Alabama State University’s College of Education hosted its annual College of Education Assembly on Aug. 26 in the Ralph David Abernathy Hall Vivian DeShields Auditorium, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and alumni for a morning of motivation, resources and professional guidance.

The assembly emphasized diversity, connection, and purpose. Organizers urged students to see themselves not only as future teachers, but also as leaders and change makers who will shape the next generation.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Carl Pettis, Ph.D., who is also serving as interim dean of the College of Education, urged students to seize the moment.

“Do not take for granted the faculty and staff that came across the stage,” Pettis said. “They will be pivotal members in your role ellipse … Get to know them early, not late. You are not a number here. You are an individual that we intend to shape, mold, and produce as the best and the brightest.”

Faculty and advisors introduced themselves, outlining resources available to help students succeed. They urged students to stay connected with their assigned advisors, use the new QR codes that link directly to checklists for each major, and keep up with important degree planning updates. Students were also reminded to monitor Navigation360 notifications and use their campus email for all official communication.

Several organizations were also spotlighted, including Kappa Delta Pi, the Student Advisory Council, and the Ladies of Distinction, which provide opportunities for leadership, service, and community. Student Advisory Council members were recognized for their role in helping peers navigate the academic year.

Students were further cautioned to plan for professional licensure. The faculty emphasized the importance of preparing early for the Praxis exams and the Foundations of Reading test, key requirements for becoming licensed teachers in Alabama.  Anthony Broughton Ed.D., associate dean, explained that students’ professional dispositions will be evaluated at three key points: admission into the program, before internship, and at the end of internship.

Broughton reinforced the importance of professionalism and continuous improvement, tying them directly to national accreditation standards through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). He compared the process to athletics compliance under the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

“Just as universities must meet requirements to compete in sports,” Broughton said, “teacher preparation programs must meet accreditation standards to show that our graduates are ready to lead classrooms.”

He also pointed students toward practical support. A new Guidebook outlines field and clinical placement requirements, and students were reminded of the Oct.31 deadline for internship applications. In addition, the College of Education’s partnership tutoring program with Valiant Cross Academy was highlighted as a way for undergraduates to gain experience while serving children in the community.

“Our faculty do not just tell you what to do, we show you what effective teaching looks like,” Broughton said during a live demonstration. He emphasized that professionalism is shaped by everyday habits. “Your habits, your words, your actions, they all shape the educator you are becoming.”

Keynote speaker Travis Smith, Ph.D., an assistant professor of educational leadership policy and law and a 2012 graduate of the university, delivered an energetic address centered on what he called the Mamba Mentality. Drawing inspiration from the late Kobe Bryant, Smith challenged students to live fearlessly, know their worth, and embrace their purpose.

“I am not afraid to stand and speak because I am prepared,” Smith said. “Know your worth, but to know it, you must do the work to be worthy. Your purpose is not about you; it is about everybody else you are connected to.”

Smith pressed students to reflect on how their words and actions in the classroom will shape young lives.

“Are you empowering the next generation of doctors, educators, and lawyers, or are you perpetuating the school-to-prison pipeline?” he asked. “Understand that your why is bigger than you.”

He also urged students to reject laziness, study their craft, and take care of themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually.

“Hurt people hurt people,” he said. “If you do not take care of yourself, you will not be able to take care of your students. Teaching is not just about instruction; you will also be someone’s mentor, role model, and protector.”

Students said they left the assembly with both inspiration and practical guidance.

“It was pretty good,” said Jordan Belser, a sophomore music education major. “I enjoyed the speaker and the different scenarios. I feel more motivated to teach now.”

Senior elementary education major Tonia Bibb called the event “very informative.” She added, “I took a lot of notes today. Dr. Smith was really good, Dr. Pettis was good, and I really enjoyed the assembly.”

Andre Cooper, a junior early childhood education major, said the messages were empowering.

“This event was very educational for me, especially the last part where they encouraged us to be the best we can be,” Cooper said. “It reminded me to trust myself before stepping into the classroom to trust my students.”

Junior education major Taylor Carey described the assembly as one of the strongest he has attended.

“I think we need more of these, especially within the College of Education, just to make sure everyone is on one page,” Carey said. “Teaching is difficult, but things like this motivate and encourage us to see it through.”

As the College of Education Assembly came to a close, students were expected to prepare early, lean on faculty support, and embrace their role as future educators. Broughton reminded them that the standard of excellence is high, while Smith left the audience with a challenge to think beyond themselves.

“The Mamba Mentality is not just a school of thought, it is a way of life,” Smith said. “Either you are going to do it, or you are not. Leave a legacy that will last long after you.”