AAMU Welcomes More Than 2,100 Freshmen from 40 States, Five Countries

The glow of more than 2,000 candles lit up Alabama A&M University’s Event Center Saturday evening as the institution formally welcomed the Class of 2029 during the Annual Freshman Torch Lighting Ceremony.

This year’s convocation carried special significance as AAMU continues celebrating its 150th Anniversary, honoring a tradition that began with founder William Hooper Councill. For the first time in University history, the freshman class donned both official school colors – maroon and white – symbolizing unity and Bulldog pride.

President Daniel K. Wims highlighted the exceptional makeup of the incoming class, noting a preliminary registration of 2,157 first-time freshmen representing 40 states and five countries. The Class of 2029 is 58 percent female, 42 percent male, and includes five sets of twins.

Delivering the keynote address was distinguished alumnus Don Calloway, a nationally recognized attorney, strategic advisor, political analyst, and advocate for civic engagement. Calloway gave a passionate and heartfelt speech that blended inspiration with history, reminding students that their college journey begins with an inheritance of resilience and service.

“Tonight, you join a family whose history is steeped in resilience, vision, and excellence,” said Calloway. “You are stepping into a legacy that expects great things from you – and will give you the tools to achieve them. As a little boy and slave for a Judge right here in Huntsville, Alabama, Councill promised God that if he were allowed to become a man, he would make conditions more favorable for other little boys and girls. That prayer remains our original mandate: ‘Service is Sovereignty,’ that is part of our, now your, legacy. There are but three takeaways: understand that today you inherit the greatest service academy ever conceived in the history of the planet; understand very clearly that our expectation of you is greatness, delivered through constant, consistent, high-quality service to all mankind; and finally, understand that when you light that torch, you are part of something far greater than yourself.”

The event also featured remarks from Alabama State Senator Arthur Orr, who reminded students they are blessed to be at Alabama A&M and should pass those blessings on to others. He urged them to finish what they start, sharing the story of a Kenyan marathon runner who pressed forward despite injury. “When asked why he continued when the race had long ended, he said, ‘My country did not send me 5,000 miles to start the race. My country sent me 5,000 miles to finish the race,’” said Orr. “I hope to see every member of the Class of 2029 graduate together in four years.”

Calloway closed with a charge about his alma mater's rich legacy and bold future. “When you leave here, you carry the spirit of Alabama A&M wherever you go,” he said. “I thank God for making me a Normalite. Long live the legacy of William Hooper Councill, and long may Alabama A&M live to bless the world.”

President Wims led students in the University's Litany of Success before the class lit their candles to carry on the torch of knowledge and tradition. He closed the ceremony with one final message of accountability and excellence.

“Look to your left and say, ‘You will graduate.’ Look to your right and say, ‘You will graduate in four years,’” he told the class. “Your first semester will determine how well you succeed. This is your time. Be excellent. Be great!”

Watch the 2025 Torch Lighting Ceremony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HW3SfrXiU_4