Fourteen universities and colleges were represented for a day of advocacy in front of the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Alabama Feb. 20.
Known as Higher Education Day, the annual event emphasizes the critical role Alabama’s colleges and universities play in shaping the future of the state.
The event also highlights the importance of supporting public policies that enhance the impact of higher education institutions while offering a platform for direct communication between students, faculty and state representatives.
“Alabama’s universities shape the state’s economy and must be supported,” Gordon Stone, the executive director of the Higher Education Partnership, said.
The event began with a parade that started at 10:30 a.m. and included marching bands, mascots and students. Student Government Association (SGA) leaders signed a statewide pledge of support for higher education.
The event also provided an opportunity for students to share their stories, demonstrating the power of education in achieving personal and professional success.
“I loved the cause, and I feel like the mission is representing everybody,” A’Vandia Fedd, a sophomore forensic chemistry major from Alabama State University, said.
Fedd said she loved that they invited the colleges and universities to represent during Higher Education Day.
“I like the idea of bringing all the Alabama universities together and having a connection between them because there is not a lot of connection between historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and predominantly white institutions (PWIs). So, to have this day for them to connect is important,” Fedd said.
Her takeaway is that “networking is the biggest thing in this world.
“Everything in your life can be taken away from you except your knowledge,” she said. “People should strive to have knowledge, should know things, because if you know something, no one can tell you that you don’t know that that’s it,” Fedd emphasized.
Tarika Mack, a graduate of Gadsden State Community College and Jacksonville State University, shared her thoughts on why higher education is essential for young people.
“Seeking higher education helps individuals achieve their goals and dreams,” Mack said. “It allows people to stay informed and make better decisions in life.”
Another participant, Ayanna Scott, a junior nursing major from Jacksonville State University, emphasized the importance of persistence.
“If you’re struggling to access resources, don’t give up. Keep asking for help. Someone is always willing to assist you,” Scott said.
During lunch, students heard from legislative leaders.
“As Alabama prepares to build a landscape that is competitive in the knowledge-based economy of the future, it is crucial to empower universities to train and equip graduates with the skills to compete for the best jobs and to lead our state forward in the future,” Stone said.
Higher Education Day serves as a reminder of the pivotal role universities play in Alabama’s development, with research, economic contributions, and the cultivation of leadership at the forefront of discussions. According to event organizers, every $1,000 increase in higher education funding generates $1.8 million in total per capita income, underscoring the importance of financial support for the state’s universities.
As Alabama’s higher education institutions continue to advocate for their future, students like Olivia Williams, a freshman news media major at the University of Alabama, expressed their aspirations to make a difference.
“Higher education is crucial, especially for women of color,” Williams said. “It allows us to stay informed and educated, enabling us to impact the world positively.”
With Alabama ranked 46th in per capital income, increasing investments in higher education remains critical for the state’s growth and the success of its residents. By providing opportunities for higher learning, Alabama can ensure that more students achieve the lifetime benefits associated with a college degree.