Story and photos by SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS


ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT): Dr. Daniel K. Wims, President of Alabama A&M University and Daryka Reeves as Executive Director of University Events



Alabama A&M University hosted its Press Day on Wednesday, August 17, 2024, at noon. The event welcomed members of the Huntsville press community, including representatives from television, print, radio, and online media. It was held at the university’s event center, where AAMU expressed its gratitude for the media’s ongoing coverage and support by hosting a luncheon that provided an opportunity for fellowship.The event started with remarks from Jamal Ali, Vice President for Marketing, Communication & Advancement. Ali highlighted recent developments at AAMU, including the university’s acquisition of the largest billboard sign in Birmingham, Alabama. This iconic 179-by-25-foot sign, previously owned by Attorney Alex Shunarah, has been a landmark of Birmingham’s skyline for over 50 years, perched atop a 17-story building on Morris Avenue. Ali also celebrated the AAMU Marching Band’s recent milestone, having proudly participated in last year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.
Following Ali’s address, Dr. Daniel Wims, President of Alabama A&M University, warmly welcomed the media. He underscored the university’s unwavering commitment to the community, stating that Alabama A&M is ‘the cornerstone of this community.’ Dr. Wims articulated the university’s ambition to transcend its local and national presence, aspiring to become a recognized international brand. He emphasized the importance of the relationship with the press, noting that media partnerships are crucial in shaping and enhancing the image and brand of Alabama A&M, the largest HBCU in the nation.
Dr. Wims also expressed optimism about future collaborations with the city council and county commission to attract more city attractions, commercial food brands, hotels, and entertainment centers to North Huntsville. He proudly shared that Alabama A&M is among the top 20 employers in the state of Alabama, contributing $250 million to the state’s GDP. Dr. Wims highlighted the university’s growing student enrollment and retention, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to educating both in-state and out-of-state students, with a goal to encourage graduates to remain in Alabama.
The event concluded with a presentation by Daryka Reeves, Executive Director of University Events. Reeves stressed the importance of safeguarding the university’s reputation, noting that Alabama A&M has seen significant increases in enrollment, funding, and visibility. She reiterated that the university’s primary mission is to always ‘protect the hill,’ ensuring that the university’s core values and integrity are always upheld.