By Hazel Scott/ASU
Alabama State University’s Spring Class of 2026 is no ordinary graduating class. The class consists of leaders, scholars, trailblazers, veterans and heroes. These graduates were recognized for their academic achievements at ASU’s 313th Commencement exercise on Friday, May 8, in the Dunn-Oliver Acadome.
This year’s commencement speaker, April Ross, CEO of BeeTV Network, addressed graduates across two ceremonies.
“It’s a great day to be a Hornet,” Ross began, as she stood before the Class of 2026. She reminded the graduates that they had come not just to perform but to transform. She reflected that twenty-five years earlier, she sat where they were sitting, uncertain about the future but confident that ASU had prepared her well.
“One thing I did know is that The Alabama State University prepared me, shaped me and molded me. I’m sure that tradition continues today,” she said.
April shared that turning the tassel was a powerful symbol—not just a ceremony but a transformation into a new self. She advised that their “new selves” must realize that being on time wasn’t enough; graduates needed to arrive prepared, polished, and ready to dominate their moments. She urged them to leave behind old habits and step confidently into the boardroom of life, armed with lessons of respect, making eye contact, and dressing for the position to which they aspire.
“When your vision is clear, your future becomes unshakable. It is here at Alabama State University that I learned to dress for success. Don’t dress for where you are, dress for where you are going. Dress for the position you have prayed for, prepared for and are destined to have. Your preparation will always announce your arrival. Alabama State University teaches us not only how to show up but how to stand out,” Ross emphasized.
Her own path was not easy. Growing up in a humble Christian household, she didn’t always know her direction. Through faith and perseverance, Ross found her calling in television, starting behind the scenes but dreaming big. Despite setbacks and being told she wasn’t good enough to be on camera, Ross refused to let failure define her. With limited resources but fierce determination, she took a chance, broadcasting news live on a cracked iPhone, turning challenges into opportunities.
“Don’t listen to the naysayer, don’t listen to the ones that say I thought you have that degree and you haven’t found a job yet. Stay focused, don’t get off course and your time and opportunity will come.”
Years later, Ross became the first Black woman to own the TV station where she once interned—proof that faith, preparation, and resilience can break barriers. She reminded graduates not to forget those who supported them along the way and to embrace their new mindset with confidence and power.
“Don’t forget the bridge that brought you over. Years after the tassel has turned, don’t forget about mommy, who worked two jobs to get you here. Don’t forget about your dad, who would give you gas money when his own tank was on ‘E.’ Don’t forget all the sacrifices they have made to get you in this seat,” she encouraged.
She recalled that it was her father who opened the door for her first TV internship.
“Years later, the grass-cutting, lawnmower man’s daughter came back and bought that TV station (the one owned by his employer), making me the first Black woman to do so…..I started this journey on my knees as I do every morning…to get my assignment from God.”
As she concluded, Ross called on the Class of 2026 to “swarm the world” with excellence, saying, “Don’t just make an entrance; make an impact. So, go and be great.”
SPECIAL MOMENTS
During the ceremony, the Golden Class of 1976 received degrees marking their 50th anniversary and gifted the University a $310,000 check before they took their walk across the stage. Cadet Kayla Jackson also was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. There was a moment of silence to recognize those who transitioned in 2026, with a special acknowledgment of the late Rev. Cromwell Handy, who served as ASU’s director of Alumni Relations.
In a special ceremony, ASU bestowed honorary doctorates on Juliette and James McNeil, whose contributions often align with Alabama State University’s alumni initiatives, targeting student development and supporting future generations of graduates. Mrs. McNeil’s daughter, Ashley, accepted the honor on her mother’s behalf.
“They (the McNeils) are often highlighted among dedicated donors who invest in students and University programs, showcasing a commitment to the institution’s growth,” Dr. Ross said.
DEGREES CONFERRED
Over the two ceremonies, the University conferred 371 degrees: 245 undergraduates and 126 graduates.
The ASU Commencement ceremonies were live-streamed on the University’s YouTube channel.