Who We Are

True Blue 1881 was established out of the desire for two Spelman alumnae to help students attending college in the Atlanta University Center. They both had initiatives near and dear to them and in 2019, decided to join forces and expand their philanthropic efforts.

We believe all students can embrace who they are, can define their future, and can change the world."

Who We Are

Our Mission

True Blue 1881 is committed to continuing to provide assistance and resources to the students of the Atlanta University Center and beyond. It is our desire to create a world where students are free of food, shelter and economic insecurities. True Blue 1881 currently serves students from Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College and aims to expand their assistance to HBCU students everywhere.

Our Vision

True Blue 1881 was created by Atlanta University Center Alumnae who currently provide assistance to HBCU students in need. True Blue 1881 continues to grow and we are excited about what the future holds.

The Team

Tiombe Nucklos O'Rourke

CEO & Founder

Born Tiombé Nigina Nucklos, it has always been her desire to affect positive change while remaining behind the scenes. Tiombé is a proud graduate of Spelman College, Class of 1999. She inherited her giving and generous spirit from her father, who taught her to give without expectation of anything in return. According to her “Italian Mom”, “Do good and forget about it! Do bad and think about it!” Tiombé lives by these simple principles.

Joy Smith

COO & Treasurer

Joy Smith is a native of Columbus, Ohio who now calls Atlanta, Georgia home. As the Chief Operating Officer of True Blue 1881, LLC, she ensures True Blue 1881's vision is executed with laser precision, social responsibility, and purpose led fun. She earned a Master of Science in Data Analytics from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Spelman College.