“Today, I stand before you and declare that the state of Alabama State University, this magnificent institution, is well,” said President Quinton T. Ross Jr., Ed.D., as he described the state of the university. “Alabama State University is on the right path. Not only is she on the right path, but we are leading the way. We are setting the pace for the next generation of history makers.”
Before hundreds of students, faculty, staff and administrators, Ross reflected on the university’s accomplishments and outlined future goals during the annual Fall Convocation (better known as the State of the University Address) held Thursday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m. in the Dunn-Oliver Acadome. The event served as an opportunity to update the university community on new and existing programs, activities, investments and purchases.
Ross highlighted a 4.4% increase in overall enrollment as one of the university’s recent successes, emphasizing the growth in the dual enrollment program.
“Our dual enrollment program has seen a tremendous increase, which is a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our team to create opportunities for students to begin their academic career journey early,” he said.
He also discussed the university’s financial strides, including saving $1.4 million in interest, allowing reinvestment in campus facilities, faculty and staff.
Ross also spoke about infrastructure improvements, noting that upgrades have been completed across eight historical buildings and new network equipment has been installed in most residential halls.
“These infrastructure improvements are critical in creating a campus environment that fosters learning, innovation and collaboration,” Ross said.
In terms of campus safety, Ross emphasized ongoing partnerships with law enforcement and investments in surveillance equipment, reminding students of their responsibility also.
“We are setting the pace by partnering with federal, state and local law enforcement to keep our campus safe,” Ross said. “Investing millions of dollars in surveillance equipment to assist in our campus safety efforts. We all have a responsibility for our campus safety. If you see something, say something.”
Ross also shared exciting news about new academic programs.
“We are also proud to announce the approval of several other programs, the Doctorate of Occupational Therapy and the Master’s in Science and Social Psychology,” he said. These programs mark a significant milestone for our institution.”
Closing his remarks, Ross reminded the audience that all of these advancements were made with the students in mind.
“All of these things that I have mentioned, they’re being accomplished for one reason and one reason only. You all, our scholars, this is for you.”
Student reactions to the convocation were positive, with many finding the event both inspiring and motivating.
Aaliyah Bowman, a junior majoring in biology pre-health, described the convocation as “enlightening and encouraging.”
“Hearing Dr. Ross giving encouraging words not only to the Class of 2028 but to sophomores, juniors and graduating seniors was motivating,” Bowman said. “My favorite part of the convocation would definitely have to be the entertainment portion, from our fabulous band to our amazing BFA program. Both performances gave me a wake-up call to not only focus on my grades but to appreciate what the Marion Nine has done for us and Alabama State University.”
Ebere Oha, a senior majoring in psychology, said, “The convocation was really fun. It’s my third year going, and it’s always amazing to see and hear the progress of ASU. My favorite part was the band, of course, and the performing arts department’s dance and singing. It made the convocation fun!”
A’vandia Fedd, a sophomore majoring in forensic chemistry, praised the event’s inspiring tone, particularly the student recognitions.
“The choir and band are always beautiful and amazing. The performance done by the men about powerful Black men in history was amazing,” Fedd said, though she suggested some parts of the program would be better suited for a different event.
Madison McGuire, a sophomore majoring in biology pre-health, appreciated the sense of unity.
“I had a good experience at the convocation, and my favorite part was seeing the student body come together during the ‘They Not Like Us’ performance,” she said.