ASU President Dr. Robert Scott: Homecoming 2025 Reflections
Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025
Homecoming Day began with our annual breakfast honoring Albert “Smitty” Smith at 7:30 a.m., followed by the excitement of the parade. Later that morning, I changed into my T-shirt to celebrate the diversity of the alumni base I have the honor of serving, representing Albany State College, Albany State University (pre-consolidation), Darton State College (pre-consolidation), and present-day Albany State University. I understand that both the shirt and float sparked conversation on social media.
The intent behind that gesture was simple yet meaningful. As president of a consolidated university, I lead a blended family of alumni. It was important to me that every alum felt seen, valued, and invited to join me in moving toward the tremendous future ahead of us while also recognizing and honoring our distinct histories, pains, disappointments, and triumphs. The slogan on the shirt and float, “Two Histories, One Future,” was a reflection of that commitment.
This conversation is timely and speaks directly to our institutional motto: “A Past to Cherish. A Future to Fulfill.” I believe much of the concern expressed came from a genuine desire to ensure that I understand and honor our past. I want to assure you that I do. As president, I am committed to working each day to fulfill a future centered on student success and to ensure our university’s sustainability for the next 122 years.
Today, I spent time re-reading portions of Dr. Holley’s book, You Can’t Build a Chimney from the Top. I remain deeply inspired by his vision and foresight, particularly his ability to build a strong and diverse coalition of supporters for this institution. Many of the buildings on our campus still bear the names of those early partners who believed in and helped sustain his vision. I also reflect on the weight of the decision Dr. Holley faced when transitioning from leading a private institution to petitioning the State of Georgia to bring Albany State into the University System, a decision that ensured our long-term viability and mission.
ASU is a proud HBCU, and we will continue the important work of advancing our mission and growing our impact. I believe ASU stands at another defining moment in its history. As we have done before, we must decide whether we will embrace a bold future for our HBCU. This path will require courage, honest conversations, and collective effort.
I recognize that history is heavy, and not everyone may choose to come along on this journey. Yet as president, I am called to create the conditions that invite as many alumni and friends as possible to join us in building something truly special.
A heartfelt thank-you to the alumni who reached out with both concerns and encouragement. I deeply appreciate your openness, your honesty, and your steadfast commitment to Albany State University’s continued success.
With heartfelt gratitude and Golden Ram pride,
Dr. Robert Scott
