Gift Establishes Stallworth Scholars Program

Alabama A&M University today announced that it is the recipient of a $1.2 million endowment from the John Stallworth Foundation to provide tuition assistance for academically gifted students at AAMU. The Stallworth Foundation, established in 1980 by John and his wife, Flo, provides merit-based scholarships to deserving students attending their alma mater.

“The gift from the John Stallworth Foundation confirms the dedication that our alums have to this institution. Not only is this impactful to our institution but, it assists with the solidification of our growing brand and reputation. We commend the Stallworths for their continued support and commitment to their alma mater and for having the foresight to secure educational opportunities for our students,” said Daniel Wims, president of AAMU.

Scholarship recipients, to be known as Stallworth Scholars, must meet the required funding criteria and will be recognized yearly at the AAMU Honor’s Convocation as a John Stallworth Foundation Endowment Scholar.

AAMU’s recent growth of increased enrollment, grants, research funding and infrastructure improvements, coupled with its most recent announcement of due diligence to purchase a campus to operate under the AAMU umbrella, corresponds with the upcoming embarkment of its sesquicentennial celebration next year. The Stallworth gift complements the institution’s revitalization.

As a 1974 graduate, Stallworth returned to the Hill as a member of the 2024 Golden Class to celebrate their 50th year anniversary and also delivered the Spring 2024 Commencement address. Additionally, he currently serves as chair of the AAMU 150th Celebration Committee. Upon his graduation from AAMU, Stallworth was subsequently drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played in six AFC championships and four Super Bowls. Furthermore, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002. He served as President and CEO of Madison Research Corporation, formed in 1986, prior to his retirement from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Stallworth sold Madison Research Corporation and retired in 2006. In 2009, he became a part-owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers.