Alabama State University celebrated more than one kickoff when the ASU Hornets took the field against Jackson State University during a sold-out ASU Homecoming game at ASU Stadium on Saturday, October 8. ASU launched a celebration of alumni and supporters who “Came Back to Give Back” to their alma mater.
At halftime, several returning alumni showed their Hornet Pride by collectively donating $155,000 to O’ Mother Dear.
The total includes a check for $100,000 from the founder and CEO of Right Hand Co., Right Hand Foundation and the Network ATL, Courtney Stewart, whose parents joined him on the field for the presentation. His donation will create scholarships for communications students and multiple enhancements to ASU’s communication department.
Check presentations also included a monetary donation of $25,000 from the Beta Oop Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha. The chapter’s donations will create scholarships as well.
The momentum continued when the 2022 members of 50 Under 50 presented a check for $30,000 to help create scholarships for a student in each of ASU’s seven colleges.
“This is the third consecutive year (2020, 2021 and 2022) where we have had 100% giving from the classes of 50 Under 50,” said Audrey Parks, Director of Development in the Division of Institutional Advancement.
Members of 50 Under 50 are an exceptional group of honorees who are under the age of 50 who have distinguished themselves as leaders in their respective fields, exemplify ASU’s enduring legacy of perseverance, progress and promise, and are ambassadors for ASU.
“The donations of ASU alumni and supporters are key to the University’s ability to deliver on its mission to continue to serve the sons and daughters of Alabama and beyond. We would like to thank our alumni and friends who care about the University’s mission by financially investing in the institution’s future, our students and the communities we serve,” said COL (ret) Gregory L. Clark, Vice President for Institutional Advancement.
Parks agreed that the giving nature of the Hornet community has helped ASU reach its goals.
“We are thankful for the generosity of Alabama State University alumni, friends, and community members. Valuable supporters like these ensure the institution continues to progress in the right direction,” Parks added.
Saturday’s supporters invite others to come “home” not only to enjoy all the Homecoming pageantry and festivities, but also to “Come Back and Give Back” to ensure ASU’s legacy.
“We must ensure that Alabama State University continues to thrive for generations to come so that deserving students from all backgrounds have access to an ASU education,” said Stewart.