pres_report_9x12

Vision. Leadership. Transformation. 2008-2012 ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Table of ContentsFEATURES 2 Knight v. State A candid interview with William H. Harris and John F. Knight Jr. 36 O Chére Mere! Harris’s Vision of a Global Classroom: Not Lost in Translation 42 Harris’s Contributions to Tradition & Legacy A photo essayTHE VISION COMES TO LIFE:ASU’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS FROM 2008-2012 6 Overview 8 Goal 1: Organization 11 Goal 2: Academic Integrity 17 Goal 3: Fiscal Responsibility 18 Goal 4: Public Perception 20 Goal 5: The Physical Campus 26 Goal 6: Strengthening Relationships 30 Goal 7: Student Programs and Services 35 Goal 8: A World-Ready Institution

Welcome…“In order for a University to fulfill its purpose effectively, it must pursue a vision, and that vision must be sufficiently bold to shape the institution for decades to come. Thus is the vision of Alabama State University.” – President William H. Harris www.alasu.edu | 1

Knight v. Alabama A Candid Interview with William H. Harris and John F. Knight Jr.2 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

By Tina Joly and Lois G. Russell lawsuit? Knight: It was important to me personally because I happen One of the most significant events in the history of Alabama to be from Montgomery, Ala. I came up in a segregated high State University was the filing of and the subsequent consent school that was eventually closed then integrated. I went to decree related to a legal case that has become known as Booker T. Washington High School. I felt that it was unfair the Knight v. State of Alabama. While Harris was not president way that (integration) was handled and when I saw the same of the University at the time that it was filed in 1981, he did thing happening at our colleges, then I felt very strongly and become a central figure in its progression when he came to agreed with Dr. Watkins that something should be done. ASU as president. Harris and executive vice president/Chief Operating Officer John F. Knight Jr. fought the “good fight” to John Knight, Donald Watkins and Alma Freeman make sure that Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University reaped their just benefits from the case. Lawsuit Participants with John Knight: • Alma S. Freeman • John T. Gibson • Susan Buskey Many of the Knight v. State of Alabama results are noted in this • Carl Petty • Dennis Charles Barnett • Vonda Cross report—new buildings, new academic programs—those things • Tammi Palmer • Alease S. Sims • Stacey Levise Sims that form the basis of the Vision 2020 Plan for ASU. • Gary Mitchell Jr. • Grover L. Brown • Frederick Carodine • Frankie Patricia Yarbrough • Charles Edwards McMillan Media specialist Tina Joly recently videotaped a joint interview • Horace W. Rice • Anthony Y. Lavonne Thompson for the ASU archives with Drs. Harris and Knight to capture • Kreslyon Lynette Valrie • Taylor Byrd • Dan Tibbs Jr. the history of the landmark case and the associated struggle toward a consent decree, as well as to reveal some of the Question: What were some of the important things that personal feelings the two “warriors” have about Knight v. you wanted to get out of that lawsuit? Alabama. Portions of that interview are contained in the Knight: I don’t think it was necessarily a matter of whatQ&Afollowing pages. I wanted to get out of the lawsuit; it was a combination ofQuestion: Dr. Knight, you were there at the beginning. people working together — the lawyers, at that time PresidentHow did it all start? What was the spark? Watkins, all of the alumni, students — determining exactly what the issues were and what we would ask for in the lawsuitKnight: It started under the leadership of Dr. Levi Watkins and what we had a chance of really obtaining. So, it tookwho was president of Alabama State University at the time. Dr. some time to come to a conclusion on all of the things weWatkins had studied what was going on around the country could try to get as it relates to the University, (especially) theas it related to Historically Black Colleges and Universities programmatic things. The main thing was to make sure there(HBCUs), and he had an interest in making certain that was no threat to the survival of Alabama State University, asAlabama State University, in particular, was protected (there well as Alabama A&M University. Fortunately, we achievedwere many cases of mergers and HBCUs being closed), so he that.studied various cases that had taken place … in Tennesseeand other places across the country. He brought a group of Question: Dr. Harris when you came to ASU the first timepeople together to discuss what strategies should be used as President, a decision had been made in the Knight v.to try to protect the University. After getting those groupstogether, a lawsuit was filed on Jan. 15, 1981, in federal courthere in Montgomery. It was called Knight v. James at thatparticular time. There were a number of things requestedin that lawsuit, including the merger of AUM and Troy intoAlabama State University. That went on for some time, andthat’s how it really got started … lawyers … the president ofthe University (and other) people trying to determine whatwould be in the best interest of the state of Alabama as welooked at this particular issue.Question: As an alumnus and longtime ASU employee,why was it important to you personally to be a part of this www.alasu.edu | 3

From top: Former ASU president, State lawsuit. You were asked to work on some lawyers who were very committed to Levi Watkins, civil rights attorney the proposed remedy for all of those years the case as well. You can’t talk about this Solomon Seay, Judge Harold of unequal support from the state. What case without talking about Jim Blackshear, Murphy and attorney Kenny was the first thing that went through your Solomon Seay and Donald Watkins. I can go Thomas. mind when you learned that you were on and on giving credit to all of them. They going to work on the consent decree? worked very hard on this particular case4 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation. to try to bring it to fruition. (Editor’s note: Harris: I think there is a lot more history Attorney Kenny Thomas was also mentioned before we get to my being involved. (We as a young lawyer on the case). haven’t even dealt with) the whole matter of U.W. (Clemon) and all of the judges being Question: I understand that the financing disqualified and all of the machinations. of the lawsuit became a really grassroots This is a story that is considerably more effort. interesting than just the filing and what happened in 1994. We have the whole matter Knight: We were private plaintiffs; the state of the 1991 trial and the findings in the 11th didn’t pay our legal fees or anything else Circuit Court of Appeals. for us to file this lawsuit. We had alumni chapters from across the country from Knight: Maybe a year after we filed the Alabama State and A&M (that) held fish suit in the middle district, another suit was fries, raffles and meetings across the state filed in the northern district by the (Alabama) and the nation. People were sending money Department of Education, which was to support the case. That’s how what was seeking the same thing in that lawsuit that known as FASUD (Fund for Alabama State had happened in Tennessee. We moved to University Defense) got started. The money intervene in that lawsuit so you wouldn’t they raised went to pay for the legal defense. have two cases going on at the same time. We were known as the Knight Interveners. Question: What did you want to see after Judge U.W. Clemon was the judge selected the ruling, Dr. Harris; after you got here in a random process. He happened to have and started working on a remedy? been a black federal judge in the state of Alabama. All of the other universities Harris: In 1991, the 11th Circuit (Court of challenged Judge Clemon’s ability to serve Appeals) had to go outside of Alabama to on the case and not be biased. They had all Georgia to get a judge who was unbiased to types of challenges, such as at one time he hear the case and that was Harold Murphy. served in the Alabama legislature, and he Judge Murphy conducted a long trial that voted on appropriations for Alabama State resulted in a finding of fact and law and and Alabama A&M … or he might have some remedy in 1991. In my preparation to come children or grandchildren who might one day here, I read that 800-plus page document attend an HBCU. He was finally taken off that he prepared and found two things: One, the case, (but he had already) made certain it was one of the most brilliant analyses of findings in the case, so there had come what had happened in Alabama concerning a time for the remedy stage (and certain Alabama State and Alabama A&M that I’d questions had to be answered) … It’s a long ever seen; (and two) what he decided to do history. That’s almost a story by itself — the as far as remedy, I thought terribly worrisome legal maneuvers and everything that took and miniscule. It wasn’t much at all. After he place in that particular part of the case. issued his decision, our people here and the government of the United States appealed Harris: (The maneuverings) went on for the decision to the 11th Circuit claiming that about a decade. I think (Judge Clemon) had he had not done enough on remedy. Nobody a good idea of what the remedy ought to be; opposed his findings, but he hadn’t done that’s why they got rid of him. Because we enough on remedy. Dr. Knight you were here live so much in the Murphy Era of Knight v. during those trials. I think he made it very State of Alabama, (we sometimes omit) all of clear during the trial that he (Murphy) didn’t the early work that went on by you (Knight) see remedy as what he was supposed to be and Judge Clemon. He was tortured trying doing. to keep that case. There are a lot of heroes in that case who kind of get lost, and Judge Knight: Since you’re going into that period, Clemon is one of them let me say that one of the most important things that happened during that period of Question: Dr. Knight, did you ever want to time was bringing Dr. William H. Harris to give up? the campus of Alabama State University; and I mean that very sincerely. When he got Knight: No, I’m a fighter. I never wanted here he had thoroughly read everything that to give up. It was very challenging. We had had taken place with that case and he came

