Albany State University hosted the third installment of the President’s Lecture Series, Foundations for the Future, bringing students, faculty, staff, and community members together for an evening focused on leadership and workforce readiness. Presented in partnership with the ASU Strada Scholars Program, the series connects influential leaders with the campus community to inspire dialogue, professional growth, and purposeful leadership.

The Honorable Kenneth Hodges III, Judge on the Georgia Court of Appeals, served as the featured speaker and offered personal reflections and practical insights from his distinguished career in public service. An Albany native, Judge Hodges emphasized that leadership is developed through experience, accountability, and perseverance. His extensive background includes service as a District Attorney, private practice attorney, and President of the State Bar of Georgia, all of which inform his work on the Court of Appeals.

“As president, I am called to ensure our students are exposed to leaders who not only speak about success, but who model it through service, resilience, and integrity,” said Albany State University President Dr. Robert Scott. “Judge Hodges reminded us that leadership is not reserved for a select few, it is cultivated through discipline, humility, and a willingness to learn.”

Judge Hodges praised Albany State’s commitment to leadership development and student success, stating, “If you want to be a leader, you enrolled in the right university.”

Throughout the lecture, Judge Hodges encouraged attendees to embrace diverse perspectives, surround themselves with people who challenge their ideas, and develop leadership styles that align with their strengths. He shared lessons on humility, resilience, and decision-making, reminding students that mistakes are not the opposite of success, but part of the process.

Judge Hodges emphasized that leaders are not born, but made through intentional skill development, encouraging attendees to embrace diverse perspectives and surround themselves with people who are willing to challenge ideas in pursuit of shared success. He encouraged students to identify leadership styles that align with their strengths, noting that while his approach is largely participative and delegative, effective leaders must sometimes make difficult, authoritative decisions. He highlighted the importance of finding common ground, building relationships, and treating people with kindness, reminding students that “you never know where someone’s path may lead.”

During the question-and-answer session, Judge Hodges reflected on his nontraditional path to law, noting that he did not aspire to become a judge until shortly before seeking the role. He encouraged students to approach every opportunity with excellence, pursue internships and civic engagement opportunities, and remain persistent when facing obstacles.

The President’s Lecture Series, Foundations for the Future, continues to serve as a platform for meaningful conversation, leadership development, and career preparation, reinforcing Albany State University’s commitment to student success and community engagement.