Nationally Recognized Attorney to Inspire AAMU Freshman at Torch Lighting
Distinguished Alumnus Don Calloway to Welcome Class of 2029
Delivering the keynote address for this year's Freshman Torch Lighting Ceremony is two-time graduate Don Calloway, a nationally recognized attorney, strategic advisor, political analyst, and advocate for civic engagement. Alabama A&M University will officially welcome the Class of 2029 during the 2025 Freshman Torch Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, August 16, at 6:00 p.m. in the Event Center.
Calloway earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Alabama A&M before completing his law degree at Boston University. He is the founder and CEO of Pine Street Advisors, a Washington, D.C.-based corporate advisory firm known for its work in public affairs, equity-focused advocacy, and governmental relations. A former Student Government Association president and proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Calloway represents the power and promise of an Alabama A&M education.
From shaping energy equity policy as an executive at a global renewable energy company to serving in the Missouri House of Representatives and advocating for voter protection across the country, Calloway has built a multifaceted career centered on justice, access, and innovation. His earlier work includes legal practice in complex business litigation and federal affairs leadership at Anheuser Busch, where he helped manage the largest corporate merger in history. His firm, Pine Street Advisors, evolved from a successful lobbying firm he launched in 2016, which helped elect a new generation of municipal leaders and advised clients nationwide on regulatory and political strategy.
Calloway’s passion for civic service led him to establish the National Voter Protection Action Fund in 2018, a nonprofit committed to fighting voter suppression and expanding access to the ballot in historically disenfranchised communities. He continues to offer pro bono legal services in civil rights and maintains an active voice in national discourse through frequent contributions to MSNBC, CNN, The Washington Post, and other major outlets.
The Freshman Torch Lighting Ceremony is a long-standing tradition that marks the beginning of each student’s collegiate journey at Alabama A&M. Hosted by the Division of Student Affairs, the event reinforces the University’s commitment to leadership, scholarship, and service while symbolizing the passage of knowledge from one generation of Bulldogs to the next.
All first-year students are required to participate in the full day of events. Buses will begin transporting students from Patton Hall at 3:00 p.m., with students expected to arrive at Louis Crews Stadium by 3:45 p.m. for the official Class of 2029 photo. Following the photo, students will proceed to the Event Center for the ceremony.
Dress for the occasion includes the Class of 2029 polo shirt (provided), black pants (no jeans), and comfortable shoes. Clear bags are required for entry into the venue, and water will be available during lineup in accordance with campus safety guidelines.
After the ceremony, families are invited to join their students behind the Event Center for a celebratory cookout. Student ID cards are required for food service.
The 2025 Freshman Torch Lighting Ceremony is a significant milestone that honors both the promise of our newest Bulldogs and the enduring legacy of Alabama A&M University. Parents and families are strongly encouraged to attend and take part in this momentous beginning.