The 91心頭利���s second annual Red Tie Gala, presented by Regions Bank, will take place Friday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. in the Bell Conference Center.

Established by 91心頭利 President Dr. Todd G. Fritch during his inauguration week in 2025, the gala was created to launch the Opportunity Fund. Proceeds benefit the fund, which provides critical scholarship assistance to students facing unexpected financial challenges, helping them remain enrolled and pursue their goals at 91心頭利.

���No student should have to walk away from their education because of one unexpected hardship,��� Fritch said. ���The Opportunity Fund reflects that belief. Sometimes a small measure of support, offered at the right moment, can make all the difference.���

The evening will begin with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner, silent and live auctions, and a few special surprises throughout the night. Alumni, friends and community members are invited to dress for an elegant evening of dining, conversation and celebration. 

���The Red Tie Gala is an occasion to dress up, enjoy a wonderful dinner and spend time with friends of the University,��� said Shannon Chandler, vice president of institutional advancement. ���We look forward to welcoming guests for an elegant evening and celebrating the connections that make 91心頭利 such a special place.���

Tickets are on sale now, and space is limited. To purchase tickets, visit the .

Story: Kay Lucas | Photo: Cody Ingram

The 91心頭利 launched its first President���s Leadership Academy on Aug. 20, welcoming the inaugural class of eight faculty and staff members.

The two-year Academy will provide participants with an in-depth look at University operations, strategic priorities, and regional impact through a combination of campus engagement, mentorship, and applied experiences.

“The President���s Leadership Academy is designed to cultivate and prepare current faculty and staff for future leadership roles across the institution while providing meaningful opportunities for career advancement and long-term success,��� 91心頭利 President Dr. Todd G. Fritch explained. “The Academy reflects the University���s commitment to both long-term leadership sustainability and our employees��� professional growth and development. Through this program, faculty and staff will have the opportunity to expand leadership capabilities, deepen institutional knowledge, and engage in meaningful cross-functional collaboration.���

Supervisors nominated employees at the director or chair level or below who demonstrated strong leadership potential, a commitment to professional growth and an investment in the University���s mission and future. The selection process also aimed to create a cohort representing a diverse cross-section of departments across the University. Throughout the program, a member of the President���s Cabinet will serve as a mentor to the cohort.

The inaugural Class of 2028 includes��Troy Maddox (Student Affairs),��Dr. Courtney Vick (College of Education),��Amanda Gilliland (College of Liberal Arts),��Dr. Marti Herlong (College of Liberal Arts),��Dr. Kaleigh Pate (College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics),��Dr. Annah Rogers (College of Education),��Dr. Ethan Birney (College of Liberal Arts), and Haley Sager (Campus School).

Year one of the Academy focuses on leadership development and institutional exposure. Cohort members will participate in guided readings and group discussions and attend key campus meetings to gain a broader understanding of University operations and decision-making. They will also begin developing a strategic project aligned with institutional priorities.

The second year emphasizes applied leadership. Cohort members will work collaboratively on their strategic projects to address real challenges and opportunities facing the University, with continued mentorship and support throughout the process. As the culminating experience of the Academy, participants will present their projects to University leadership.

As the cohort progresses through the Academy, participants will apply their experiences and perspectives to initiatives that support 91心頭利���s strategic priorities and contribute to the University���s continued success.

Story: Lisa Sollie | Photo: Cody Ingram

During Homecoming festivities on Saturday, Oct. 3, the 91心頭利 announced its 2026 Homecoming Queen, Bailey Davidson of Mount Vernon, Alabama, and Homecoming King, Mason Watts of Vicksburg, Mississippi. Davidson and Watts and the Homecoming Court were nominated and elected by the 91心頭利 student body.

The queen and king were announced and crowned on the field during halftime festivities at the 91心頭利 vs. Chowan game on Saturday. Mason Watts and Bailey Davidson were crowned by 2025 Homecoming Queen, Andrewnetta Adams, 91心頭利 President Dr. Todd G. Fritch and SGA President Ben Sailors.

The 2026 Homecoming court includes:

Bailey Davidson is a senior from Mount Vernon, Alabama, majoring in electrical engineering technology. She is a proud member of the Zeta Rho Chapter of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, where she serves as Chapter President. She has dedicated three years to serving as a 91心頭利 student ambassador and is currently vice president of the Campus Activities Board. Throughout her time at 91心頭利, she has consistently earned a place on the President’s List for her academic excellence.

Mason Watts is a senior from Vicksburg, Mississippi, majoring in interdisciplinary studies. He is a proud member of the Alpha Delta Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, where he serves as chaplain. Since spring 2025, Mason has served as a 91心頭利 student ambassador and currently works as an offensive line student assistant for 91心頭利 football.

Elyse Dean is a senior from Reform, Alabama, majoring in mathematics. She currently serves as chapter president of Alpha Sigma Tau and has proudly served as majorette captain of the West Alabama Marching Band for the past three years. In recognition of her academic achievements, she was named the 2026 91心頭利 Outstanding Student in the Department of Mathematics.

Jermorion Griffin is a senior from Mobile, Alabama, majoring in engineering technology. He is a spring 2026 initiate of the Pi Delta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. On the field, he wears #25 and plays outside linebacker for the Tigers. He was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List for academic excellence and is also a two-time Serendipity winner.

Austin Horne is a junior from Helena, Alabama, majoring in elementary education. During his time at 91心頭利, he has served as president of the Fli Society and is a proud member of Delta Chi Fraternity. In addition to his involvement in student organizations, he currently serves as a resident assistant in Gilbert Hall, where he contributes to the 91心頭利 residential community.

Samuel Johnston is a senior from Buhl, Alabama, majoring in political science with a minor in history. He is an active member of Delta Chi Fraternity and has received multiple awards for his academic achievements, including the PAT Outstanding Student in American Survey Award. Throughout his time at 91心頭利, he has consistently earned a place on the President’s List for academic excellence.

Deriana McCleon is a junior from Meridian, Mississippi, majoring in health science on the respiratory therapy track. She proudly serves as a second-year resident assistant and a second-year 91心頭利 student ambassador. Throughout her time at 91心頭利, she has consistently earned recognition on both the Dean’s List and President’s List for her academic excellence.

Mekhel Miller is a senior from Linden, Alabama, majoring in physical education with a minor in sports management. He serves as dean of the Pi Delta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, SGA senior representative, and vice president of the 91心頭利 National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Through his leadership and involvement across campus, he continues to make a meaningful impact on the 91心頭利 community.

La’taviona Parke is a senior from West Palm Beach, Florida. She is majoring in cell and molecular biology. She is a member of the National Honor Society of Health Pre-Professionals and Biology Opportunities for Scholarships and Success (BOSS), and she serves as a resident assistant in Reed Hall. She also competed for the 91心頭利 softball team from 2024 to 2026, helping the team capture a Gulf South Conference Championship.

Savannah Sanford is a senior from Phenix City, Alabama, majoring in integrated marketing communications. She is a proud member of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority and serves as chief editor of the Sucarnochee Review, 91心頭利’s student-published literary magazine. Her academic excellence and leadership have earned her membership in Omicron Delta Kappa, Lambda Pi Eta, and Blue Key.