Alabama A&M University has enjoyed a productive relationship with the Walt Disney Company that exceeds 25 years. Throughout that period, AAMU students have interned and later been employed at the company’s various units.
Retired Career Development Services (CDS) Director Brenda D. Davis, who headed the AAMU office from 1992-2008, recalls a period when Disney was among AAMU’s top recruiters. Nearly 20 years ago, Davis was selected by Disney to serve a four-year stint on its College Advisory Board. She was instrumental in the development of student recruitment criteria, programs and even housing policies for the company.
Although Disney’s national college program began as early as 1981, it was known then as The Magic Kingdom College Program (MKCP). As Disney continued to expand its operations, the official name of the program also changed several times. In 2004, for example, the college component was renamed the Disney Theme Parks and Resorts College Program. Today, however, the program is promoted as the Disney College Program, and its student participant reach about 8,000 annually from AAMU and some 300 other colleges and universities.
The generational relationship AAMU has with Disney continues under Yvette Clayton, current CDS director at AAMU.
“It’s such a global company, with so many different areas, that they were very receptive to lots of students applying, and we’re always committed to trying to make sure every major gets some opportunity.”
Clayton says Disney still visits campuses, but because its brand is so strong, word of mouth travels quickly.
“Our students that have worked there encourage other students to apply, but it’s still a very competitive process,” she said. “We just hope it continues. We want to see more students have more opportunities with Disney. It is very customer service-oriented. We’re very proud that not only are our students getting there, but they are doing well.”
Recently, in recognition of being a key partner in Disney’s mostly virtual recruitment and internship efforts, AAMU was been selected as a Distinguished Disney College Program Institution.
“There is a tremendous sense of pride that comes along with seeing each of AAMU College Program participants embrace and grow with this experience,” said Kristi Breen, vice president, Disney International and Campus Programs and DCL Recruitment