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AAMU and Alabama State Students to Pitch Banking Innovations at Regions Field

 Alabama A&M University’s Butch the Bulldog and Alabama State University’s Hornet mascot share a moment during the 2025 Magic City Classic in Birmingham. The annual rivalry extends beyond the football field as students from both universities prepare to compete in Regions Bank’s second annual Bank of Ideas Challenge on Oct. 26.
October 24, 2026

Alabama A&M Students Take on Regions Bank Challenge Ahead of Magic City Classic

Alabama A&M University students will put their creativity, business knowledge and problem-solving skills to the test as Regions Bank hosts its second annual Bank of Ideas Challenge ahead of the 85th Magic City Classic in Birmingham.

The competition brings together 36 students representing 11 teams from Alabama A&M and Alabama State University to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges in the banking industry.

The challenge will culminate Monday, Oct. 26, at Regions Field in Birmingham, where two finalist teams from each university will present their ideas to Regions Bank leaders. Each member of the final round competition winning team will receive a $750 Regions Bank Visa gift card and additional recognition.

Participating students will focus on three areas: the future of young adult banking, financial technology innovation and student-athlete financial success. Teams will be evaluated on creativity, impact, feasibility and presentation effectiveness.

“The best ideas in banking start with understanding what customers need and how those needs are changing,” said John Jordan, head of consumer banking for Regions Bank. “The Bank of Ideas Challenge allows us to hear directly from the next generation of customers while giving students a meaningful opportunity to develop ideas around financial wellness, technology and the customer experience.”

 Regions Bank will bring together students from Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University for its second annual Bank of Ideas Challenge on Oct. 26 at Regions Field in Birmingham. The competition will showcase student-led innovations in banking ahead of the 85th Magic City Classic.

Regions Bank will bring together students from Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University for its second annual Bank of Ideas Challenge on Oct. 26 at Regions Field in Birmingham. The competition will showcase student-led innovations in banking ahead of the 85th Magic City Classic.

The competition adds an academic and professional development component to Magic City Classic Week, bringing students from the rival universities together for collaboration and innovation before the Bulldogs and Hornets meet Saturday, Oct. 31, at Legion Field.

The winning team will be recognized during Magic City Classic events.

“Our relationships with Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University are built on years of collaboration, investment and shared commitment to student success,” said Leroy Abrahams, head of community and market engagement for Regions Bank. “The Bank of Ideas Challenge expands that work in a meaningful way by connecting students with real-world business opportunities, encouraging innovation and helping prepare the next generation of leaders.”

Regions Bank serves as the official bank of the Magic City Classic and the official sponsor of Magic City Classic volunteers. Its longstanding relationships with both universities include financial wellness initiatives, student outreach and career development opportunities.

The Bank of Ideas Challenge provides AAMU students an opportunity to gain real-world business experience, engage with banking industry leaders and showcase their talents on a platform that extends the Magic City Classic rivalry beyond the football field.

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