SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The City of Huntsville paused during its Thursday, August 28, City Council meeting to celebrate a momentous milestone in higher education: the 150th anniversary of Alabama A&M University. Mayor Tommy Battle, joined by council members, university leaders, alumni, and supporters, presented both a proclamation and a resolution recognizing the institution’s historic contributions.
“This evening we have a proclamation and resolution, which is very unusual,” Mayor Battle said as he welcomed Alabama A&M President Dr. Daniel Wims, Councilwoman Michelle Watkins, and members of the “Bulldog Nation” to the council chambers. “We are celebrating 150 years of Alabama A&M University, which has provided education, supported our community, and helped people achieve a better life. Education is the key to opportunity. Opportunity is the key to doing well in life, to having jobs and raising families.”
Honoring a Historic Legacy
Reading from the proclamation, Mayor Battle highlighted Alabama A&M’s origins and continued growth:
• Founded in 1875 by the formerly enslaved educator Dr. William Hooper Council.
• Recognized as Alabama’s largest historically Black college and university (HBCU).
• A leading producer of minority graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
• A student-centered university known for record enrollment, expanding infrastructure, and national recognition.
“Alabama A&M’s bold leadership and enduring legacy continue to inspire progress and serve as a model of excellence in higher education,” the proclamation read.
Voices of Pride from Alumni
Councilwoman Michelle Watkins, an AAMU alumna, offered a heartfelt reflection. “Who would have thought, at the tender age of 27, a former slave would have started a university that is now internationally known?” she said. “Alabama A&M is where I learned that ‘Service is Sovereignty.’ That’s always been embedded in us, and that’s why I stand here today.”
Watkins added a personal note, recognizing the university’s record enrollment and sharing that her grandson recently joined as a new student. “He is very excited to be on campus. Alabama A&M has one of the best engineering programs in the state, the very best teacher education program, and a nationally recognized social work program. Great things are happening at Alabama A&M, and we are excited about the 150th anniversary and the upcoming football season.”
Leadership Speaks
University President Dr. Daniel Wims expressed deep gratitude. “It is a seminal moment for our institution,” he said. “I’m humbled that Mayor Tommy Battle, Councilwoman Watkins, and the City Council have honored us in this way. This is a team effort — from our cabinet members to our anniversary leadership team, to those who support us at the federal, state, and local levels.”
Dr. Wims emphasized Alabama A&M’s economic and cultural importance. “We are having a significant economic impact in Huntsville and Madison County, and we will continue to grow with your support. Rev. Dr. William Hooper Council would be proud today that 150 years later we are still recognizing this institution and calling his name.”
Community Spirit
Councilman Bill Kling, a 1987 graduate of AAMU, proudly joined in the celebration, exclaiming, “Go Bulldogs!” as the chamber erupted in applause.
Mayor Battle closed the presentation by urging the community to share in Alabama A&M’s historic achievement. “We commend Alabama A&M for 150 years of visionary leadership and invaluable contributions,” he said. “We call upon all citizens to join in celebrating this esteemed institution for its enduring legacy.”