ASU president: University on verge of something big

ALBANY — As Albany State University President Marion Fedrick reflects on the sold-out (“Two weeks in advance!”) Blue & Gold Scholarship Gala scheduled Saturday at the downtown Hilton Garden Inn, an event that had originally been scheduled during the university’s homecoming week, she can’t stop herself from reverting to cheerleader mode.

But, the Albany State president notes, that’s something she can’t quite help.

“We are beyond the merger,” Fedrick said, measuring her tone so as not to wake of the “six or seven kids here with my daughter.” “Sure, there are some ongoing things with that process and there are some things we’re going to have to do to strengthen the university, but there is a distinct feeling that students, faculty, the alumni, our supporters, they’re looking forward. There’s a growing feeling that Albany State is truly ‘our university.’

“I can’t really explain it or put my finger on it, but there’s this very strong feeling that we’re on the verge of something big at Albany State University. There is a boatload of things we’re doing well, and I think a lot of people are starting to wake up to the potential.”

Fedrick said having the Gala sell out of both sponsorships and individual tickets offers evidence of the growing support for the university in the community. But, she said, it also affords staff planning the event time to focus on “fine-tuning” the black-tie fundraiser that kicks off with a reception at 6:30 p.m.

“What’s been really gratifying is having so many people stop me to say, ‘I’m going to the Gala,’” Fedrick said. “This is just a really special way to close out a special week, which culminates with our Founder’s Day Convocation and ceremony Friday. And this is not going to be a typical convocation. It’s an event at which we’re encouraging everyone — students, faculty, alumni, businesses, supporters — to get involved.

“It’s an opportunity for everyone to take ownership of our institution.”

Fedrick noted a number of events planned at ASU that will showcase the university, including:

— STEM-related summer events;

— The official naming of ASU’s new Fine Arts Building, where, the Albany State president said, “A spirit centered around the arts has just gone viral.”;

— Expansion of the university’s health professional offerings that already graduates “the most nurses of any program in the state of Georgia.”

And there’s a large freshman class on campus, presenting, Fedrick said, a unique challenge for university faculty.

“About 80 percent of my focus right now is on retaining those freshmen, on how to keep them in the classroom and grow them,” the Albany State president said. “There are co-ops around the world that offer opportunities to expand our students’ horizons, and we want to make sure as many of them as possible take advantage of those opportunities.

“We have a lot going on at Albany State. For the people who haven’t been on campus for a long time or for citizens who may have never been, we want to invite you to come and see us. When you come onto the campus, there is the feel of a thriving university.”