MARION FEDRICK: Success of our students, community unites us all

It has been 116 years since the founding of Albany State University, and we are still making history. On Saturday, the university will celebrate its inaugural Blue & Gold Scholarship Gala, one of the many events planned this week to celebrate the legacy of our founder, Dr. Joseph Winthrop Holley.

In 1903, Dr. Holley left Rhode Island and journeyed to Albany to create an institution that would nurture the minds of students for years to come. I am encouraged through the legacy of Dr. Holley and those who now reap the benefits of his hard work. One of the joys of my work is engaging with our alumni, faculty, staff and students. They often share with me their extraordinary achievements and plans.

The Blue & Gold Scholarship Gala is an opportunity to ensure that current and future Golden Rams are placed in the best financial situation possible to obtain an education. The generous financial investments from individuals, businesses and organizations allow the university to continue elevating and empowering ASU students and the Albany community.

So many great things are happening at Albany State. You, our dedicated alumni, supporters and friends of the university, should be proud. In March, we welcomed 2,100 prospective students and family members to the institution for our annual Spring Open House. The event provided a first-hand look at the benefits of becoming a Golden Ram. We also held our third annual Presidential Bus Tour through which we connected with high school students in Dougherty County and Terrell County and provided admissions information, on-the-spot acceptances, and on-sight scholarships.

In the fall, ASU became the first university in the University System of Georgia and the only historically black college or university (HBCU) in the country to have nexus degrees in blockchain technology. ASU graduates have jobs with IBM because of the work we are currently doing with the emerging technology. This new degree program allows us to compete with more tech-centered universities.

Behind the accolades and accomplishments – at the core of the institution – are eager students prepared to push academic boundaries and reach successes they never thought possible. Every day, our alumni and students take steps toward making differences for their families and communities. The Blue & Gold Scholarship Gala will celebrate these achievements and lay the foundation for greater successes.

I look forward to joining in this special occasion with the Albany community. The continued success of our students, Albany State, and the Albany community is truly what unites us all.

Marion Fedrick is president of Albany State University.

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