By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
Emmett P. Coker has been elected President of the United Methodist University Alumni Association (UMUAA) after securing a decisive 193–51 victory at the Association’s 10th General Assembly.
Coker, who previously served as Secretary General of the Association, won the presidency in a contested race that marked a significant transition in the leadership of the alumni body.
His victory signals strong support from members for continuity, unity, and sustained institutional development.
ICoker described the outcome of the elections as both humbling and historic.
“I am deeply humbled, profoundly grateful, and sincerely thankful for this overwhelming mandate and the confidence you have reposed in me,” he said.
He emphasized that the victory was not personal but collective.
“This victory belongs to every alumnus and alumna who believed in our shared vision. It belongs to my campaign team and supporters across all classes. I say thank you,” Coker noted.
The President-elect indicated that the results reflect a broader desire among alumni for stability and progress within the Association.
“Yesterday’s election proves something powerful , tthe UMUAA desires continuity. It affirms that our alumni want us to sustain and build upon the gains we have made,” he added.
Acknowledging the leadership of outgoing President Dioh Cox Podee, Coker referenced ongoing development initiatives, including plans for the university’s future home and the construction of a 16-classroom project.
“From the paper dream of UMU’s future home to the building of the 16-classroom project, the mandate is clear: continue the work, complete the mission, and move forward without retreat,” he declared.
Extending an olive branch to his opponent and supporters, Coker called for unity within the Association.
“To Bro. David Steward and to those who did not support my candidacy, let us come and work together, not as factions or camps, but as one UMUAA family devoted to the best interests of our alma mater,” he urged.
Unlike Coker’s contested race, all other officials were elected on white ballot, including James N. N. Fallah, Vice President-Elect for Administration; Meekie Reeves, Vice President-Elect for Operations; Obediah Zonoe, Secretary General-Elect; Felecia J. W. Dorbor, Assistant Secretary General; and Emmanuel F. Vesselee, Financial Secretary.
Outgoing President Dioh Cox Podee expressed gratitude to members for their participation in the General Assembly and the peaceful conduct of the process.
“It was a privilege given to me to serve, and I am grateful that a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful process was conducted,” Podee said.
Meanwhile, Anthony Wah, Chairman of the Elections Commission, commended members of the Association for their maturity and discipline throughout the electoral process, describing it as smooth and credible.
With the elections concluded, attention now shifts to the implementation of the new leadership’s agenda, as alumni look forward to strengthening the Association’s role in supporting the growth and transformation of United Methodist University in the years ahead.
