As Alabama A&M prepares for its 150th anniversary next year, the university recently added to its historical and educational legacy.

The university's Board of Trustees approved the first endowed chair in the university's history at Friday's board meeting.

The College of Business's Vivian Malone Endowed Chair in Business Excellence honors the pioneering Alabama A&M alumnus and the first African American student to graduate from the University of Alabama.

Vivian Malone Jones graduated from the University of Alabama in 1965 after receiving her bachelor's degree from Alabama A&M in 1962.

After a long legal battle, Malone and James Hood officially enrolled at the University of Alabama in 1963, at the same time that they became the center of a national debate over racial equity in higher education. These two students effectively put an end to racial discrimination in southern higher education.

However, Hood left the university after two months, but returned in 1995 to complete his Ph.D.

Malone's sister, Margie Tuckson, started an effort to establish an endowment committee and donated $250,000 to the AAMU Foundation to pave the way. Both sisters joined the Delta Delta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at Alabama A&M University.

During Friday's meeting, AAMU President Dr. Daniel K. Wims presented an update on The Hill's programs and projects.

Mr Wims said demolition of the former Council Training School was underway to make way for the future campus and expansion of the Meridian Street corridor, pending completion of selective reconstruction and building modeling of the Hillcrest building. Ta.

“We believe the entire project will take about a year and a half to complete,” Wims said. “This is going to be a capstone project. Hillcrest will be a very beautiful facility for the university family and the community.”

Professor Wims also noted the increased enrollment, increased research activity, national excitement generated by the marching maroons and whites' performance in the 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the university's position as the stage for the 150th anniversary celebration. He emphasized the development achievements of AAMU as important victories in preparing for the future.

Pro Tempore Board Chairman Dr. Roderick Watts shared his enthusiasm for Alabama A&M's position and direction.

“We are pleased that things are moving in the right direction at Alabama A&M, with record enrollment, increased fundraising, and increased international recognition with the Marching Maroon and White’s participation in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. ” he said. “I am satisfied with the current situation at the university.”