photo courtesy of Andy Barbour on pexels.com
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Auburn University at Montgomery students joined more than 1,000 student leaders and advisors at the Alabama State House last Thursday for the Higher Education Day parade, rallying in support of Alabama’s public universities while proudly carrying collegiate banners and wearing their school colors.
“Alabama’s universities shape the state’s economy and must be supported,” said Executive Director Gordon Stone, emphasizing the value of the event. “Our more than 180,000 (college) students are the key to the state’s thriving economy.”
Stone said the event also highlights the role universities play in preparing students for the modern workforce.
AUM joined 13 other public universities at the annual event with this year’s theme, “Turning Dreams Into Reality,” emphasizing the importance of higher education in expanding opportunity and preparing students for the workforce. Higher Education Day is organized by the Higher Education Partnership, a statewide coalition that advocates for Alabama’s public universities.
“It’s important for lawmakers to see who they’re investing in,” said Mar’Derious Flowers, Student Government Association vice president at AUM. “We’re not just numbers in a budget. We’re future teachers, journalists, doctors and business leaders.”
Flowers said participating in the parade allowed AUM students to visibly demonstrate their commitment to education and leadership.
“Achieving your dreams isn’t just a slogan,” Flowers said. “For a lot of us, it depends on access, financial aid, mentorship and opportunities that prepare us for our careers.”
Flowers reflected on how receiving his own scholarship helped support his educational journey at AUM.
“I love coming to the parade and bringing students outside of just the leaders on campus. I want more students to participate next year.” Katie Sowell said. “I manage most of the involvement on campus and I want them to see how their leadership can really be effective.”
Students and advisors described the day as energizing and empowering, reinforcing the idea that student voices play a role in shaping state policy.
For AUM students, Higher Education Day served as both a celebration of school pride and a reminder that advocacy continues beyond the classroom.
“As Alabama prepares to compete in a knowledge-based economy, it is crucial to empower universities to train and equip graduates with the skills to compete for the best jobs and to lead our state forward,” Stone added.
