Founder's Day celebration honors Albany State University 114 year legacy

Founder’s Day honors University’s past, present and future

ALBANY, Ga. – Albany State University will commemorate 114 years of heritage at the 2017 Founder’s Day celebration. The convocation will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, April 7, in the Billy C. Black Auditorium.

The annual event commemorates the legacy of Albany State University and founder, Joseph Winthrop Holley. This year’s theme is “Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Investing in the Future.”

“ASU has a rich history and dynamic present, which we are proud to convey,” said Sue Polite-Solomon, director of Alumni Affairs. “As we continue to grow in all areas, we are excited about the future of ASU.”

Alumnus Marvin Laster will serve as the keynote speaker at the convocation. Laster is a 2000 honor graduate of Albany State University and a 2012 honor graduate of Mercer University’s Stetson School of Economics and Business. He currently serves as the Chief Professional Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs (BGCA), of Albany, Ga., where he oversees the organization’s strategic planning. During his tenure at the BGCA, he has held several positions including Director of Diversity Services, creating the organization’s inclusion initiatives specifically aimed at serving kids with disabilities.

“We are honored to have Marvin Laster serve as our Founder’s Day keynote speaker. He is a committed Golden Ram and an excellent candidate for various reasons. We sincerely appreciate his commitment and dedication to ASU,” Polite-Solomon said.

The day’s events include a gravesite service at the founder’s burial site located on the lower campus, immediately following the convocation, and a 4 p.m. Founder’s Day block party at the Student Center Amphitheatre.

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About Albany State University …
Albany State University, in Southwest Georgia, has been a catalyst for change in the region from its inception as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute to its designation as a university. Founded in 1903 to educate African-American youth, the university continues to fulfill its historic mission while also serving the educational needs of an increasingly diverse student population. A progressive institution, Albany State University seeks to foster the growth and development of the region, state and nation through teaching, research, creative expression and public service. Through its collaborative efforts, the university responds to the needs of all of its constituents and offers educational programs and service to improve the quality of life in Southwest Georgia. For more information see http://www.asurams.edu. Follow the university on Twitter at @AlbanyStateUniv
and on Facebook at Albany State University Official Page.