Alabama A&M Trustees Approve Key Academic and Campus Measures During Summer Meeting

The Alabama A&M University Board of Trustees held its regular meeting June 26 at the Clyde Foster Multipurpose Room on campus, approving a series of measures designed to strengthen academic programs, enhance campus safety, support student success and advance the University's long-term strategic goals.
Among the meeting's highlights, trustees approved the University's fiscal year 2027 budget and tuition and fee proposal, along with several academic partnerships that expand educational opportunities for current and future students.

Trustees approved memoranda of understanding with: 

• Alabama State University that provides students with pathways to pursue an Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), and degrees in Mechanical Engineering.

• Madison County, Madison City, and Decatur City school systems, expanding dual enrollment agreements with the opportunities for high school students to earn college credit and begin their college experience through Alabama A&M.

During his report, President Daniel K. Wims highlighted ongoing campus improvements including the opening of the first primary care clinic in North Huntsville – Physician Care North Huntsville, the recent ribbon-cutting of the renovated Stephens and Morris residence halls, the Paint Rock Valley facility project plans, Normal Creek erosion repair, and the progress of the Hillcrest restoration project. 

“These projects address important needs of our students and broader community.” said President Wims. “We are extremely excited about what this progress will mean for our campus and North Huntsville.” 

Wims also recognized 6 years of service for outgoing Trustee Richard Crunkleton with the awarding of the Presidential medallion.

“Here we grow again,” said Board President Trustee Kevin Ball. “The University is on track for success. We are acquiring and adding property. Our academic programs are excelling, PhD enrollment is increasing, and our research efforts reflect a progressive approach that has our University on the cutting edge. Alabama A&M University is on the move.”

The Board of Trustees also received and approved the fourth-year presidential evaluation before voting to extend the contract of President Daniel K. Wims by an additional two years. Trustees also approved a salary increase for the University’s 12th president.

In support of the University's academic growth, the board also approved the creation of the Department of Sport Management, further expanding Alabama A&M's academic offerings and preparing students for careers in the growing sports industry.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on campus safety and public security. The board approved a series of public safety enhancements, including updated policies governing use of force, vehicle pursuits and active shooter response, as well as the acquisition of protective equipment evidence management, body armor, firearms, pepper spray, handcuffs, ASP batons, video monitoring and surveillance, and other resources for the Department of Public Safety.

Trustees also approved plans for the new Student Union Column Tribute Program, an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate individuals whose contributions have helped shape the University's legacy through recognition on the 27 columns of the new facility. Governance action items included a name change of Career Development Services to the Office of Career and Workforce Development and updates to the University's policy on free expression, recording, filming and digital distribution.

The Alabama A&M University Board of Trustees will hold its fall meeting in October.