New MOU Draws Alabama HBCUs Closer
Drake, AAMU sign agreement
Separated by only a fence, two Alabama historically black colleges and universities have become even closer when it comes to innovative programs that lead toward the success of their students.
The presidents of Alabama A&M University and J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College, both located in Huntsville, Ala., signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) June 17 that will enable students awarded delayed admission to AAMU to begin their academic tenures at Drake State and earn a credential as they prepare for transfer to AAMU.
“The Pathways Program offers access to a high quality and affordable education for resolute learners,” stated Dr. Gary B. Crosby, AAMU vice president for student affairs. “Students enrolled in specific programs under this agreement will concurrently enroll in courses at AAMU to strengthen their college preparedness.”
By following an approved course of study in the Pathways Program, the students will only enroll in courses required for graduation from Drake State and that automatically transfer to AAMU, according to Dr. Pamela H. Little, director of admissions and registrar at Drake State.
In statements during the signing ceremony at AAMU, President Andrew Hugine, Jr., and Drake’s President Patricia Sims noted that the Pathways Programs aims to increase credential attainment, as well as to eliminate any hurdles that may exist in the transfer process.
According to Crosby and Little, Pathways Program students will attend small classes in a supportive learning environment while gaining access to resources available only at the university level.
“The students enrolled in the Pathways Program are both Blue Eagles and Bulldogs from Day One,” said Little.
Joining the presidents at the MOU signing were members of the administration of both schools, in addition to cabinet-level officials, deans and other administrators.
For more information about the Pathways Program, contact Dr. Gary B. Crosby at AAMU, (256) 372-5233, or Dr. Pamela H. Little, Drake State, at (256) 551-1711.