When the search for a new leader to head the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People(NAACP) began last December, a UTA student was among the distinguished group of NAACP leaders tasked with identifying a replacement for outgoing president and CEO Benjamin Jealous.

UT-Arlington senior, Michael Coleman II was selected to sit on the 13-member panel, made up of Fortune 500 executives, religious and civil rights leaders from across the country. Coleman, who is 2013-2014 president of the UTA Branch of the NAACP, not only leads the local collegiate branch but serves as assistant secretary for the Texas NAACP Youth and College Division. "I am honored," said Coleman. "It took a while for it to sink in after receiving the letter."

Jealous who is credited with repositioning and refreshing the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization announced his resignation September 8, 2013. Jealous transitioned out of his role as President and CEO on December 31.

"Mr. Jealous' leadership has inspired me during my four years as a UTA NAACP member," said Coleman. "I believe we will identify several candidates with the same commitment to involving young men and women in the NAACP's work of advancing social justice and civil rights in our country," said Coleman.

Coleman's service on the search committee will involve frequent travel to the nation's capitol for scheduled meetings.