New Initiative Expands Mentorship, NIL Opportunities and Support for Women Student-Athletes

Alabama A&M University alumni, supporters and community members are invited to celebrate the launch of the 1947 Project during a Sundresses and Sneakers kickoff event from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at the AAMU Event Center.

Inspired by the founding of Alabama A&M Women’s Basketball in 1947, the 1947 Project is a new initiative designed to support women student-athletes through mentorship, networking experiences and Name, Image and Likeness opportunities.

Organizers are seeking 100 women to become founding members of the initiative by contributing $200 each to help establish a lasting legacy of support for women student-athletes on The Hill.

“The 1947 Project was created with one goal in mind: people coming together to intentionally support and pour into the next generation of young women,” said Dawn Thornton, head women’s basketball coach. “Every conversation, every ticket, every woman who shows up and every person who chooses to support this vision helps us continue creating opportunities, experiences and access for our student-athletes beyond the game of basketball. While this initiative was designed to rally women from all walks of life, all are welcome to be part of something meaningful. I truly believe there is power in community, and there is nothing more special than people choosing to invest in what’s next.”

Thornton shares her vision for the 1947 Project in her personal invitation.

Registration and ticket purchases are available at 1947 Project Kickoff: Sundresses and Sneakers. Registration closes at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 31.

The event will celebrate the rich history and promising future of AAMU Women’s Basketball while introducing attendees to the vision behind the 1947 Project. Guests also will have the opportunity to connect with alumni, supporters and advocates committed to expanding opportunities for women student-athletes.

While the event is designed to center and celebrate women, men are encouraged to attend and show their support. Organizers ask male attendees to wear seersucker and sneakers.

Guests are encouraged to embrace the event’s theme by wearing sundresses and sneakers for an afternoon focused on style, purpose and community engagement.

For more information, contact Morgan Saintjones at morgan.saintjones@aamu.edu.