with ideas and a vision of what was needed for Historically Black It would be unfair to say that we told the court what to do, but itColleges and Universities — new programs and things of that is remarkable — if you look at the document that we prepared innature. He led the lawyers and influenced the courts by the things preparation for the trial and for consideration by the court — whatthat he put together. I don’t know if anybody else could have done we got. Some of the wisdom and judgment that Judge Murphyit at that particular time than the person that came in to take the finally used was just his own ability to piece these things together;leadership role at the University. so, I don’t make any claims of having told him what to do. Part of the problem with Knight v. the State of Alabama is that theHarris: Our job was to tell the lawyers that after we win, this is court considered that a lot of people at Alabama State Universitywhat we want and you tell us how to go about getting it. I prepared didn’t want diversity. That was a major problem for us. We had toa draft of a document called “Remedy Proposal” for Knight v. overcome it several times. We wrote in the piece that I mentionedState of Alabama. In it, we spelled out what we thought the judge earlier, that unless they put top-rate programs on the campusought to consider in his remedy. The single most important thing that would attract other races of people, we were always going towe did was that we told our lawyers, “You’ve got to center on be segregated — and not for our reasons, but for other reasons.the question of mission.” Mission controls everything. It controls One of the things we had to do (was) to have a special meetingthe breadth and depth of courses and programmatic offerings, it of the Board of Trustees to pass a resolution specifically affirmingcontrols funding and it controls resources, such as facilities and the University’s commitment to being an interracial institution.buildings. Our argument was for the lawyers to tell the court that The court pretty much insisted that we do that. The court handedover the course of years the state of Alabama had illegally limited down its remedy and in its final decree said specifically, “You havethe University’s mission. We were pretty much a teacher education got to do something about integrating the student population andcollege and that’s (where) the state wanted to keep us. We wanted the faculty and staff.” In the case of students, the court gave thea law school, we didn’t get it; we wanted a nursing school, and University a million dollars a year for 10 years for (minority) studentthey said there’s already one in Montgomery at Troy; we wanted scholarships to integrate the population of Alabama State.there to be a public policy institute (because) this is the capital ofthe state of Alabama — if anybody’s going to be thinking about Knight: I think it was a brilliant decision and I think what the courtpublic policy, they ought to be doing it here and we should have was saying as well was that (it would) validate (us) as Universitiesbeen leading in that area. We also asked for schools in new places — both Alabama State and Alabama A&M — but (we couldn’t) be(that) we had never been, like the health sciences. We asked for validated as a black college. (We had to) be fully integrated. It’sa Master of Business Administration; we didn’t get it, but we got always been that way; but we couldn’t convince the court that ita Master of Accountancy. We asked for doctoral degrees in fields wasn’t our own doing that we didn’t have other race students. So,other than education. We got a doctorate of education, (but we the court said (they would) put a mechanism in place to attractneeded) a doctorate somewhere else, and that’s where the Ph.D. in minority students. That was one of the most controversial partsmicrobiology came in. of the entire ruling. The only thing he (Murphy) said to Alabama State University, in my mind, was that (he was) not going to justQuestion: Take us back to the day that you first learned of the give (us) money to build buildings, but (we were also) going to havejudge’s decision. programmatic things (in place) and (we would) have to prove to the court that (we are) capable of implementation before (we got) anyHarris: When Judge Murphy issued his decision on the 1st of money from the state. I think the court struggled with the politicalAugust in 1995, I remember distinctly what we were doing. John realities of the state of Alabama and what the law was.and I were together, and we were headed to Tuscaloosa. Welearned that day that the Judge had handed down a decision and The interview with Drs. Knight and Harris lasted for nearly an hour.it was going to be released at 8 o’clock, as I recall, in Birmingham. This article gives some of the highlights of their experience in theSo, on the way to Tuscaloosa, we were so determined to see filing, legal maneuverings and final settlement of the landmarkthat document that we stopped in Birmingham and picked it up Knight v. State of Alabama lawsuit. We felt that it was importantthat morning. John drove, and I rode and read. When we got to to begin this report by revisiting the lawsuit, since much of theTuscaloosa, we knew what was in that decision. We knew we had “transformation” of Alabama State University is a direct result of thewon, and we knew that what we had won was good. landmark decision in the case. www.alasu.edu | 5

The Vision Comes to Life: ASU’s Accomplishments from 2008-2012Please use the following legend to help you navigate the many accomplishments that have occurredat ASU during Dr. Harris’s second tenure. Each of the colored icons identifies a specific goal of theVision 2020 Transformation Plan.Goal 1: Organize the University Goal 5: Develop and maintainin such a manner as to provide the physical campus so thatsufficient and appropriate the University is a productive,leadership, management and pleasant place to work, studyoversight to achieve its mission and live.and goals.Goal 2: Ensure the academic Goal 6: Ensure that theintegrity of the University. University responds to all of its constituents.Goal 3: Ensure the fiscal Goal 7: Improve programsintegrity of the University. and services that will contribute to the developmentGoal 4: Enhance the public’s of wholesome student life.perception of the Universityin order to increase external Goal 8: Foster continuoussupport. improvement of daily operations to become a world-class institution of higher learning. The VisionUtilizing carefully husbanded human and monetary resources, the entire ASU constituency will contribute to thetransformation of the University into an institution unlike the one that currently exists. Our vision is that by 2020,ASU will be transformed into a Level VI Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges(SACS COC) classified institution, offering doctoral degrees in four or more major academic or professionaldisciplines. In realizing its mission, ASU will become one of the premier comprehensive and diverse institutionsof higher education in the state of Alabama through achieving excellence in teaching, research and publicservice.6 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

“Mission drives everything; if your mission is narrow, then what you do isnarrow. If we were an undergraduate liberal arts college, that’s one thing—andthat’s important, but that’s not what we envisioned Alabama State to be. Wewanted to be a diverse University, very different from what we had been, andwe needed a broad mission—a mission with vision to accomplish that goal.” – Dr. William H. Harris www.alasu.edu | 7

Goal 1: OrganizationSeated: Dr. John F. Knight Jr., Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer. Standing, from left: Eric Thornton, interim vice president for Buildingsand Grounds; Danielle M. Kennedy, vice president for University Relations; Stacy Danley, director of Intercollegiate Athletics; Henry Davis, ExecutiveDirector of Public Safety; Dr. Bernadette Chapple, Associate Executive Vice President; Dr. Freddie Gallott, vice president for Business and Finance; andCarmen Douglas, vice president for Human Resources. A New Organizational Structure “The president of a university should be a leader, not a manager,” Harris said. “The new organizational structure has put into place first-rate leadership to handle the day-to-day organizational operations and academics.” Organization Dr. Alfred Smith, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, echoes Harris’s view on the importance of strong leadership. “There is no“T he reorganization of ASU was substitute for strong leadership,” said Smith. “Strong important because the University has leadership provides the direction for ASU’s future and sets the example for those responsible for1two money centers: one is the day- implementing the University’s vision.”to-day operational functions and the The new organizational structure of ASU’sother is the academic side. Those two administration (see page 10) created a three-prongedfunctions needed really first-rate, day- approach that has led to more efficient managementto-day oversight.” and oversight; the senior leadership of the new structure ensures smooth functionality and superior – Dr. William H. Harris performance. “The president has to be a visionary and more than anything else has to have time to think and represent the interests of the entire enterprise; therefore,8 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 1: OrganizationFront row: Dr. Alfred S. Smith, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. Second Row: Dr. Steven Chesbro, dean of the College of HealthSciences; Dr. Janice Franklin, dean of the Levi Watkins Learning Center; Dr. William Person, dean of the Graduate School; Dr. Le-Quita Booth, deanof the College of Business Administration; Dr. Cajetan Akujoubi, dean of the College of Science, Mathematics and Technology; Dr. Tommie Stewart,dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts; Dr. Leon Wilson, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences; Dr. Evelyn Hodge, dean ofUniversity College; Dr. Linda Phaire-Washington, associate provost for the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs; Dr. Sharron Herron-Williams,interim associate provost for Academic Affairs: Cherise Peters, associate provost and vice president for Enrollment Management. Third Row: Dr. CharlieGibbons, interim dean of the College of Education; Dr. William H. Hytche, interim provost and vice president for Student Affairs.someone had to be overseeing the other two enterprises of daily Office of the Provostfunctional operations and academics,” said Dr. Harris. The Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic AffairsOffice of Executive Vice President oversees the other enterprise named by Harris. Having an Office of the Provost ensures that the University precisely and effectively“I convinced the Board that we had to have an executive vice completes its academic functions. Any area affecting a student’spresident and chief operating officer who had clear authority ability to succeed in his/her academic program is housed underand responsibility to execute the management of the operational the Office of Provost and Academic Affairs. The office overseesfunctions of the University,” Harris said. Creating this office not the academic programs offered through the colleges and schoolsonly allows the president to focus on the mission of the University, at ASU and serves as an umbrella agency, where all student needsHarris said, but it also ensures that the noninstructional functions are housed, including all functions of the Library, Admissions,of the University are carried out efficiently and effectively. Financial Aid, Records and Registration, Residential Life, Student Organizations, Career Services, Counseling Services, HealthThe Executive Vice President oversees noninstructional staff in Services, Disability Services and Athletic Support.the divisions of Athletics, Buildings and Grounds, Business andFinance, Human Resources, Public Safety, University Relations, According to Dr. Smith, the creation of this office has enabledand Continuing Education. In addition, the office oversees the ASU to better serve its students. “The creation of the Office ofoperational functions of three research centers: the Center for the Provost helped ASU realize its mission by placing all of theNanoBiotechnology and Life Sciences Research, the Center for student-related activities under one office,” said Smith. “ThisLeadership and Public Policy and the National Center for the Study has enabled all of these activities, such as Student Affairs andof Civil Rights and African-American Culture at Alabama State Enrollment Management to be better coordinated without the needUniversity. to cut across administrative lines.” www.alasu.edu | 9

