Alabama A&M University proudly celebrates the induction of distinguished alumnus, The Honorable W. Troy Massey, into the Alabama Lawyers Association Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the legal profession and his lifelong commitment to justice. The ceremony will take place Thursday, March 6, at the RSA Activity Center in Montgomery, Alabama.

For over four decades, Massey has been a champion for civil rights and a trailblazer in Alabama’s legal landscape. His work has paved the way for greater representation in the legal system, including landmark cases that led to historic hires in previously segregated court systems.

A 1966 graduate of Tuscaloosa’s historic Druid High School, Massey embarked on his journey at Alabama A&M University with the support of financial aid, scholarships, and part-time jobs. While excelling academically, he was also a student leader, serving as junior class president, a member of the Student Government Association, and president of the Gamma Phi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. His academic excellence led him to prestigious summer study programs at Columbia University and Yale University.

After graduating with honors in 1970, Massey’s legal aspirations took him to Cornell University Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1975. His path was interrupted by military service when he was drafted into the United States Army, serving in Vietnam and earning multiple honors, including the Bronze Star Medal.

Massey’s legal career was defined by his unwavering commitment to justice. He litigated significant civil rights and employment cases, including a lawsuit that led to the first seven Black full-time hires in the Montgomery County Probate Court. His judicial career included a decade as a Montgomery Municipal Court Judge and six years as a Montgomery County District Court Judge, winning re-election with an overwhelming 73% of the vote.

His devotion to Alabama A&M remains profound. Massey served two terms as a Trustee, including two years as Chairman, and he and his wife, Sue Silmon Massey, are members of the Normal Legacy Society, having contributed over $100,000 to the University. In recognition of their generosity, a street on campus bears their names: W. Troy & Sue Massey Drive.

In 2012, Massey received national recognition when he was inducted into the National Black Alumni Hall of Fame in the Government/Law category, the first of two Alabama A&M graduates to hold this distinction. Massey was elected Montgomery County District Judge, Place 3, and served until his retirement in 2018.

Massey’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and resilience. As a devoted trustee, legal advocate, and mentor, he continues to inspire future generations. He and his wife remain active in their Montgomery community, where he serves as a trustee and long-standing member of Hutchinson Missionary Baptist Church.

To purchase tickets or learn more about the Alabama Lawyers Association Hall of Fame induction, visit https://ala-lawyers.org.