Rebirth Brass Band, Doug E Fresh Rock Annual AAMU Fundraiser

Sounds of Bourbon Street and a ground-shaking mix of hits spanning generations of Hip-Hop and R&B performed by the originator of beatboxing put an exclamation point on an evening to remember on The Hill. The 24th Annual Alabama A&M University Black Tie Gala raised a record $705,000 for student scholarships.

WAFF News Anchor Margo Gray served as host for the celebration. Student testimonials highlighted the impact of the Gala, which will celebrate 25 years in 2025. Angel Morrow is a senior majoring in construction management. The AAMU scholarship recipient shared her story of involvement and success on The Hill. 

“As a first-generation student, I am so thankful for the support provided by this event,” said Morrow. “My success is not mine alone. It is for my mother and my sister, and all those who have made this opportunity a reality.” 

Bulldog Beat, the AAMU performance troupe, provided dinner entertainment before headliners The Rebirth Brass Band and Doug E Fresh took the stage. The Gala also recognized the outstanding support of organizations and individuals. This year’s honorees included: 

• Pastor Troy Garner – Koinonia Award Recipient 
  The Koinonia Award recognizes an individual and/or religious organization that has created a partnership with Alabama A&M University that directly benefits students. 
• Google – Diversity Award
  The Diversity Award celebrated the extraordinary efforts and achievements of corporations and organizations that champion diversity, equity and inclusion in education.
• The Delta Gamma Initiates of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – Small Organization Award
  The Small Organization Award recognizes the achievements of organizations and groups who create partnerships through education and serve as pillars of support, mentorships and resources for students.
• Turner Construction Company – Large Organization Award
  The Large Organization Award recognizes corporations and organizations for their exemplary corporate social responsibility initiatives, philanthropic endeavors and strategic partnerships aimed at promoting educational access.  

President Daniel K. Wims thanked alumni, supporters, and friends of the University for their commitment to assisting students who benefit from the annual effort.

“This event is special because it celebrates the direct impact of AAMU donors and friends on the success of our students” said President Wims. “We appreciate the record-setting support we’ve seen this year. As we reach new heights and go after new goals, that support will be increasingly important to Alabama A&M.”

The 2025 Gala will coincide with AAMU’s year-long 150th Anniversary Celebration. In anticipation of heightened ticket and sponsorship demand, the University encourages supporters to act fast to be part of the celebration which will raise over $1 million in support of scholarships.

“Over the past 24 years, this event has been instrumental in transforming lives, breaking down barriers to education and building stronger partnerships,” said Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Advancement Jamal Ali. “We’ve already begun planning for the 25th Gala, and we anticipate another sell out. So, plan early and look out for the announcement.”