Goal 1: Organization10 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation. ALABThAeMUnAiveSrsTityAOTrgEanUizaNtioInValECRhaSrtITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES SECRETARY TO THE BOARD BOARD LIAISON PRESIDENT Planning & Provost/Vice President Administrative Council Athletic Council Chief Operating Officer (COO)/Effectiveness for Academic Affairs Title III University Counsel Executive Vice President Associate Associate Associate Associate CNBR Continuing Audit & University Provost Provost/ Provost & Provost/ CLPP Education Compliance Police VP/Student Enrollment NCSCRAAC for Office Management Academic Research & Affairs Sponsored Assistant VP Affairs Programs for Enrollment VP for Information VP for University VP for Human VP for Buildings Director of Athletics VP for Business Management Technology Relations Resources & Grounds & Finance Aerospace Studies Asst. VP/ Retention Associate VP Associate VP for Center for Perpetual Asst. VP for Inventory Asst. VP/Comptroller Student Affairs for Academic Development Training & Protocol Buildings Control Accounting Director of Orientation & Computing & Grounds Planning & Student Activities Campus Tours Alumni Relations Payroll Evaluation Judicial Affairs Management Transportation Student Accounts Admissions & Information Systems Marketing Physical Plant Director Disability Services Recruitment University Events Bursar of Quality Telecommunications Enhancement Health Financial WVAS Auxiliary Services Services Aid Media Relations Sr. Associate AD Copy Center Plan Counseling for Operations Services Records and Publications Budget Director Director of Career Registration Sr. Associate AD Purchasing Institutional Services Facilities for Business and Research Minority & Academic/ Management Grants Accounting International Athletic Finance Student Affairs Advisement Assistant AD for & National Compliance Student Exchange Updated 7/17/12 Residential Life & Housing Dean Dean, College of Dean Dean Dean Dean Dean Dean Dean College of Liberal Science, Mathematics College of Business College of College of Health University College College of Visual Graduate School Levi Watkins LibraryArts & Social Sciences Education & Performing Arts & Learning Center & Technology Administration Sciences Associate Dean Associate Dean Assoc.Dean Assoc.Dean Associate Dean Associate Director Associate Dean Associate Dean Associate Dean

Goal 2: AcademicsAcademic Integrity1 “We had to get beyond the point of thinking that the only reason for a university is degree production. The purpose of a university is far more than that: it is for expansion of2 the mind, immersion in the community and interchange with people around the country and the world.” – Dr. William H. Harris During Harris’s second tenure at ASU, planning, writing and implementing proposalsThe HBCU Health Disparities in he assembled a team of exceptional for grants to fund research and public serviceRehabilitation Conference spotlighted administration, faculty and staff which has programs.the inaugural BWEL speaker, Dr. Leon resulted in the creation and application ofSullivan, former secretary of the U.S. high academic standards. These standards Centers of ExcellenceDepartment of Health and Human have led to the creation of Centers ofServices and president emeritus of the Excellence in many of ASU’s colleges, the “In order to understand how Centers ofMorehouse School of Medicine. Below, reaffirmation of the University’s accreditation Excellence have added to the academicDr. Sullivan (center) is pictured with Dr. by the Southern Association of Colleges integrity of the University, it is importantBernadette Williams-York, associate dean and Schools Commission on Colleges to understand the role of Centers ofof the College of Health Sciences, and Dr. (SACS COC), the new accreditation and Excellence,” said Dr. Smith, retired interimSteven Chesbro, dean of the College of reaffirmation of academic programs, the provost and vice president for AcademicHealth Sciences. establishment of new academic programs Affairs. “A Center of Excellence is an and departments, the growth of co-curricular exemplary academic program that has and out-of-class learning opportunities, the distinguished itself as a niche market for the expansion and renovation of the Levi Watkins University. It promotes innovative research, Learning Center (LWLC), and the increase of teaching and learning practices that establish faculty and staff involvement in it as a leader in the region and beyond.” As of June 2012, five of the eight colleges and schools at ASU have either developed or envisioned Centers of Excellence. These centers serve the broader mission of the University by creating a national and international presence with one-of-a-kind services and programming. The centers founded in academic programs present opportunities to broaden the mission of each college and to focus on the specific issues of the colleges’ Continued to page 13 www.alasu.edu | 11

Goal 2: Academics Centers of Excellence Center for Teaching, Learning To support educational initiatives and Professional Development based on current research College of Education and best practice that lead to programs and facilities which improve the quality of teachers and other school personnel in Alabama and beyond“A Center of Excellence Center for Entrepreneurship, To introduce and motivatepromotes innovative Innovation, and Change students toward the concepts ofresearch, teaching and College of Business Administration entrepreneurship and leadershiplearning practices that and to offer entrepreneurialestablish it as a leader in the initiatives through communityregion and beyond.” outreach that will contribute to the economic development of – Dr. Alfred S. Smith Alabama and the southern region interim provost and vice president for Center of Excellence for To provide opportunities for Academic Affairs International Business faculty, students and the College of Business Administration business community to develop and broaden their international business expertise and cross- cultural understanding Center to Advance To address the rehabilitative health Rehabilitative Health needs of all individuals and to and Education pursue research addressing health College of Health Sciences disparities in rehabilitation Silvera-Richards-Stewart To promote and perpetuate the Center for the Study of Being concept of “Being,” an acting at ASU method developed by director, College of Visual and actor, producer and writer, Frank Performing Arts Silvera, pioneered by actress Beah Richards, and utilized and taught by Dr. Tommie Stewart, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts Center for Communications To deliver cutting-edge and Applied Media curricula and state-of-the-art, College of Liberal Arts hands-on experiences that and Social Sciences ensure successful transition into professional employment opportunities in communications and mass media12 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

The Master of Science in Prosthetics and Goal 2: AcademicsOrthotics is one of several high-demand degreeprograms in the College of Health Sciences.  New DepartmentsContinued from page 11 For many of ASU’s colleges, new academic & Degree/ programs are crucial to ensuring academic Certificationprograms and fields of study. integrity in their colleges because the Programs programs allow them to more effectivelyAccreditations address issues and emerging trends within COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, their disciplines. The programs also are MATHEMATICS ANDIn 2010, The Southern Association of important because they attract a more TECHNOLOGY Colleges and Schools, Commission on diverse population of students, faculty and ■ B achelor of Science inColleges (SACS-COC) formally reaffirmed the staff.accreditation of ASU as a Level V institution Forensic Chemistrywith the ability to award bachelor’s, master’s, According to Dr. Tommie Stewart, dean of ■ M aster of Science ineducation specialist and doctorate degrees. the College of Visual and Performing Arts,In addition, numerous national and state “Creating more specialized programs, such Forensic Scienceaccreditation organizations and associations as the newly approved B.F.A. in dance, nothave approved a variety of ASU’s degree only addresses the specific interests of COLLEGE OFprograms. current students, but also draws potential HEALTH SCIENCES students to ASU.” ■ M aster of RehabilitationAccording to Smith, “The reaffirmation ofexisting accreditations and affirmation of new Moreover, new programs, such as the Master Counselingaccreditations is one of the most important of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics ■ M aster of Science infactors in determining the quality and (MSPO), are significant in establishing ASUintegrity of ASU’s academic programs.” as a world-class institution because they Prosthetics and Orthotics establish niche programs. ■ B achelor of Science inIn many cases, graduating from anaccredited program can lead to more “Not only are we the only university in Rehabilitation Servicesemployment opportunities for students, and Alabama offering the MSPO degree,” said ■ C ertificate and Minor infor several programs at ASU, the approval of Dr. John Chad Duncan, director of theaccrediting bodies determines the legitimacy MSPO program, “we are now one of only Maternal and Child Healthof the course work those programs provide. 11 universities—and the only HBCU—in the ■ G raduate Certificate in country to offer this program.”New Programs Rehabilitation Counseling Dr. Cajetan Akujuobi, dean of the College of ■ G raduate Certificate in“The major motivation for the addition of new Science, Mathematics & Technology (CSMT),academic programs at ASU is to provide echoes Duncan’s comments. Rehabilitation Studies, Policyhigh-demand programs that will attract and Servicesstudents and that will meet the needs of both “The establishment of the Ph.D. program intraditional and nontraditional students,” said COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Smith. ■ B achelor of Science in Accelerated Psychology ■ B achelor of Science in Early Childhood Education ■ Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education ■ B achelor of Science in Collaborative Education ■ Master of Science in Applied Technology ■ M aster of Education and Education Specialist in Instructional Leadership ■ Master of Education and Education Specialist Library Education Media (online) ■ E ducation Specialist in Teacher Leadership (online) www.alasu.edu | 13

