Reed Credits Success to AAMU's Academic Excellence

Marc Reed will earn his second diploma at Alabama A&M University’s 149th Commencement Ceremony Friday. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and will graduate with a Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) degree.

“I chose to continue my education here due to the foundational network and skillset acquired while pursuing my undergraduate degree,” says Reed. “I’ve always been drawn to AAMU’s mission of empowering students to make meaningful contributions to their communities, particularly in underrepresented areas. The opportunity to learn from experienced faculty, collaborate with a diverse student body, and gain hands-on experience in planning for rapidly growing cities like Huntsville was instrumental in my decision.”

While in graduate school, Reed had a chance to intern with the Huntsville City Council and was soon offered a full-time job as an administrative assistant. Last December, he accepted an offer as Urban and Regional Planner II for the City of Huntsville.  Reed says he’ll be back on campus in his new role as the city looks to redevelop the Meridian Street Corridor and create a new greenway near campus.

“I’m most looking forward to advancing community-oriented development initiatives through detailed subdivision reviews,” says Reed. “This role allows me to directly influence how neighborhoods are designed, ensuring they are not only functional but also sustainable and equitable. I’m excited to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and leverage innovative planning tools to enhance transparency and efficiency in the development process, ultimately contributing to Huntsville’s growth while preserving its historical character.”

Reed’s ultimate career goal is to serve in a management position within the City of Huntsville's Planning Department or another local municipality in Alabama. He says he will work to provide sustainable development, equitable growth, and innovative urban solutions tailored to the needs of the community. 

What will you miss most about your time on The Hill?

“From the football games, to the workouts at the Wellness Center, to the parties on The Quad, I'll graduate knowing that I truly enjoyed my time on campus.

What about your classmates and friends?

“I'll miss the overall support that my friends/classmates and I shared through the years. Both the class presentations and opportunities to share knowledge outside of the classroom were an essential part in assisting me to confidently begin my professional career.” 

And the faculty?

“Their unwavering support and dedication to student success. They challenge us to think critically about urban and regional planning issues. The program emphasized the need to balance growth with equity, teaching me how to analyze complex urban issues and propose innovative solutions. The hands-on experiences, combined with the faculty’s mentorship, deepened my understanding of collaborative planning and stakeholder engagement. These lessons apply directly to my current role and will continue to guide me throughout my career.”

Reed has a message for his fellow Bulldogs.

“To the next generation of students, I want to say never let your circumstances define your potential. Growing up in Birmingham, raised by a single parent, my mother, I learned the values of resilience, determination, and hard work. Alabama A&M University gave me the foundation to turn my aspirations into achievements, proving that success is attainable for anyone willing to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication. Your journey might not always be easy, but every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and remember, your story matters. Start here, Go Anywhere!”