Albany State University Has Memorable 2025 Founder’s Week

Albany State University (ASU) recently concluded a memorable Founder’s Week, celebrating 122 years of progress and promise under the theme “From Foundations to Frontiers.” The week-long celebration, held from April 1-4, brought together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the community to honor ASU’s rich history and bright future. 

The highlight of the week was the Founder’s Day Convocation on Friday, April 4, in the Billy C. Black Auditorium on East Campus. ASU was honored to welcome Nikeya N. Taylor as the Convocation Speaker. As the great-niece of ASU’s founder, Dr. Joseph Winthrop Holley, Taylor’s presence underscored the enduring legacy of leadership and service that defines Albany State. In her address, she reflected on Dr. Holley’s vision and the continued responsibility of ASU to uplift and empower future generations.

“Albany State is not just a collection of buildings and classrooms. It is a testament of the power of family, community, and love. Dr. Holley saw a need, a community yearning for knowledge and a better life. His dream was bigger than a school, it was a movement. A movement built on faith, perseverance, and the belief that education is the key to unlocking a future filled with possibilities,” said Nikeya N. Taylor.

Interim President, Dr. Lawrence M. Drake expressed his gratitude for the community’s participation in Founder’s Week, emphasizing ASU’s commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

“The foundation of ASU, that single thread, has now been woven into the history of all the alumni and students of the institution. Those who can think differently will be those who can change the world. Dr. Holley’s legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those at ASU. We honor his vision and celebrate the achievements that he laid before us, and all those that have been achieved since, ” said Interim President Lawrence Drake.

Following the Convocation, attendees gathered for the traditional Graveside Service at the Presidential Burial Site on the Lower East Campus, paying tribute to Dr. Holley’s legacy and reaffirming the university’s dedication to its founding principles.

Throughout the week, ASU hosted a variety of events, including alumni and student engagement activities. These events highlighted ASU’s journey from its origins as a Bible and Manual Training Institute to its current standing as a regionally ranked HBCU making a global impact.

As Founder’s Week concluded, the ASU community left inspired and invigorated, ready to build upon the university’s strong foundation and continue its journey toward new frontiers.