Goal 2: Academics take a closer look microbiology, the B.S. program in forensic in the surrounding community. chemistry, and the M.S. program in forensicKerra Daniel, a senior science are among the most important One such program is Camp G.I.F.T.E.D.,from Greensboro, Ala., who academic achievements in the CSMT which provides performing arts instructionis majoring in rehabilitation during Dr. Harris’s tenure,” said Akujuobi. and performance opportunities forservices, said practical, hands- “Such programs not only encourage a individuals with disabilities. This campon experiences have given culture of learning at the University, they provides special opportunities for everyoneher knowledge and purpose. also support research and public service involved. The students attending the camp“Through my experiences, I’ve projects that have helped ASU become a have the freedom to express themselvesdeveloped the capacity to be a world-class institution of higher learning.” in ways they are not always afforded inlistening ear for people when no society, and the ASU students who work atone else wants to listen and a Learning Opportunities the camp have the opportunity to expandhelping hand when no one else on their practical knowledge of performingwants to reach out.” The University has increased the number arts while learning about and appreciating of cocurricular and out-of-class activities the gifts of others.During her time at ASU, she has during Harris’s second tenure. Cocurricularworked as a Pipeline Scholar in activities are found in every college Research Grants, Service-the COHS Maternal and Child at ASU. Internships, co-ops, research Learning and Public ServiceHealth Pipeline Training Program assistantships, fieldwork courses, Projectsand completed two internships practicums and service-learning projects(one with Alabama Artificial bolster a culture of learning by providing The Office of Research and SponsoredLimb and Orthotics and one at opportunities for students to use their Programs (ORSP) provides an infrastructureMedical AIDS Outreach). knowledge and skills to achieve the global for the administration of research funded by vision of the University. grants. Through real-time data tracking of“Without these opportunities, proposal submissions, grants and contractsI don’t know that I would be “Global learning is not only a great thing acquisitions, ASU faculty, staff andwho I am. I know I wouldn’t for any university to have and encourage,” students are more capable of successfullyhave the same level of insight said Akujuobi, “but it is the best way that completing the grant-application processand knowledge that I have academics and students can survive in the and effectively planning, integrating andtoday,” said Daniel. “They have 21st century economy.” implementing funded grants.shown me my strengths andweaknesses as a student, a Student participation in workshops, “The number of proposal submissionsperson and a professional. I’ve seminars and camps also has increased increased 168 percent from FY 2010 to FYlearned about the multi-facetednature of the major I’ve chosen “O ut-of-class learning is global learningand how my strengths can because it prepares students fortranslate into a career in this 21st century workforce challenges byfield.” exposing them to real-life situations.” – Dr. Cajetan Akujuobi, dean of the CSMT during Harris’s tenure. These out-of-class 2011,“ said Dr. Linda Phaire-Washington, learning opportunities are vital to creating associate provost, ORSP. “Moreover, since relationships with local, state, national and the establishment of ORSP, approximately global organizations. 300 persons have participated in monthly grant-training workshops, faculty and According to Stewart, these programs and staff from various fields have collaborated projects are important to everyone involved. across ASU units and ASU has remained in compliance with all federal sponsors.” “Students benefit because these programs lead to professional opportunities,” she Dr. Thomas Vocino, director of the Center stated. “They receive hands-on experience for Leadership and Public Policy (CLPP), that allows them to put classroom said, “The contract and grant funds knowledge into practice.” secured by the CLPP support research and public service projects across a wide range The region also benefits because these of policy issues, including transportation, types of programs increase ASU’s presence14 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 2: Academics “Camp G.I.F.T.E.D. Research allows students Centers with disabilities the same rights ■ C enter for Leadership as others—the and Public Policy right to perform, To improve the overall sing, dance and socioeconomic status of the act. Not only citizens of Alabama and its can they be neighbors by promoting greater appreciated, they cooperation and enhancing can appreciate communication between performing arts academia and the community themselves,” said Dr. Tommie ■ Center for Nano- Stewart. Biotechnology Research To support world-classhealth care, education and criminal justice. Internet Café, meeting rooms, information research at ASU by enhancingTo the degree that ASU raises its profile as a commons, a small auditorium, student- research infrastructurehigher educational institution that conducts friendly group seating and study rooms and training faculty andhigh-quality applied research, such activity that cater to undergraduate and graduate students in the emergingenhances not only the reputation of CLPP but students. The renovations also include a areas of nanotechnology andthe entire University.”    courtyard, a wide range of exhibits and an nanobiotechnology enlarged archives and special collectionsLevi Watkins Learning Center area to house the growing collection of ■ National Center for the writings pertaining to the Civil Rights Study of Civil Rights andHarris believes the renovation and expansion Movement. African-American Culture atof the Levi Watkins Learning Center (LWLC) is Alabama State Universityat the center of ASU’s transformation. “With the transformation of our campus, To serve as a clearinghouse the Levi Watkins Learning Center is today a for information concerning“It is the crown jewel of our growth as centrally located facility that is poised to be Montgomery’s pivotal role ina University and is at the center of the the hallmark of the University,” said Franklin. the shaping and developmentUniversity’s vision for the future.” “At the center of all of the University’s of the modern Civil Rights intellectual life, creativity and life-long Movement, and to preserveWith more than 147,000 square feet of learning is the LWLC, a place that has and disseminate informationlearning and research space, the centrally- been beautifully designed to symbolize the reflective of socioeconomiclocated, newly renovated and enlarged LWLC importance of academic excellence at ASU.”     conditions, political culture andis a monument to the University’s focus on history of African-Americans inacademic excellence. MontgomeryIn a recent interview for ASU Today, Dr.Janice Franklin, dean of the LWLC, stated,“[The LWLC] is a cultural learning place thatwill accomplish our academic mission andfully engage our students, faculty and staff.”The open, flexible learning space houses anDr. Thomas Vocino (left) and Myles Mayberry are shown at a news conference announcing Alabama State University’s Center for Leadership and Public Policy’s recent study titled, “Counties in Crisis.” www.alasu.edu | 15

Goal 2: Academics “LWLC is the crown jewel of our growth as a University and is at the center of the University’s vision for the future.” – Dr. William H. Harris16 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

The Growth of Endowed Funds Goal 3: Finances approximately $80,000,000$50,888,730 3 $39,556,253 $15,953,295 $737,307Current 2008 2005 2000 1994Fiscal Responsibility“Everything at the University centers on being “Much of the Vision 2020 plan depends on “H ow do you have afinancially stable,” said Dr. Freddie Gallot, the University’s ability to get money from vision, how do youvice president for Business and Finance. financial institutions,” said Gallot, “and have dreams, how doKeeping a balanced budget and making unqualified audits and A ratings are the first you have thoughtssound investments will allow ASU to continue things financial institutions review before about where you areto grow and better serve its constituents. granting loans or tax exempt bonds.” headed in the future when there are no“Financial integrity is important to achieving Not only do the unqualified audits and A resources with whichboth present and future goals at ASU,” said credit ratings affect ASU’s ability to borrow to do it?”Gallot. money, they also affect the interest rate on those loans. – Dr. William H. HarrisWithout financial stability, the newbuildings and programs could not have “Because its finances are in good order,been constructed and developed, and the the University has been able to lock in lowUniversity could not be financially responsible interest rates. This has a great impact onto its constituents. Moreover, because the ASU’s ability to serve students, especially inUniversity practices fiscal integrity, it can the area of tuition rates.” Gallot continued.follow through on commitments to faculty,staff, students and vendors. Unqualified audits and A credit ratings and also have impacted the University’s“As a result of keeping our word,” Gallot endowment, which has increased from $2continued, “we not only build trust in current million at its inception during Harris’s firstrelationships, but we also develop a positive tenure to approximately $80 million in 2012.image that will prove key to developing future Gallot said the A ratings and unqualifiedrelationships.” audits help raise money for ASU because people like to invest in sound institutions.Under Gallot’s leadership, ASU hasmaintained an A credit rating by national “Having the highest rating certainly says torating agencies and received unqualified investors, ‘ASU is a well-managed institution,audits of the University’s finances. According has a good credit standing and the ability toto Gallot, these accomplishments are pay back bond holders.’ This positive publicessential to accomplishing the Vision 2020 image makes investors feel that giving toplan. ASU is a smart and safe thing to do with their money.” www.alasu.edu | 17

