By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
On November 3, local TV show Inside Huntsville, hosted by Brenda Martin, shone a spotlight on one of the community’s most anticipated events — the Alabama A&M University Alumni Hall of Fame Celebration.
Founded in 1989, the AAMU Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes and celebrates graduates whose achievements exemplify the university’s enduring legacy of leadership, innovation, and service. The 2025 induction ceremony will take place on Friday, November 14, at 7 p.m. in the T.M. Elmore Gymnasium on the historic Alabama A&M campus.
Appearing on the show were Sandra Stubbs, Director of Alumni Affairs, and Zelda Goggins, event co-chair and proud alumna. The two shared their excitement for this year’s ceremony, which will honor four distinguished inductees representing medicine, government, business and industry, and community service.
“We’re recognizing alumni who have not only excelled in their careers but who continue to make a difference in their communities,” Stubbs said. “They embody the true Bulldog spirit — service, leadership, and excellence.”
Sandra Stubbs, who graduated from Alabama A&M in December 1987 and marched with the Class of 1988, met her husband Herman Stubbs while both were students at the university. Together, they raised their daughter in Huntsville — a city that remains central to both her personal life and professional calling. “This event is about preserving our legacy,” she said. “These honorees represent what it means to take an Alabama A&M education and use it to transform lives.”
Zelda Goggins, who graduated from AAMU in 1978, also met her husband on campus and has called Huntsville home ever since. “I never left,” she said. “A&M gave me everything — lifelong friendships, opportunity, and purpose. That’s why this celebration means so much.”
Goggins explained that to be considered for induction into the Hall of Fame, nominees must have earned a degree from Alabama A&M, demonstrated outstanding professional achievement, and made significant contributions to their communities. “You also must have given back — to the university, your community, and your profession,” she said. “That’s what makes this honor so meaningful. It’s not just about what you achieve; it’s about how you serve.”
The evening will include dinner prepared by AAMU’s own catering team and live entertainment featuring internationally acclaimed vocalist and alumna Myrna Clayton, who will perform during the ceremony.
During the segment, host Brenda Martin highlighted Alabama A&M’s deep connection to the growing city of Huntsville. She noted that about 17 people move to Huntsville every day and that the university has more than 7,000 students, with roughly 25% born and raised locally. Martin also emphasized the importance of alumni giving, saying, “Imagine if every AAMU graduate gave just ten dollars a month. The collective impact would be incredible for scholarships, programs, and our students’ future.”
Tickets for the 2025 Alumni Hall of Fame Celebration are available online at www.aamu.edu/alumnihalloffame.
As Alabama A&M celebrates its 150th anniversary, the Hall of Fame continues to honor those whose success uplifts others — reminding all that greatness begins on “The Hill” and extends far beyond it.