51AV

Huntsville, Ala. ---- 51AV A&M University is planning a Retirement Celebration in honor of Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr., its 11th president, on Saturday, December 11, 2021, in the T.M. Elmore Building at 6 p.m. The event theme is “Celebrating an Era of Transformative Leadership.” Noted comedian and Alabamian Rickey Smiley will serve as master of ceremonies.

Dr. Hugine began his tenure as president of AAMU in July 2009 after more than three decades of progressive service, including the presidency, at South Carolina State University, his alma mater. The administrator and mathematician earned the Ph.D. in higher education/institutional research from Michigan State University.

Hugine’s numerous accomplishments at AAMU can be summarized in ten broad categories: 1) Strategic Plan, Accreditations and New Degree Programs; 2) University Distinctions and Rankings; 3) Recruitment and Enrollment; 4) Key Research and Programs; 5) Investment in Human Capital; 6) Community Engagement and Public Service; 7) Strengthened Financial Management; 8) Capital Infrastructure Improvement; 9) Expanded Giving Participation; and 10) Economic Influence and Impact.

Within the first month of his presidency at AAMU, Hugine set out to address the University’s probationary status with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). By December 2009, AAMU was removed from SACSCOC sanction. A plan was developed to deal with budgetary issues; reorganize major academic units; increase high-level partnerships; expand marketing efforts; and build community engagement.

In 2021 alone, AAMU boasts a number of construction projects, including an Event Center, Welcome Center, and memorial to AAMU founder William Hooper Councill. A 600-bed residence hall opened in 2018. Moreover, throughout his 12-year tenure, the University strategically addressed deferred maintenance concerns.

The multi-faceted aspects of the December 11 celebration are being coordinated by AAMU Trustee Chris Robinson, with assistance from Dr. Malinda Swoope, a member of President Hugine’s Cabinet, and a committee. Additional information about the retirement celebration will be available at www.aamu.edu/retirementcelebration.

by Jerome Saintjones