Public PerceptionUnder Harris’s leadership, ASU’s academic community has developed partnerships with the University’s constituencies at large. According to Danielle M. Kennedy, vice president for University Relations, “ASU has many programs in place to develop reciprocal“W e’ve got to be relationships with constituents.” Instruction, Public Service and involved in very Cultural Servicesbroad4teaching Programs such as Bridge Builders, SaturdayPresident Harris presents a scholarship check to Shayla Duncan during the 2011 President’s Tour. are the foundation for our success in funding the University’s endowment.” Although each of these programs is uniquely and carefully tailored to meet the specific needs of a particular group of constituents, according to Kennedy, the most comprehensive program is the President’s Tour. “First, the tour addresses the broadest audience—from high school students toand providing the Leadership Conversations and the President’s corporate and community leaders to alumni,” Tour bring ASU to the public’s attention Kennedy said. “Second, it takes news andservices of learning by providing a specific service to meet the information about ASU to constituents who instructional, public service and cultural live in communities outside the River Region.”to the people — needs of the greater ASU community. Gallot The tour makes stops all across Alabama andnot just to our said these programs are important because Georgia—from as far north as Birmingham,students here, but they allow the face-to-face interaction that as far south as Mobile, and as far east as is needed to build relationships with various Columbus, Ga. Moreover, each stop along the groups of constituents. tour includes visits to high schools, luncheonsalso those in the “The more people we touch in a positive way with corporate and community organizations and the more reasons we give them to feel and morning talk show appearances by thecommunity.” better about ASU, the more money they will President. give to the University,” said Gallot. “These – Dr. William H. Harris programs, coupled with fiscal responsibility, Kennedy said, “Traveling to these communities allows the University to18 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

establish relationships with individuals who the appropriation and report the use of funds. Goal 4: Public Perceptionmay not have the opportunity to see the “Having a professionally staffed office hastransformations on campus in person but still allowed us to shift from one level to another— Communitywant to be a part of ASU’s vision.” to move from an administrative office to a Endeavors strategic one,” Fluker continued.Socioeconomic Impact Alabama State University is committed Although the endowment remains the to making a difference outside its gates.“As CLPP has raised its profile through its backbone investment for University funding, Below is a list of some of the University’svaried activities, including contract and grant the Office of Development has established ongoing community engagementprojects, redistricting consulting with local new giving programs, which create more initiatives.governments, and polls conducted in varied flexible opportunities for donors. ■ Read & Risepolicy areas, it enhances the public perception A Founders’ Week initiative that partnersof ASU,” said Dr. Thomas Vocino, Director of “Because contributions are more important ASU’s leadership, students and facultythe Center for Leadership and Public Policy. than they ever have been and ASU has with public and private schools to“A positive public perception will, all other needs that accommodate every level of promote reading.things being equal, improve ASU’s ability to giving, we’ve established new, well-defined ■ Great Time Breakfastsincrease its level of external support.” programs to attract and retain different donor Information sessions with community levels. We want to include everyone and give religious and community groups toThe Center for Leadership and Public Policy everyone an opportunity to become involved,” engage them in the University’s Vision(CLPP) reaches out to Alabama citizens in a continued Fluker. 2020 Plan.number of venues from pro bono volunteering ■ Bridge Builders Breakfastin the aftermath of the devastating tornadoes Programs such as the 1867 Society and Sponsored by the Center for Leadershipof 2011 to conducting a math and science the Marion Society offer exciting options for and Public Policy, the Bridge BuildersOlympiad for high school students across the monetary involvement. “The 1867 Society is Breakfast series provides opportunitiesBlack Belt counties. Each of these activities, ASU’s first annual giving club,” said Fluker, to bridge social, racial and economicalong with assisting disadvantaged African- “and the Marion Society allows for planned gaps through nonpartisan presentationsAmerican farmers, helps to portray ASU in giving; it’s a program designed for donors and discussions.general and CLPP in particular as a caring to give from their wealth rather than their ■ Prom Dress Giveawayorganization that is willing to commit a portion income.” A unique program that providesof its resources to benefit the underprivileged “previously loved” dresses for hundredsin our society. Fluker said development also has initiatives of young ladies during prom season. that benefit students beyond monetary ■ ASPIREAn Effective Development Program support. “Of course, we are always happy A dropout prevention program in to be able to help our students with partnership with the Montgomery PublicZillah Fluker, associate vice president for scholarships,” said Fluker. “However, we have Schools, providing mentoring, tutoringDevelopment said, “An integral part of the also been able to develop relationships with and leadership training for middle and‘giving game’ is reassuring donors that their alumni and other partners to enable us to high school students.investments in this institution will be used broker internship, mentoring and employment ■ Common Groundwisely and will yield results.” Therefore, the opportunities. After all, the students are at the ASU student organizations partner withOffice of Development has established new heart of all that we do at this University.” a local ministry in cleanup efforts insystems and processes to efficiently record disadvantaged neighborhoods. ■ Night with the Biscuits President and Mrs. Harris A partnering initiative with the city to enjoy a moment at the support the local baseball team by 2011 President’s Gala. bringing Hornet Nation to the ballpark The event is a major ■ Homecoming Parade development initiative The annual Turkey Day Parade is held that allows the University in downtown Montgomery and draws to acknowledge its thousands of spectators each year. partners and celebrate its ■ Rally in the Alley transformative journey. The University stages its Homecoming Pep Rally in the Downtown Alley, providing support to the many restaurants and other vendors in the venue. ■ Jazz on the Grass The traditional Labor Day festival hosted by WVAS-FM draws hundreds of jazz fans to the day-long event. ■ WVAS-FM Community Outreach WVAS-FM listeners and members of the Hornet Nation provide toys for local families during the Christmas holidays. The radio station also partners with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department to provide an annual trick-or- treat alternative for local children. ■ Yuletide Giving The University family provides food for a traditional dinner to hundreds of deserving families during the Christmas holidays. www.alasu.edu | 19

President Harris has labeled the Levi Watkins Learning Center (LWLC) the “Crown Jewel” of the campus. Renovation of the library cost $22 million, adding 60,000 square feet to the building. The LWLC has digitization centers, presentation practice rooms, multimedia teaching areas, a lecture room, individual and group study rooms, and an Internet café with outdoor courtyards, in addition to the learning and research areas that already existed within the library.The Life Science Building was constructed ata cost of $26.7 million. It houses the College ofScience, Math and Technology and containsmore than $5 million in equipment forfaculty and students to conductcutting-edge research in areassuch as nanobiotechnology.20 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

5 Goal 5: Campus “I think that our The Physical Campus students ought to have facilities equal Eric Thornton, interim vice president for floors, ceilings and shower areas are being to the facilities that Buildings and Grounds, calls the campus renovated in two other dormitories. any other students transformation “a master plan with vision.” have anywhere else, Campus expansion includes bringing Hall not just in our state, Bond issues financed much of the Street into the campus and re-naming it but in our country.” construction of buildings and infrastructure Harris Way — a development that provides improvements. The $26.7 million Life Science to the eastern section of the campus and – Dr. William H. Harris Building contains more than $5 million in to the New ASU Stadium, currently under equipment for faculty and student research. construction. The Ralph D. Abernathy Building, built at a cost $34 million, houses the College of The $80 million invested in athletic facilities Education, a 545-seat auditorium and the has been a “game changer” according Great Hall of Teachers memorial. to University officials, helping to attract talented athletes throughout the ASU athletic The new John Garrick Hardy Student program. Center is student-focused with SGA offices overlooking the campus, four restaurants, The Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex a movie theatre, bookstore and a one-stop has brought baseball back to campus for shop for student services—advising, financial the first time in 15 years. Softball games are aid, records and enrollment activities. The being played in the new Barbara Williams Levi Watkins Learning Center contains state- Softball Complex, and the Houston Markham of-the-art technology and media for student Jr. Football Complex provides a recruiting- and faculty study and research. friendly home for athletic administrative offices, as well as training facilities for The College of Business Administration players. will move to 32 Commerce Street in the downtown Montgomery business district “We understand the importance of athletics after the 60,000-square-foot, five-floor to this University, and we knew that we would building is renovated. reap the benefits from our investment,” said Harris. “Having the new facilities has already Two new co-ed residence halls have been had a positive effect on recruitment, as built, and three women’s dormitories have well as our fan base, partners and potential been totally renovated. Recreation areas, partners.” The College of Business Administration will be moving to 32 Commerce Street in the downtown Montgomery business district after the 60,000-square-foot, five-floor building is renovated. The $34 million Ralph David Abernathy Building houses the College of Education. The state-of-the-art facility includes simulated classrooms, research and development laboratories, a 545- seat auditorium and a “Great Hall of Teachers” memorial. www.alasu.edu | 21

Two new residence halls opened in the fall of 2011. The $15 million, 160,000-square-foot facility has suite-style rooms, computer labs, group study rooms, common areas and laundry rooms.

“T he beauty of the campus and the new buildings makes it easy to tell the ASU story to prospective students and their parents.” – C herise Peters, associate provost and vice president for Enrollment ManagementThe new John Garrick Hardy Student Center opened this year. Offering one-stop shopping for student services, thecenter is the location of financial aid, advising, records and enrollment activities. The $25 million, 80,000-square-footfacility houses a movie theatre, bookstore, four restaurants, game room, ballroom and several lounge areas.

