A Legacy of Leadership, a Student Who Defines It

At University of Advancing Technology (UAT), leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about showing up — for your classmates, your community, and your future self.

This summer, that spirit was embodied by Avery Willis, a Bachelor of Science in Data Science major who somehow juggled completing three associate degrees in Advancing Computer Science, Network Engineering, an internship, and student ambassador duties — all while being known around campus as “everyone’s bestie.”

“Avery has a unique ability to brighten any room with just a smile.” — Student Services Team

It’s no wonder Avery was honored with the Brooke Cayce Legacy Leadership Award, UAT’s highest recognition for students who lead with positivity, resilience, and innovation.

📚 Scholar. Ambassador. Innovator.

Avery’s path at UAT has been nothing short of ambitious:

• Degree track: Bachelor’s in Data Science + three associate’s degrees in Advancing Computer Science, Network Engineering, and Network Security.
  
  

• Student Ambassador: The go-to face of UAT for new and prospective students.
  
  

• Internship Impact: As UAT’s Data Marketing Scientist Intern, Avery earned a HubSpot Reporting Certification and tackled multi-platform data integration projects that shaped how UAT uses insights to drive strategy.
  
  

• Skillset: Sharp analytical skills + genuine curiosity + the attitude of “I can figure this out.”

That mix of hustle and heart made Avery a stand-out leader in every corner of campus.

💡 More Than Data: The Human Side of Leadership

Numbers and dashboards may have been Avery’s tools, but people are his legacy. Whether it was breaking down complex insights for the marketing team or just brightening a friend’s day between classes, Avery made leadership personal.

“Positive, friendly, fun, eager to help — Avery’s presence will be missed around here, but we know he’ll go on to achieve greatness.” — Student Services Team

In other words: Avery doesn’t just crunch data. He connects people.

🌠 Carrying Forward Brooke Cayce’s Legacy

The Brooke Cayce Award honors the spirit of a student who was driven, friendly, involved, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Avery’s story reflects that legacy perfectly — proving that leadership is as much about kindness as it is about accomplishment.

At UAT, we believe leaders aren’t just born. They’re built through community, opportunity, and innovation. Avery’s journey shows what that looks like in action.

FAQs

Q: What is the Brooke Cayce Legacy Leadership Award?
It’s UAT’s highest recognition of student leadership, honoring the legacy of Brooke Cayce — a student remembered for her positivity, involvement, and generosity of spirit.

Q: Why did Avery Willis win the Summer 2025 award?
Avery was recognized for his academic excellence, work as a Student Ambassador, impactful internship contributions, and his ability to uplift everyone around him.

Q: What did Avery study at UAT?
Avery pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science along with three associate’s degrees, while also completing certifications and internships.

Q: How does UAT prepare student leaders like Avery?
Through Student Innovation Projects (SIP), leadership opportunities, internships, and a tech-driven community where students practice real-world impact.

🚀 Ready to Build Your Own Leadership Story?

Want to launch your career, earn certifications, and lead like Avery?

👉 Apply to UAT Today

At UAT, you don’t just study tech — you lead with it.