Trustees Back Academic Expansion, Campus Development and Governance Updates

The Alabama A&M University Board of Trustees convened its final meeting of 2025 on Friday, Oct. 24, at The Westin Birmingham, approving several measures designed to expand academic programs, strengthen partnerships, and modernize University policies. The session, held ahead of the annual Magic City Classic, reflected the University’s continued commitment to growth and student success during its milestone 150th Anniversary.

During the meeting, the Board received updates from President Daniel K. Wims and Cabinet leadership, reviewed audit and investment reports, and discussed initiatives aligned with the University’s long-term strategic plan.

“The growth and forward progress of Alabama A&M University is evident in all you’ve heard this week. We are laser focused on leveraging our sesquicentennial celebration as a time to envision The Hill of today and tomorrow,” said Wims. “Not only that, but through the support of this Board, and our many constituents, we’re taking the steps needed to place our institution on firm footing for the future.”

Among the academic approvals was the addition of a master's degree in interdisciplinary studies, a flexible program that allows graduate students to design cross-disciplinary paths suited to their academic and professional goals. The Board also approved renaming the Department of Health Sciences, Human Performance and Communicative Disorders to the Department of Human Performance and Communicative Disorders, aligning departmental organization with national trends and academic standards.

It also approved a utilities fire line easement agreement to support ongoing campus development and ensure compliance with city fire safety requirements. These steps advance AAMU’s master plan and enhance capacity for future growth.

“Alabama A&M is on the move. We're proud that enrollment is up to historic levels,” said Board President Pro Tempore Kevin Ball. “We now have 7,808 students currently enrolled on campus, continuing the trend of AAMU being a school of choice for those wanting to get an education at an HBCU.”

The Board also approved several new Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) designed to strengthen and expand recruitment pipelines and community engagement. The agreements include partnerships with the Madison County School District, Madison City School District, Detroit Midnight Golf Program, and the Indianapolis Urban League.

Information Technology Services received approval for a new email security policy and a partnership with the University of Alabama System Regional Optical Network (UASRON), giving AAMU high-speed connections to all UA System campuses and national research networks like Internet2, strengthening cybersecurity and collaborative research opportunities.

In governance, trustees approved updates to the Title IX and vehicle use policies, as well as a new paid parental leave policy. They also adopted an amendment to the board of trustees bylaws, ensuring the University’s policies remain aligned with best practices and federal compliance standards.

“I'm proud to say that our 150th celebration is a success. It has been an innovative and effective way to increase our partnerships and inspire more alumni to become donors,” said Ball. “It is still underway. We still have time to bring more resources and more Bulldog advocates to support Alabama A&M University.”

With these strategic initiatives, AAMU continues to build on its rich legacy while boldly advancing toward a future defined by academic excellence, innovation, and opportunity for all students. The next Board of Trustees Subcommittee and Formal Meetings will be held February 19-20, 2026.