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Founder's Week Celebration

All Roads Lead to THE HILL for AAMU鈥檚 150th Founder鈥檚 Week Celebration!

April 26 - May 4, 2025 | Alabama A&M University


It鈥檚 time to come home, Bulldogs! All roads lead to The Hill as we mark 150 years of life, legacy, leadership, and excellence in honor of our visionary founder, Dr. William Hooper Councill. This isn鈥檛 just a celebration鈥攊t鈥檚 a movement. This milestone celebration is dedicated to honoring his enduring legacy,  our Rich Heritage, and the Bold Future his vision continues to inspire. A testament to the resilience, power, and excellence that define AAMU.

For one historic week, April 26 - May 4, The Hill will be alive with:

      • Unforgettable events honoring our past, present, and future
      • Electrifying performances that capture the AAMU spirit
      • Opportunities to connect, reflect, give back and celebrate 150 years of greatness

Whether you鈥檙e a proud alum, a current student, or a future Bulldog, this is YOUR moment. Stand in the legacy. Own the excellence. 


Can鈥檛 make it to The Hill? You can still be part of this historic moment! Support AAMU鈥檚 150th by making a contribution toward our $15 million alumni fundraising goal. Your gift ensures that our legacy of excellence, education, and empowerment continues for generations to come. 

To leave your mark on The Hill, or purchase a special near the Historic Bell Tower on the block.


Schedule of Events

  • Monday, April 28th

    Oratorical Contest and Bulldog Beat Performance
    5:30 PM | Bradford Auditorium

    AAMU students showcase their public speaking and artistic talents in this inspiring collaboration between the Oratorical Contest.  With a special performance by Bulldog Beat.

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  • Tuesday, April 29th

    Band Concert
    7:00 PM | The Fellowship of Faith Church

    Enjoy an electrifying performance by the AAMU Band as they take the stage for a night of musical excellence.

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  • Wednesday, April 30th 

    Maroon Hour: The Founder's Day Countdown

    Wednesday, April 30, 2025 | The Quad | 10:00pm-12:30am

     Kick off an unforgettable weekend of celebration with Maroon Hour, the official Founder鈥檚 Day Countdown event! As the campus prepares to honor the rich legacy of Alabama A&M University, this late-night gathering sets the tone with high energy, unity, and Bulldog pride.

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  • Thursday, May 1st

    Dr. William Hooper Councill Footprint Tour
    Sponsored by 150th History Committee

    Experience History in Motion

    Follow the legacy of Dr. William Hooper Councill as we trace his historic impact from the heart of campus to downtown Huntsville. This immersive tour will highlight key locations that shaped his journey and contributions.

    • Walk the path of a visionary.
    • Explore the landmarks of his legacy.
    • Connect with the rich history of our institution.

    Details Coming Soon! Stay tuned for more information on this special event celebrating our 150th Founder's Week.


    150th Founder's Day Coffee & Conversations
    1:30 PM | Clyde Foster

    RSVP 

    Engage with AAMU鈥檚 esteemed leaders, alumni, and historians as they discuss the past, present, and future of Alabama A&M University.

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  • Friday, May 2nd

    Convocation & Wreath Lay Ceremony
    Photo of Dr. Mark Berry

    10:30 AM | Bradford Auditorium

    Keynote Speaker: Dr. Mark S. Berry '91, SVP, Southern Company
    Honor our university鈥檚 legacy and impact during this formal convocation featuring a keynote address from Dr. Mark S. Berry, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony in remembrance of our esteemed founder.


    This Event is free to the public, but in order to properly prepare for your arrival, we encourage attendees to. 

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  • Saturday, May 3rd

    AAMU Alumni Association Awards Luncheon
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM | The Ernest Knight Reception Center

    Join the AAMU Alumni Association as we recognize outstanding alumni making an impact in their fields. Nominations for awards are open until the end of the month. Please contact Belinda Fitts at 256-372-5014 for additional information. 


    Networking with Normalites

    7:00 PM - 11:00 PM | The Event Center 
    Cost: TBD

    Connect, network, and celebrate at the Alumni Mixer鈥攁 night of nostalgia and camaraderie. Location and time will be announced soon.

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  • Sunday, May 4th  

    Worship Service & Memorial Walk
    10:00 AM | St. John AME Church
    229 Church St NW, Huntsville, AL 35801

    Memorial Walk 
    Immediately Following Service | The Original Site of Campus

    Closing out Founder鈥檚 Week with a spirit-filled worship service and Memorial Walk to reflect on the incredible journey of AAMU over the past 150 years.

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Get Involved!

      • Attend the Founder's Week activities
      • Volunteer your time at one of the event
      • Keep checking AAMU鈥檚 website for updates on event locations and details.
      • Share your Founder鈥檚 Week memories using #AAMU150 on social media!

We can't wait to celebrate with you!


Point of Contact

For additional information, please contact Sandra Stubbs at sandra.stubbs@aamu.edu or (256) 372-8351.