Attorney Rochelle A. Conley’s connection to Alabama A&M University spans generations. A proud alumna, legal counsel, educator, and advocate, Conley also serves as a Torchbearer for the University’s 150th Anniversary Campaign - a role that highlights her unwavering commitment to the growth and future of her alma mater.

Conley, who has served as General Counsel since October 2022, says her AAMU story began much earlier.

“I am a second-generation AAMU alum,” she said. “Both of my parents attended Alabama A&M. My mother earned her master’s degree here and several of my aunts, uncles, and cousins are also alumni. This University is embedded in my family’s story.”

As a Torchbearer, Conley joins alumni and supporters working to raise a record-setting $15 million through individual gifts by December 2025. Through a series of receptions hosted across the country, Torchbearers aim to raise at least $25,000 per event. The inaugural event, hosted by retired Vice President for Research and Development Dr. Dorothy W. Huston, raised over $60,000 to set a strong precedent for gatherings in cities like New York, Phoenix, and Birmingham.

Conley’s reception, slated for August, is already making waves. Her team has raised $102,000 to-date, a testament to her leadership and vision.

“I’ve been giving to AAMU for more than a decade,” she said. “But this campaign feels different; it’s transformational. I’m honored to help mark this historic milestone with action that directly supports students and secures our legacy.”

A native of Huntsville, Alabama, Conley earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with an emphasis in History/Political Science from Alabama A&M in 2000 and completed her Juris Doctor at the University of Alabama School of Law in 2006. Now a 19-year veteran of the legal profession and a member of the Alabama State Bar, she also shares her expertise with students as an adjunct professor in Construction Law and Contracts in the College of Engineering, Technology, and Physical Sciences. Her current role as the University’s top legal officer allows her to protect and serve the institution she holds dear.

“AAMU has been my favorite client,” said Conley. “I love advocating for the University and working each day to help ensure it thrives as an institution of higher learning.”

Conley’s service extends beyond the courtroom and classroom. She is a founding member of the Delta Delta – Delta Sigma Theta Endowed Scholarship, the largest endowed fund by any affinity group in the University’s history. For her, giving is not just a duty – it’s personal.

“Every fall, I’m inspired by the arrival of new Normalites on The Hill,” she said. “Many are first-generation college students, and I want to make sure they not only start here – but finish. If we can help them persist beyond their sophomore year, we’ve set them on a path to graduate. That’s why I give.”

As the University undergoes major transformation – including new academic programs, the renovation and construction of buildings and increased student enrollment – Conley believes it's vital to modernize while honoring tradition.

“These improvements are long overdue,” she said. “We must maintain the historic character of our campus while making it accessible, modern, and inviting. Like many alumni, I am sentimental about several of the buildings on campus. But, I am also mindful that to attract and retain the best and brightest students, we must enhance the campus experience. Sentiment is important, but so is progress – and our students deserve both.”

Reflecting on her journey, Conley expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to her alma mater in this leadership role.

“I’m deeply grateful to President Wims for entrusting me to serve this dynamic institution. It’s an honor to contribute to a place that shaped me – and to help shape its next 150 years.”

Learn more on the Torchbearer Initiative.