Dear editor,

I would like to thank the individuals who attended and supported Alabama State University Selma-Dallas County Alumni Chapter’s 13th annual Black and Gold Banquet that was held at the Selma Convention Center on Thursday evening, April 9.

The program featured Alabama State University’s head football coach Brian Jenkins as the guest speaker. He delivered an inspiring message.

Alabama State University (ASU) is a world-class institution of higher learning. ASU has been a major component of the formula of a successful life for thousands of its graduates. Alabama State’s graduates have made major contributions to the development of the state and nation. ASU played a leading role in preparing Alabamians for the challenges of the 21st century.

Alabama State University’s alumna Mamie Williams Solomon, of Orrville, class of 1977, addressed the banquet’s audience by delivering the occasion. Alumna Solomon stated, “Alabama State University has more than 5,000 students from more than 42 states and over 20 countries. It has eight degree-granting colleges or schools. ASU offers 47 degree programs including 31 bachelors’, 11 masters’, two education specialists and three doctoral programs; Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Policy and Law, Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Doctorate in Microbiology.”

The university has a proud tradition.

Alabama State has the largest student enrollment of any Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the state of Alabama, with the finest athletic facilities of any HBCU in the nation.

The proceeds from the banquet will fund scholarships to Alabama State University for high school seniors who reside in the Selma-Dallas County area.

Give me, “That Ole Bama State Spirit,” and it is a great time to be a “Hornet.”

Gerald Shirley

Selma