By Kenneth Mullinax/ASU
Two Alabama State University students have been selected as members of the 2024 cohort of The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Scholars. Michael Stallworth, Jr. of Mobile, Ala. and Amia Calandrea Carter of Montgomery, Ala. are among the 110 outstanding students named from 77 of the nation’s HBCUs.
President Joe Biden's U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona, shared that Alabama State University’s students, as well as the others who are part of this year’s group of honorees, were selected for their "exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and dedication to their communities."
“For 10 years, the HBCU Scholars program has celebrated the exceptional academic talent and achievements of students at our Historically Black Colleges and Universities – a recognition that reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s determination to fight for our nation’s HBCUs and their immense contributions to excellence and diversity in higher education,” said Secretary Cardona. “This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey.”
Both Carter and Stallworth were excited and humbled by the White House honor.
Stallworth, who is a senior majoring in Accounting, is the son of Aretha and Michael Stallworth, Sr. of Mobile, Ala.
"To win this award is a great personal honor to me and to my mother and father, who both have always supported and nurtured me so I will do well both academically and as a person," stated Stallworth. "I also must thank The Alabama State University, whose professors and leaders have mentored me and impacted my college life in such an important way that it has molded me into a leader, both on campus and in my community."
Carter is a junior majoring in Communications/Radio and Television. She is the daughter of Aimee and Cleve Carter, III, of Montgomery, Ala.
"I am beyond happy to have won this White House honor, which speaks highly of both Alabama State and the great way my parents raised me," Carter said. "The University's assistance has been immeasurable in providing me with the resources and opportunity so I may be an advocate for my community and do well personally in life by having a great education. I must also thank my school mentor, Dr. Kenneth Dean, the advisor of our Hornet Tribune newspaper, who has taught me the principals of journalism."
Since its inception in 2014, the HBCU Scholars program has been committed to recognizing and supporting the brightest and best service-oriented minds from HBCUs. The program has empowered more than 500 students, providing them with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth, mentorship, and networking.
This year’s group of HBCU Scholars were selected from a competitive pool of more than 350 applicants. The 2024 cohort includes students from a diverse array of disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, math, humanities, social sciences, and the arts.
These scholars have demonstrated not only academic excellence but also a strong commitment to service and leadership in their communities. Throughout the year, the HBCU Scholars will engage in a series of workshops, leadership development programs, and networking events that are designed to enhance their skills and expand their horizons, explained Dietra Trent, executive director of The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
"These students exemplify the excellence and leadership that is characteristic of the HBCU community,” said Trent. “I anticipate and look forward to our partnership over the next academic school year.”