Goal 1: Organization The new Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex was built at a cost of $3.9 million. The construction allowed the University to bring baseball to campus for the first time in 15 years. The baseball complex also features an intramural soccer/football field, a press box, bathrooms, dugouts, a concession stand, parking, lighting and seating. The $1.6 million Barbara Williams Softball Complex is an NCAA regulation-sized field with seating for 200, of which 75 are premium. The complex also features concessions, a press box and batting cages. Located on the recently renamed Harris Way (formerly Hall Street), the New ASU Stadium has high visibility from Interstate 85. The multipurpose complex will have 26,500 seats, including club level and suite seating and a restaurant that will be accessible year-round. The facility can also be used to host sporting events other than football, as well as concerts and other productions.24 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 5: Campus“Alabama State University is a major part of the engine that drivesthe local and state economy. There is no doubt that we have a bigvision, but we also have an even bigger impact.” – Dr. William H. Harris The new Houston Markham Jr. Football Complex is a 33,165-square-foot facility which cost $7 million, an undertaking accomplished completely without the aid of state tax monies. The state-of-the-art facility boasts its own 5,000-square- foot weight room, 650-square-foot multipurpose area, 1,575-square-foot team room, 1,870-square-foot locker room, 1,512-square-foot training room and a 1,110-square-foot academic lab. Unique architectural features include a 1,290-square-foot, two-story atrium, a balcony overlooking the football practice field, SMART Boards in the team room and energy-saving devices. www.alasu.edu | 25

6Strengthening Relationships“I think of ASU’s The University’s presence in the River Region “We believe ASU is an extremely important relationship with and in the state of Alabama is evidenced part of Montgomery’s community,” Harris the community as a through its partnership-based programs and continued, “and we want to work much symbiotic affiliation; economic impact. closer with the Chamber and business it has a regenerative community on projects that will involve effect on both “At the heart of the University’s response to us as a partner with the entire tri-county sides.” the broader community is the fact that ASU area, helping all of us realize our immense is not just located in the city, we are part of untapped positive potential.” – Dr. William H. Harris the city. We embrace and we are embraced,” said Harris. Montgomery Mayor Todd StrangeTop photo: President William H. Harris, emphasizes the importance of the growingMontgomery Mayor Todd Strange and Community Engagement partnerships that have been establishedAlabama Governor Robert Bentley at a between ASU and the city, local businesses2011 Bridge Builders Breakfast. Community involvement is crucial to the well- and local leaders. being of the University. “ASU means so much to this community,” “Community involvement represents a Strange said. “I am delighted that ASU, along symbiotic relationship that regenerates both with the city, the county and our legislative the city and the University,” said Harris. “One delegation, is forging these relationships. As of the single most important things that I you well know, everything we do is about have noticed during this term as president partnerships. If we are partnering, we can of Alabama State University is the intense have nothing but the best years ahead.” relationship between the University and the city—I mean the city both corporately and Larry Puckett, a prominent River Region the city with its people.”26 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 6: Relationships Advancing ASU’s partnerships with outside corporate and government entities has resulted in programs that benefit all citizens in the area, such as the annual HBCU Conference. Not only does the conference bring national and international speakers to the Montgomery area, it also provides attendees the opportunities to learn about business development, entrepreneurship, grants, contracting and fellowships.The ASPIRE program is a dropout prevention initiative that allows the “The conference is Interpretive CenterUniversity to partner with the Montgomery Public Schools by providing geared not just for Announcementafter-school mentoring and homework assistance. the higher education community,” said ASU is strengthening itsbusinessman and head of the Chamber’s economic development Deborah Scott Thomas, relationships on a national scaleactivities, agreed that this is a thrilling time. an ASU alumna and through partnership opportunities president of Data with organizations such as the“It’s so exciting to be a part of what is going on in Montgomery,” Solutions & Technology National Parks Service, whichhe said. “A vital part of that (transformation) is Alabama State and Incorporated, “but also announced on Jan. 11, 2011, thatall that they’re doing on the campus. This is a true example of for government officials, the University has been selectedteamwork. We all come together and make where we all live and small businesses, as the site for the Montgomerywork a better place for our families.” corporations, and Interpretive Center. ASU’s site federal, state and local will be the third center for theThe University’s emerging political partnerships also are agencies to learn how to Selma-to-Montgomery Nationalexemplified by the number of visits to ASU by members of work with the different Historic Trail.Alabama’s congressional delegation. Legislative visitors have constituents to improveincluded Sen. Jeff Sessions, Rep. Mike Rogers and Rep. Terry economic developmentSewell. in regions nationwide by using HBCU resources.” ASU also has developed a relationship with the greater Montgomery community by providing opportunities for cultural experiences. The National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African-American Culture supports programs and activities that honor the role of Alabama State University, Montgomery and the state of Alabama in the struggle for African-Americans’ civil rights and celebrate African-American culture. According to Program Chair Dr. Dorothy Autrey, “The Center has promoted cooperation between academia and the community by hosting programs and activities which draw the interest and support of the Montgomery community.” American singer, actor and social activist, Harry Belafonte (center), is shown with Dr. John F. Knight Jr., and Alabama Rep. Alvin Holmes during a 2011 event. Belafonte is one of a number of celebrities, including comedian Steve Harvey, who have visited the campus during the past four years. www.alasu.edu | 27

Goal 6: Relationships 1% 1% 10,500 4% 3% Permanent Jobs 9% Created by ASU14% ■ K nowledge-based & Warehousing Services 68% Information, Finance ■ Retail Trade & Insurance, Real Estate, Professional ■ Construction Services, Administrative, Educational Services, ■ V isitor Industry Health & Social Services, Accommodation Arts, Entertainment & Food Services sector & Recreation, Other Services ■ G overnment & Other Agriculture & Forestry, ■ Wholesale Trade & Mining, Transportation Services Utilities, Company Wholesale Trade, Management, Transportation Government & Other ■ Manufacturing Source: The Washington Economics Group (WEG).Lectures, conferences, book discussions, oral histories, art exhibits, school students make the connection that a college education isresearch and publications are among the Center’s programs and possible for them. Just being on the ASU campus and interactingactivities, which provide an irreplaceable cultural and social impact with their ASU student mentors during the after-school tutoringon the community. and mentoring activities is powerful because they learn life skills from college students they can relate to, see that success isThe University’s partnerships also have allowed ASU to participate possible and are encouraged to take the steps needed that willin community initiatives such as ASPIRE (Amazing Students give them real options in life.”Putting In Resilient Effort), a dropout prevention program headedby Cynthia Handy. The program, conducted in collaboration Economic Impactwith ASU and the Montgomery Public Schools (MPS), partnerswith local middle and junior high schools to provide after-school “We know that our impact on Montgomery and the River Regiontutoring and mentoring for at-risk students. ASU provides is big,” said Elton N. Dean Sr., chairman of the ASU Board oftransportation to the University from the various schools. Trustees and chairman of the Montgomery County Commission. “Alabama State University is a driving force in the local economic“This program is vitally important for these young people,” said engine, and we expect our momentum to increase as theHandy, “not just the junior high and middle school students who University’s transformation continues to evolve.”receive tutoring and mentorship, but also the ASU students whoprovide those services. Through this program, ASU’s presence in Randy George, president of the Chamber, echoed Dean’s remarks.the community is felt in a real and meaningful way.” “ASU has been a great partner with the Chamber and plays a valuable role in Montgomery’s economic future.”Barbara Thompson, MPS superintendent, feels that the system’slong and rewarding partnership with the University has grown and A recent study of the University’s economic impact on the Riverexpanded under Harris’s leadership. She names the ASU ASPIRE Region and state of Alabama revealed that ASU’s economic impactprogram as a vital component of that partnership. approached $1 billion.“Historically, ASU has been known as a leader in teacher “The study proves that we do a lot more than educate 5 or 6,000education, and the talented teachers that MPS receives are students on a daily basis,” said Harris. “Those students, along withimportant to us,” Thompson said, but she stated that the ASU ASU faculty and staff, live here, eat here, shop in the stores here,programs for MPS students are equally important to the school buy property here and pay rent here.”district. However, it’s important to speak about the study in context. In“Dr. Harris understands that public education must create students 2008, when Harris first decided to come back to ASU, the state ofthat are able to compete on a global level and equips them with Alabama began to face major fiscal problems.the academic, technical, organizational and critical thinking skillsnecessary to be successful when they graduate from high school,” “We have experienced a decline of approximately $15 million inThompson said. “Through the ASU ASPIRE program, our middle state funding since 2008. It would be a travesty if I were to suggest that we haven’t suffered because of that,” said Harris.28 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

