AAMU Welcomes Class of 2028 to The Hill

For the second year in a row, Alabama A&M University is set to shatter its first-time student enrollment record. Over 2,000 first-time students filed into the Event Center Saturday to celebrate Freshman Convocation and Torch Lighting. The University welcomed the Class of 2028 comprised of students hailing from 40 states and 6 foreign countries.

Last year, AAMU reported an enrollment of 6,633 students – the largest in its history. This fall, an estimated 7,000 students are expected to enroll by the close of registration.   

Fear not!

Torch Lighting Convocation speaker Ashley Lawhorn shared her story of finding purpose and overcoming challenges during her time as an AAMU student. Lawhorn, a native of Detroit, says a prophetic message received at a church service at eleven years old sparked her pursuit of a career in fashion. Shortly after the spiritual look into her future, she began sketching and designing.

The owner of Kuhrizmuh Boutique says the Torch Lighting event marked her first speaking engagement, asking students if it was a safe space to share the truth about overcoming. “In 2019, I lost my voice,” she said. “I could not speak for nine months. So, to stand here to welcome this amazing beautiful class is a testimony in itself.”

Through her personal journey, she encouraged students to remove fear to help eliminate delays to their success.  

“My college experience was not common,” said Lawhorn. “You may assume I am a cautionary tale or you may be wondering why I’m standing here. I’m standing before you because I’m not just a cautionary tale. I’m a success story. I know what it feels like to fail and fall. I’m standing here so that you understand the importance of not delaying your success.”

Watch 2024 Torch Lighting