“The Legacy of Gold: A Presidential Golden Affair,” lit up the night with elegance and pride at Alabama State University on Sept. 21. The President’s Gala, held in the Dunn-Oliver Acadome at 7 p.m., brought the university and community together to honor its 15th president, Quinton T. Ross Jr., Ed.D. and celebrate the university’s enduring legacy.
With alumni, donors, faculty and supporters gathered in unity, the evening soared to new heights, raising $15.4 million in support of the university’s future.
“Tonight, we are here to celebrate the legacy of the presidential gala at Alabama State University,” Ross said. “I’m so excited about this evening. There’s been so much work that’s been put into it. Tonight, we honor our support and mission of Alabama State University and also pay tribute to those who have paved the way for so many who have matriculated through Alabama State University.”
Ross emphasized that the gala’s purpose extended beyond celebration.
“The whole reason we do this President’s Gala is for the benefit of the students at Alabama State University,” he said. “Giving them the opportunity to have the educational experience of a lifetime. It’s because of the community, as well as its supporters from all over the world, that we are able to put this gala on and raise money to help them as they matriculate through Alabama State University.”
Ross also reflected on the institution’s rich history and the pivotal role past presidents have played in its growth.
“Alabama State University is a place where history is made, and there have been many presidents who have left a long legacy. I stand in the gap to continue this tradition so that Alabama State University can move 157 years forward,” he said.
Guests were awed by the transformation of the Dunn-Oliver Acadome into a sophisticated venue. Candace Saxon, attending with her husband who works for the university’s institutional advancement department, praised the event’s atmosphere.
“This room is exceptionally well put together. It’s amazing; it’s absolutely beautiful. And the reception was well put together as well. It doesn’t feel like you’re in the Acadome! You actually don’t know where you are!” Saxon said. “It’s all black and gold! It’s certainly a legacy gold event. You can tell from the decor and how people came dressed. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Alabama State University.”
For attendees like Clair Payne, the history on display was a powerful reminder of the university’s impact.
“It’s just wonderful to see the history of former presidents and the current president. That walk-through was beautiful and warming, I’m so happy to be attending the gala,” she shared. “It’s a great fundraiser. Anytime you’re raising money for scholarships, of course, it benefits the students, and I’m glad to be a part of this great event.”
Landon Hale, Student Government Association (SGA) president, expressed his excitement about the funds being raised.
“It’s a phenomenal event. Seeing all of our donors here and seeing all the funding come back to support our programming on campus to help our students excel on another level is very overwhelming,” Hale said. “We are very, very, very grateful to receive these funds so that we can pour into our campus.”
Fellow attendee Travis Smith, an alum and former SGA president, echoed similar sentiments.
“It’s a great opportunity for me to support the university, scholarships and to fellowship with my colleagues,” Smith said. “I’m excited about the scholarship total. This is the most we’ve seen since the first gala I attended.” He emphasized the importance of recognizing donors and students at the event, adding, “As it relates to the gold standard, this is the opportunity for us to congratulate our students, honor our donors and to really highlight where history is made with the living legends award.”
Smith’s lifelong connection to the university has fueled his ongoing dedication to giving back.
“I’m always indebted as an alum to support the university and to give back to Alabama State University. For the rest of my life, I’ll be trying to fulfill that debt,” he shared.