“T he University is not just GGoaola6l:2C: oAncsatditeumenicts something that sits here; it’s a part of the city. It has to embrace and be embraced by the people.” – Dr. William H. HarrisThe Nov. 16, 2011, Block Party starts the New ASU Stadium Countdown Clock. Pictured from left: Stacy Danley, athletics director; Larry Puckett,Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce; Dr. Alfred S. Smith, interim provost/vice president of Academic Affairs; Dr. John F. Knight Jr., executive vicepresident/Chief Operating Officer; President Harris; Todd Strange, Montgomery Mayor; Locy Baker, ASU Board of Trustees member; and Elton N. DeanSr., chairman, ASU Board of Trustees and Montgomery County Commission. $901 million The Annual Economic Impact of ASU Activities in AlabamaHowever, during these difficult Employment Ongoing University Student Living Additional Alumni Total Recurringeconomic times, in addition to (Jobs) Activities Expenditures Earning Power Impactpumping revenue into the local andstate economy, ASU also provides Labor Income 3,931 589 5,981 10,501more than 10,500 jobs to River $128 $15Region residents. $ Million $173 $33 $168 $311Harris said, “We determined that Gross $35 $8 $331 $537we would do everything we could Domesticto ensure that no one lost a job Product $341 $53 $75 $118because of the economic situation.” $ Million $507 $901Harris emphasized that AlabamaState University is a major part of the State &engine that drives the local and state Local Fiscaleconomy. Revenues“There is no doubt that we have a $ Millionbig vision, but (the study provesthat) we also have an even bigger Economicimpact.” Impact $ Million Notes: 1Gross Domestic Product (GDP): Labor Income ($311 Million) + Proprietor, other Property Type Income and Indirect Business Taxes ($226 Million) = $537 Million. 2Economic Impact: GDP ($537 Million) + Costs of all Inputs ($364 Million) = $901 Million. Source: The Washington Economics Group (WEG). www.alasu.edu | 29

Goal 1: OrganizationDr. Harris speaks with students in the One-Stop Shop for StudentsS7tudentnew John Garrick Hardy Student Center. The new John Garrick Hardy Student Center is designed to be a one-stop shop for recreationPrograms and important student business. Dr. William P.& Services Hytche Jr., associate provost and vice president for Student Affairs, said with both recreational amenities and student services offices, the new 81,000-square-foot facility is designed to make campus life more fun and convenient. “Providing the social amenities in the same location as the student services, such as counseling and enrollment services, allows the students to access whatever services they want while maintaining their privacy,” he said. Another important aspect of the new facility is that it brings leisure and entertainment to the students. Without ever leaving campus or having to walk to another building, students can eat at several restaurants in the food court, catch a movie in the theater, surf the Web in the cyber café, shop for course30 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 7: Student Programs & Servicesmaterials and Hornet gear in the bookstore, or simply relax in one of the manylounges.“We believe students choose Alabama State for the professors, academics andathletics. Those areas are important recruiting tools,” said Hytche. “The new studentservices building is a major retention tool — involving the students on campus andproviding activities they suggest and plan.” Enrollment Management The Student Center also houses all of the student services offices. The new Division of Enrollment Management (DEM) plays an important role in ensuring that students can conduct all important student business transactions under one roof. The DEM was created to enhance student services, improve student retention and increase student enrollment. Improving the student experience by streamlining the enrollment process was the first priority for Cherise Peters, the new associate provost and vice president for Enrollment Management. Peters said at the beginning of spring 2012, most of the enrollment process was paper-driven – now, the process is completed almost entirely online, which has helped to increase enrollment significantly for fall 2012. Enrollment Management also has enhanced the student experience by designing an office in the Student Center where enrollment specialists will be available to help students with financial aid, academic advising, admissions and records questions. By having these blended services available in one place, students receive assistance and guidance without leaving the office. “The students are priority No. 1,” said Peters. “Our goal is to make sure that our students have a positive ‘Hornet Nation’ experience. Providing all of their relevant services and entertainment opportunities in one location goes a long way toward fulfilling that goal.” Continued to page 34 www.alasu.edu | 31

Goal 1: Organization “We believe students choose Alabama State for the professors, academics and athletics. Those areas are important recruiting tools.” – D r. William P. Hytche Jr. associate provost and vice president for Student Affairs32 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 2: AcademicsSWAC Championship Teams■ F ootball – 2010 Eastern Division Champs■ W omen's Cross Country – 2008, 2011 SWAC Champs■ M en's Cross Country – 2008 SWAC Champs■ W omen's Indoor Track – 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 SWAC Champs■ M en’s Indoor Track – 2010 SWAC Champs■ W omen's Outdoor Track – 2010, 2011, 2012 SWAC Champs■ M en's Basketball – 2008 SWAC regular season champs; 2009 SWAC regular season and SWAC Tournament Champs; 2011 SWAC Tournament Champs■ W omen's Golf – 2011 SWAC Champs■ M en’s Golf – 2012 SWAC Champs www.alasu.edu | 33

Goal 7: Student Programs & ServicesContinued from page 31A third initiative in Enrollment Management is the retention of on campus.current students and monitoring their academic progress. Theretention goal for this year’s entering class is 66 percent. In “We’re absolutely convinced that stadium is going to be theaddition, a new task force will focus on identifying and articulating biggest recruiter we’ve ever had,” said Harris.goals for retaining second-year students. He believes the stadium will create a stronger sense of belongingResearch completed in the division will be compiled in dashboards at ASU because it will bring people into the University and itsthat will provide information to the senior leadership as they make community. “That’s why it’s built with the significant amenities thatdecisions about enrollment opportunities. it has,” said Harris.Peters sums up the ASU experience this way: “With our campus The stadium is envisioned to be more than just a place that willfacilities, academic programs and customer service culture, ASU is hold five to seven football games a year; the hope is it will be aan inviting place to be.” facility that will attract other community events.Intercollegiate Athletics “The new facility is so attractive that men and women will want to have their wedding receptions there,” said Harris. “There will beThe University has achieved good standing with the NCAA; a restaurant — and not just a restaurant for football weekends;earned athletic division and conference championships in football, people who want to have quality lunches can eat there right onbasketball, track and field, and golf; and brought the football ASU’s campus.”tradition back home with the construction of the New ASU Stadium34 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

The Center for Perpetual Training years, 308 professional development courses 8A World-Goal 8: World Class | World Readyand Protocol have been offered with 2,827 participants attending, totaling 9,511 training hours. ReadyAn important factor in ASU’s becoming a Institutionworld-class institution of higher learning A University-Wide ERP Systemis ensuring that each operating unit (both “The foundation isacademic and administrative) establishes According to Terence Thomas, president of in place, but theguidelines and core values that lead to the Diversified Technology in Atlanta and the vision has to beContinuous Improvement of Daily Operations project manager for ASU’s new Enterprise maintained, and(CIDO) said Kim Anderson, director of the Resource Planning (ERP) network, unifying I don’t mean myCenter for Perpetual Training and Protocol the University’s information systems is a vital vision. There has(CPTP). step in providing world-class services. to be a vision that encompasses“Our goal is to transform our culture to a “Having information in one database reduces what has beendesired standard for exceptional customer the amount of data required, improves the accomplished andservice,” Anderson said. data integrity and offers ease of use for builds upon it. ” students, faculty and staff.”The CPTP was created to ensure thatadministration, faculty and staff have the The massive project implemented the studentresources needed to create and implement services modules first, which included allCIDOs for their departments, offices, colleges aspects of student services for currentand schools. students, student recruitment for future students and student records for current andAnderson points to the twin missions of the past students.newly created CPTP. “We focus on trainingto enhance team and individual effectiveness “The student services module is the biggestand on process to document procedures and most important element of the system,”and to assess work flow and improve said Thomas. “Students can add and dropefficiencies.” classes, pay tuition and complete their housing online, which reduces stress for allThe Center has facilitated the development of departments.”more than 30 standard operating proceduresand protocols. In addition, more than 30 During the 2012 spring semester, othercourses in supervision and leadership, modules in the project were put in place.customer service, and computer and The business module includes purchasing,compliance training have been offered to accounts payable and all nonstudentfaculty and staff to improve their proficiency revenue, and the e-procurement moduleand productivity. allows authorized online purchases. Asset management keeps track of the University’sThe Trustees, executive team and property and equipment, and the humanadministrative council have participated capital management module keeps allin the leadership and customer service employee information in one place.initiatives and training. During the past two – Dr. William H. Harris Jasher Cox, CPTP training specialist, works with ASU resident assistants during a workshop titled “Examining the 5 Standards of Exceptional Customer Service.” www.alasu.edu | 35

