Trustees Approve Campus Development Plans, International Partnerships and University Policies
AAMU Board Sets Course for Continued Growth at Annual Birmingham Meeting
The Alabama A&M University Board of Trustees approved a series of initiatives Friday, Oct. 30, aimed at strengthening University operations, expanding academic opportunities and supporting long-term institutional growth during its annual meeting in Birmingham. Held at The Westin Birmingham ahead of the 85th Magic City Classic, the meeting brought University leadership together to advance priorities involving campus development, financial stewardship, academic partnerships, technology and student safety.
Among the Board’s actions were approval of the University’s master plan, matters related to Stallworth Drive and renewal of a line of credit. Trustees also approved the University’s fiscal year 2025 audit, reinforcing the institution's focus on financial accountability and long-term planning.
The Board advanced Alabama A&M’s academic and international engagement efforts through approval of memorandums of understanding with the University of Kindu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Red Cross. Trustees also authorized continued participation of the AAMU Child Development Center in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Child and Adult Care Food Program, supporting nutritional services for children and families served by the center.
In his report, President Daniel K. Wims emphasized the significance of the Board’s actions in supporting Alabama A&M’s continued progress and strategic direction with special emphasis on increased enrollment and retention.
“Along with record enrollment, we’re excited about our retention trends which are up to 71.4% for the freshman cohort of 2025,” said Wims. “We are also tracking the overall economic impact of Alabama A&M on the region. Most recent numbers show an $847.7 million impact compared to a $738.4 million impact a year ago.”
Trustees also approved policies governing University branding and the use of artificial intelligence in institutional marketing, establishing guidelines to support consistent messaging and responsible use of emerging technologies. An international travel technology policy was approved to address technology-related requirements for University personnel traveling abroad.
Student safety and campus security were also central to the meeting. Trustees approved policies addressing firearms, use of force, active shooter response, vehicle pursuits, video monitoring and surveillance, body armor, evidence handling and other law enforcement procedures. The board also approved the Smoke-Free Campus Policy. Together, these actions establish guidelines for campus safety operations, emergency response and a healthier campus environment.
In governance matters, the Board approved a change in the title of the assistant vice president for enrollment management position to associate vice president for enrollment management, along with key employee policies.
The meeting also included the re-election of Board President Pro Tempore Kevin Ball and other officers. The Board received reports from University leadership across subcommittees and an update from the Student Government Association president.
Board President Pro Tempore Kevin Ball highlighted the importance of maintaining strong governance and positioning the University for continued success.
“We’re building a culture here for success and collaboration that is producing visible results across the campus,” said Ball. “The first order of business will be to take care of what’s going to happen tomorrow. We’re looking to be victorious in the Magic City Classic as we continue to reach new heights as a University.”
The annual October board meeting is a longstanding part of Alabama A&M’s Magic City Classic week, bringing University leadership to Birmingham as thousands of alumni, students and supporters gather to celebrate Bulldog pride.
While the weekend centers on the nation’s largest HBCU football rivalry, the Board’s actions reflect the institution’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, responsible stewardship and creating new opportunities for future generations of Bulldogs.