Alabama A&M University will commemorate 150 years of legacy, leadership, and excellence during the 2025 Founder’s Week, taking place April 26 to May 4. This milestone celebration will honor the University’s visionary founder, Dr. William Hooper Councill, while showcasing AAMU's rich heritage and bold future.

A highlight of the celebration will be the 150th Founder’s Day Convocation on Friday, May 2, at 10:30 a.m. in Bradford Auditorium, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Mark S. Berry. A two-time alumnus of Alabama A&M University, Berry has made remarkable contributions in research, sustainability, and engineering. As the Senior Vice President of Research, Environment, and Sustainability for Southern Company, he is a leading advocate for clean energy technologies and environmental stewardship. His journey from AAMU to corporate leadership exemplifies the University’s enduring legacy of excellence.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Berry remains deeply connected to his alma mater. He has established scholarships for minority engineering students and has held leadership roles within the AAMU Alumni Association. His address is anticipated to deliver an inspiring message of resilience, innovation, and giving back to the community.

A Week of Celebration and Tradition

Founder’s Week kicks off on Friday, April 25, with the 25th Annual Black Tie Scholarship Gala at the Alabama A&M University Event Center. As the University’s premier fundraising event, the Gala supports talented students with financial need. In honor of the 150th Anniversary, the celebration has been expanded into a weekend of activities, including a Gospel Celebration featuring The Clark Sisters on Sunday, April 27, at 4 p.m. in the Event Center. Purchase tickets here.

Signature Events Include:

· Saturday, April 26 – 3K Run (Event Center)
· Sunday, April 27 – 150th Gospel Concert featuring The Clark Sisters (4:00 p.m., Event Center)
· Monday, April 28 – Oratorical Contest & Bulldog Beat Performance (5:30 p.m., Bradford Auditorium)
· Tuesday, April 29 – AAMU Band Concert (7:00 p.m., The Fellowship of Faith Church)
· Wednesday, April 30 – Every Sunny Wednesday: Founder’s Week Edition (Noon, The Quad)
· Thursday, May 1 – Founder’s Day Panel (Time TBD, Welcome Center)
· Friday, May 2 – Founder’s Day Convocation & Wreath Laying Ceremony (10:30 a.m., Bradford Auditorium)

Be Part of History

Alumni and friends are encouraged to support Alabama A&M University’s 150th Anniversary by contributing to the campaign to raise funds for campus improvements, scholarships, and more. A gift will help ensure the University’s enduring legacy of excellence, education, and empowerment for generations to come.