomas, JD, is a distinguished strategist, innovation leader, and change manager with a 20-year career marked by significant contributions to corporations, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community development initiatives. Kimberly earned her Juris Doctorate from the Southern University Law Center. Prior to this, she graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Microbiology. Her education provided a solid groundwork for her multifaceted career, blending legal expertise with a passion for public service and organizational leadership.
Kimberly's professional journey is marked by a series of impactful roles including President and Executive Director of IGL Foundation, Gamehedz Productions, and Independent Gaming League LLC. Executive Director of Heroes of New Orleans, Legislative Counsel for the Louisiana Senate Democratic Campaign Committee, and Board of Director for the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board and Inspire NOLA School Board, are among her other accomplishments.
Kimberly's vision and commitment to community service have made her a respected figure in her field, known for her ability to unite and inspire others toward achieving common goals. She stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to community development. Her career is a reflection of her dedication to making a positive impact on society through strategic initiatives, effective management, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Board of Directors
Dr. Ashonta Wyatt
Class of 1999
Dr. Ashonta Wyatt is an education and social justice advocate who currently serves as the Chief Consultant of A. Wyatt Solutions Group, a professional services consulting firm that provides coaching and professional development to individuals and organizations to increase organizational effectiveness. A. Wyatt Solutions Group also provides for a broad range of advocacy services on behalf of marginalized communities.
Dr. Wyatt is also a parent, educator, community servant and graduate of Edna Karr Magnet High School. Dr. Wyatt has a Bachelors degree from The University of New Orleans and a Masters and Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from Xavier University of Louisiana.
In addition to consulting on issues ranging from education to police reform, Dr. Wyatt is also featured in the award winning docuseries, Algiers, America. As guns become the country's leading cause of child deaths, Algiers, America provides a rare and authentic, candid, and captivating portrait of a community fighting to stem the tide. This series will at once break your heart and inspire you with its unforgettable characters and tribute to possibility. Dr. Wyatt served as a consultant producer on the HULU series.

Advisory Board Member
Dr. Aaron Tyler
Class of 1998
A proud alum and former Senior Class President of the Class of 1998 at EKMS, Dr. Aaron G. Tyler is an industry-recognized leader in emerging technologies and digital transformation efforts for large enterprises. He has over 25 years of experience in the United States Army, serving in various technical and leadership roles, culminating in his position as the Chief Technology Officer for the White House Communications Agency (Chief Warrant Officer 5). In this role, he was responsible for delivering world-class, uninterrupted IT service to the President and Vice President of the United States and over 10,000 Executive Office of the President’s political appointees and career civil servants. He is recognized as a premier educator, holding various visiting adjunct professor positions, and he holds a Ph.D. in Information Technology Education. His dissertation focused on barriers to technology adoption within the emerging online academic space.
Inspired by his experience as a first-generation college student and first-generation military service member, Aaron has focused on the technical and leadership experiences he has witnessed to weave a pragmatic and purpose-driven approach to life, leadership, team development, IT operations, and self-development.