Alabama State University celebrated a year of transformational leadership, student achievement and unprecedented philanthropic support during its 2026 President’s Gala, held under the theme “Illuminating Leadership. Elevating Legacy.”
The sold-out evening at the Renaissance Montgomery Convention Center brought together University supporters, alumni, corporate partners, community leaders, faculty, staff and friends of Alabama State University for a night dedicated to commemorating the impact of investing in the institution and, most significantly, in its students.
From the moment guests entered the venue, the theme was brought to life through an elegant white-and-gold setting. The décor and atmosphere reflected the evening’s message of illumination and legacy, creating a fitting backdrop for an occasion centered on the University's accomplishments and its continued commitment to student success.
Student talent and achievement were highlighted as a central part of the program, showcasing the excellence, creativity and potential of the University's next generation of leaders.
“We wanted to remind those who support us that at the heart of Alabama State University’s mission is its students,” explained ASU President, Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr.
The Gala also served as an opportunity for Alabama State University to express its appreciation to the sponsors, donors and supporters whose generosity continues to create opportunities for students.
That commitment was demonstrated in a special way during the evening when two students were awarded scholarships totaling $10,000. The awards represented more than financial assistance. They served as a tangible example of the University's commitment to investing philanthropic resources back into its students and helping remove financial barriers that can stand between students and a college degree.
“When we give to our universities, particularly our Historically Black Colleges and Universities, we are investing in dreams. We are opening doors. Most importantly, we are helping ensure that every student has an equal opportunity to cross the finish line and earn a college degree,” said Col. (Ret.) Gregory Clark, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Alabama State University Foundation. “For our students, your generosity can be the difference between stopping short and walking across that graduation stage. Your support provides scholarships, resources, academic support, technology, and opportunities that help solidify student success and prepare our graduates for lives of purpose and impact.”
Clark’s words reflected the prevailing purpose of the evening: to celebrate the accomplishments of Alabama State University while continuing to build a pathway for future generations of students to succeed.
President Ross challenged those gathered to view their personal success and influence as opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others.
His charge was simple and powerful: “Lift as you climb. Open doors. Pour into somebody else.”
Ross encouraged the audience to remember the people who invested in them throughout their own journeys and to carry that same spirit of investment forward by creating opportunities for others.
By the conclusion of the evening, the power of strategic investments was evident in the announcement of a historic fundraising year for Alabama State University. The University announced a grand fundraising total of more than $52 million, marking a significant milestone in the institution's philanthropic history.
The record-setting support will help Alabama State University continue to advance its mission, strengthen programs and create opportunities that directly impact students and the University's future.
The evening of illumination culminated with a powerful performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Anthony Hamilton, bringing guests to their feet and providing a memorable finale to an event centered on leadership, gratitude, generosity and legacy.
As the 2026 President’s Gala came to a close, the message of the evening extended beyond the lights, décor and celebration. It was a reminder that legacy is built through action, leadership is demonstrated through service, and the most meaningful investment is one that opens a door for someone else.
For Alabama State University, “Illuminating Leadership. Elevating Legacy.” was more than a theme. It was a reflection of a University community committed to lifting its students, expanding opportunity and building a legacy that will illuminate the path for generations to come.
“When I look around this room, I don't simply see success. I see legacy,” said President Ross. “I see what can happen when gifts are nurtured, when faith meets purpose, and when people make the decision to pour into something greater than themselves. The scripture, Proverbs 18:16, reminds us that ‘a man’s gift maketh room for him.’ Alabama State University has been making room for gifted people for generations; and because of your generosity and support, we will continue to ‘make room for greatness’ for generations to come.”