Goal 1: Organization O Chère36 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Mere! T he first line of our alma mater –Harris’s Vision Alabama State, O Mother Dear – is easilyof the Global translated into a foreign language. InClassroom: Spanish, it’s “Del Estado de Alabama, ohNot Lost In querida madre.” In Chinese, it’s “阿拉巴马州Translation 啊，亲爱的妈妈.”By Mae Donnell Good thing the words to the song have global meaning, because these days ASU Former students Chris Harris (‘11) and Ashley Thomas (‘11) calabroni, which is Italian for hornets, are stand on the Great Wall with current student Houston Thompson buzzing all over the world. Meanwhile, a during their March 2011 visit to China. The trio was part of a growing number of international étudiants group that traveled to Beijing as part of study-tour sponsored by (students) are learning how nice it is to call the College of Business Administration (COBA) and funded by a Harris Way home. two-year Business and International Education (BIE) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. As a result of the surge in foreign study and foreign students, the faculty is changing as well. Under the leadership of Dr. Harris, who helped set the wheels of worldwide programming, exchanges and scholarship in motion, an impressive number of foreign- born instructors, many with world-class academic credentials, have joined the staff at ASU. With them come fresh ideas that add an international flavor to the rapidly expanding campus. Let’s take a look at the Harris-led focus on world studies and how it has impacted not only current students and faculty, but also the recruitment of top academic talent to campus. The summer of 2012 found seven current students and two faculty members studying at the University of Stirling in Scotland. Another group of six, plus two faculty members, took classes at the University of Ulsan in South Korea, while another ASU contingent, made up of Ph.D. student Stacie Fairley and biology professor Dr. Shree Singh, traveled to Grenoble, France, to participate in a summer collaborative research exchange program. Summer abroad programs are part of the University’s Vision 2020 Transformation Plan, which calls for ASU to become a world-class institution by branching out into the world’s academic and business communities. www.alasu.edu | 37

Franka Schauss, a senior take a closer lookmajoring in mathematics, isa long way from her native “These programs expose our trade specialists and delegates fromPottsdam, Germany, but she students to different methods of as far away as Turkmenistan.said, “I’ve found a home at teaching and learning styles,” saidASU.” Dr. Sharron Herron-Williams, interim “Starting this year, each student associate provost and vice president who enters the College of BusinessShe came to the University on of Academic Affairs. “They also Administration will either have aa full athletic scholarship and give our students the opportunity minor in international business orloves being a Lady Hornet. to interact with their peers in entrepreneurship,” says the dean of different majors, so they will develop the college, Dr. Le-Quita Booth. “We“My mom didn’t want me professional, social and cultural think it is important to expose ourto come so far away,” said networks.” students to all of the internationalSchauss, “but my dad basically activities we can.”said if that’s what you want to Julian Bolden, a computer sciencedo, go for it.” major from Albany, Ga., is currently The seminar, whose launch studying at the Hunan University in was Harris’s idea, was held asBesides the soccer team, Changsha, China. As an ASU senior, part of ASU’s annual BusinessSchauss also is a member Bolden was one of only five U.S. Empowerment series. Attendanceof the International Student has continued to grow since itsOrganization and the ASU students chosen to receive a full, inception.concert band. one-year scholarship from the Chinese government. Last summer, 14 students tookWhile she is happy in her advantage of a prestigious two-yearnew setting, Schauss said her “I will miss my family and grant from the U.S. Departmentbiggest challenges have been friends,” Bolden said before he of Education to spend nine dayslearning how to “open up to studying business and culture inpeople and getting used to the left. “But I will return to the Beijing, China.lingo.” United States fluent in two languages.” Dr. Kimal Hingorani, associateDespite the challenges, Schauss professor of computer informationis glad that she came to the In April 2012, ASU hosted an systems, helped chaperone theUnited States. “It’s good for open seminar for students, adventure, which included a trekinternational students to faculty and small businesses across the Great Wall of China.experience other cultures,” that included internationalSchauss said.

take a closer look Hailing from the Caribbean island of St. Kitts, ASU alumna, Praseetha Subbarayan of India, Seyhan Sheneice Rawlins said, “My Boyoglu-Barnum of Turkey and Murtada Taha biggest adjustment was dealing of Sudan were the first ASU students to be with the weather. St. Kitts is awarded Ph.D. degrees in microbiology. rarely below 60 degrees.” Rawlins was recruited by two“Study tours, such as this one, give “It is important for us to develop Alabama State Universityour students a global classroom these relationships with international graduates, one of whom is herexperience,” Hingorani said. universities because our students cousin. will broaden their experiences and In May 2011, she graduatedInternational students made history ultimately be much more employable summa cum laude with a B.S.on campus just last year. Praseetha because they have received a global in accounting, becoming theSubbarayan of India, Seyhan Boyoglu- perspective.” second ASU graduate in herBarnum of Turkey and Murtada Taha of family.Sudan were the first ASU students to be Harris says he “I would encourage more friendsawarded Ph.D. degrees in microbiology. hopes his efforts and family to attend ASU. I to open up ASU had always heard good thingsUnder Harris, ASU is spreading its to the world will about it, and I met so manyknowledge around the world. In continue to grow nice people with ‘Southern2010, microbiology doctoral student and develop hospitality’ that helped me. WithAbebayehu Yilma traveled to his and that the ASUnative Ethiopia to conduct a series of family will continue all the new stuff being builtseminars to share his findings related to actively pursue on campus, I am sureto new approaches to fighting bacterial international studies for its ASU will be one ofinfection. students and faculty. the top schools in the nearAcademics and research are not As that occurs, more and future,” saidthe sole focus of the push for more more people around the globe, Rawlins.international participation. Cultural even those who speak Afrikaans,exchanges also are part of Harris’s likely will come to understand and www.alasu.edu | 39vision. appreciate that “Goeie Ole ‘Bama staat Gees” (Good Ole ‘Bama StateCurrently, ASU is negotiating an Spirit) in the years ahead.exchange program with the Universityof Zadar in Croatia. Dr. Thomas Vocino,director of ASU’s Center for Leadershipand Public Policy, visited the foreigncampus late last year.

D­ r. Alain Bopda Waffo is a take a closer lookworld-traveler who has now madeMontgomery and Alabama StateUniversity his home.“I love this city,” said Dr. AlainBopda Waffo, Associate Professorof Biology, “It’s the best place I’velived so far.”Waffo, who is originally fromthe Republic of Cameroon inwest central Africa, studied inCameroon, France and Germany,where he was the last student(and first African student) tostudy under Dr. Manfred Eigen, abiophysical chemist who won the1967 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Healso worked as a post-doctoralresearcher and research associateat major universities in NewJersey, Texas and Alabama beforejoining the ASU faculty in 2010.“Choosing to come to ASUwas an easy decision,” saidWaffo. “The new facilities anddiverse programs in the CSMTprovided me the equipmentand creative freedom to workon innovative projects.” Waffo’sgroundbreaking researchfocuses on using RNA-coliphagedisplay to develop advances inmedication, vaccinations andnanobiotechnology. Top: ASU students stretch silk to make blankets during their tour at a silk factory in Beijing. Above: President Harris presents an honorary plaque to Harish Bakru of Sindhu College during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between India and ASU. Facing page: Hundreds gathered in the Dunn-Oliver Acadome to hear South African freedom fighter Winnie Mandela speak about the global struggle for civil rights during the University’s 2010 Community Convocation.40 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

“W e think it is important to expose our students to all of the international activities we can.” – Dr. William H. Harris www.alasu.edu | 41

1Goal 1: OrganizationASU Tradition & Legacy“Y ears from now, when there are young folks on this campus who want to be physicians ormusicians, and there’s a place here that’s vibrant and exciting and comfortable, I hope mylegacy will simply be, ‘Bill Harris contributed to this place and this space.’” 3 – Dr. William H. Harris 242 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

4 Goal 2: Academics 5 1. Harris reads to elementary students as part of the annual Read & Rise program, a partnering initiative with Montgomery Public Schools. 2. Harris waves to graduates following a commencement ceremony. 3. The late Thelma M. Glass, longtime ASU professor and civil rights icon, is shown just prior to her receiving ASU’s Black and Gold Standard Award in 2011. The award is one of three given during the Founders’ Day Convocation to honor ASU alumni. 4. Harris greets the crowd at ASU’s annual Turkey Day Classic Parade, one of the many community engagement activities sponsored by the University. 85. Harris, an avid golfer, hosts the annual President’s Golf Tournament, which benefits the Trust for Educational Excellence. 6. Harris with the Hornet mascot during Turkey Day festivities. 6 www.alasu.edu | 43

Goal 1: OrganizationAn aerial view of ASU’sgrowing campus onOctober 4, 2011. Alabama State University Board of Trustees Robert Bentley Elton N. Dean Sr. Oscar Crawley Governor Chair Vice Chair Alfreda Green Taylor H. Hodge Jr. Bobby M. Junkins Lawrence J. Lemak44 | Vision. Leadership. Transformation.

Goal 2: AcademicsLocy Baker Buford Crutcher Thomas H. Figures 2008-2012 President’s ReportKathy Sawyer Marvin Wiggins Herbert Young Managing Editor Danielle M. Kennedy University Editor Lois G. Russell Project Manager Holly Dotson Writers Arnelle Adcock May Donnell Holly Dotson Tina Joly Consulting Editors Hazel Scott Dana Vandiver Katrina Williams Graphic Designer Haley Cumbie Photographers David Campbell Te’Darius Lewis (Student Photographer) www.alasu.edu | 45

P.O. Box 271 Montgomery, AL 36101The beautifully landscaped outdoor concourse is the first major step toward making Alabama State University a pedestrian-friendly campus.