DALLAS – Conference USA announced 20 participants for the second year of its Stars of Tomorrow program, an exclusive initiative that blends collegiate athletics and career development to provide top students from member institutions with meaningful access to industry leaders and career opportunities in Huntsville, Ala.

Jax State cross country runners Rudi Barnette and Drew Cook were among those selected. Barnette was an Academic All-Conference USA selection and is majoring in Science Education. Cook is a sophomore Finance major.

Building on the success of its inaugural year, the Stars of Tomorrow program will once again cover travel and accommodation expenses for participating students from select member institutions. During the visit, students will take part in a full day of professional development, including direct engagement with employers across the Huntsville corporate community and exploration of career opportunities aligned with their academic and professional interests.

The program will take place in conjunction with the 2026 Air National Guard CUSA Basketball Championships at Propst Arena in Huntsville, offering students a unique opportunity to combine real-world career exposure with the excitement of a championship environment. Participants will gain firsthand insight into Huntsville's growing job market while experiencing the energy and visibility of one of Conference USA's premier events.