Florida A&M University (FAMU) 2020 graduate Sterling Bright is one of two inaugural Henry Aaron Fellows.
In February, the Atlanta Braves announced the creation of their new, year-long executive leadership program, in honor of Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, former home run king and Braves executive Henry “Hank” Aaron, who died on January 22, 2021.
“To be an inaugural member of this fellowship gives me great pride. I have been a Braves fan for as long as I can remember, so to be in this position is a dream come true,” said Bright, a native of Riverdale, Georgia.
The fellowship is part of the team’s continued efforts to widen the talent pool of future diverse industry leaders and build on the legacy of trailblazers like Hank Aaron. After the initial announcement the fellowship was expanded to include a second position thanks to Truist.
“Being able to add to Hank’s legacy is a blessing in itself,” said Bright, who interned for MLB.com reporting on the current baseball season. “For all he has done for the sport of baseball and the African-American community, I have no choice but to put my best foot forward and succeed in this position.”
The fellowships will provide the opportunity to work in a business operations role in the Atlanta Braves’ front office and Bright will work directly with Braves President and Chief Executive Officer Derek Schiller, to gain experience in all aspects of leading and operating the various lines of business within the organization.
In addition to working directly with Schiller, Bright will learn the day-to-day operations of various departments within the organization. As an example, they will work closely with the Atlanta Braves Foundation in the month of July which culminates with the annual Hank Aaron Weekend.
Bright, who earned a bachelor’s in journalism, was sports editor of the FAMUan student newspaper. Bright joins Zoe Watkins, a 2021 Spelman College graduate, as the first Henry Aaron Fellow. They began their fellowship on July 6.
“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity, because it allows me to work with some of the best minds in sports and learn directly from Braves President and CEO Derek Schiller,” said the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication graduate.
