Reginald Christian, affectionately known to many as the “Mayor of ASU,” has been a steadfast presence at Albany State University (ASU) for over three decades. Growing up as the eldest son in a small family, with a mother who was both an ASU alumna and a dedicated schoolteacher, and a father who was a truck driver and a farmer, Reginald was inspired early on to pursue his own path.

Balancing a full-time job while taking classes part-time, he spent 12 years earning his degree in Business Administration, driven by a dream to one day own his own business. Along the way, a chance introduction to photography sparked a passion that would shape his career and connect him deeply to the University.

For 31 years, he has captured the spirit of the campus, witnessing its many changes and milestones. Today, he reflects on his journey, a story of perseverance, purpose, and a profound love for the place he calls home.

What brought you to ASU and what has kept you here?

It all started during football season when I worked at the WALB News Station. WALB was short-staffed in sports, and Jim Wallace asked me to tag along for an interview at the University. We interviewed the football coach and the President at that time, Dr. Billy C. Black. After the interview, Dr. Black offered me a job. I didn’t take it right away. But about a month later, we returned for another story, and he offered again. That time, I accepted.

I started overseeing the entire Media Center. Back then, there weren’t projectors in classrooms, so I was in charge of rolling audio-visual equipment to any class, any time of day or night. As technology evolved, so did my role. We trained on new systems, and the job never got boring. I even remember recording classes on VHS, editing in-camera, and driving the tapes over to Darton State College so they could be played on Channel 19. I’ve worked under multiple presidents, and I’ve had an office in nearly every building on East Campus and I wouldn’t change a thing.

I‘ve stayed at Albany State because of the people. My job has never been dull, and it has afforded me the chance to go places, meet people, and do things I never even imagined possible. 

Tell me about your first memory of being on the campus of ASU?

It was when I attended ASU as a student. I was a country boy who had never been to the city. I was kind of from a sheltered family, and we had one vehicle, so I remember my dad let me borrow the old Ford truck to come to college. The truck wasn’t the prettiest thing in the world, but I was proud of it.

Once, I took a girl on a date in college in that truck, and the heater was broken; it also had a hole in the floor, so we just sat under a blanket the whole time. It was bad, but she and I are friends to this day, and we look back on that time and laugh about it now.

Is there a special place on campus that holds memories for you?

Yes, the area where the Fine Arts Building use to be. We called it “the square.” It was just a wooden bench, but everybody hung out there. I remember when I would go sit there and watch the whole campus pass by. It was communal, a place to feel connected no matter who you were on campus.

For peace and quiet now, I go to East campus. It feels like home. I especially like the gazebo near the tennis courts. A lot of people overlook it, but it’s peaceful. On West campus, I like the J-building for the same reason.

What traditions or events do you look forward to each year?

I’ve been through all of them, but Homecoming is the best. I get to see former classmates and students whose pictures I took back in the day. They come back with their families, and we all get a few moments to reminisce.

I get to have those moments at other events too. At a recent Freshman Orientation, I met a lady who was a former Passionate who I used to photograph with the band. She has a daughter who attends ASU now and always tells her about back in the day when I took her photos. Those moments are truly flattering and special for me.

What challenges have you faced that have helped you grow during your time at ASU?

One of the biggest challenges that I am grateful for is adapting to leadership. Every new leader brought a different style, which was difficult at first. But it made me more adaptable and taught me to ask questions before jumping into tasks.

Now, if someone says, “Knock a hole in that wall,” I ask, “Why? What’s the goal?” That mindset has prepared me for the future.

All of these lessons make me feel ready to run my own photography business someday. Even after ASU, I’ll be able to do what I love. I hope to open a small business on Thursdays and Fridays where I can mentor other photographers, just like someone once did for me.

Is there an individual at ASU who made an impact on your life?

Dr. Brenda Tiller played a big role in where I am today. She was the Assistant to President Black and first met me during a live WALB broadcast. She recommended me to Dr. Black, and I owe her for believing in me.

Even now, we stay in touch. She still says, “I don’t regret asking you to come over here, not for one minute.” Her belief in me then, and even now, means a lot. ASU has taken me places I never thought I’d go, from New York to California. Being a country boy at heart, those experiences have been life-changing for me. 

What keeps you coming to work every day?

When people say thank you, and I realize that someone’s been noticing the hard work even when I didn’t know it, that keeps me going.  

I had a call recently from an alum asking for some assistance. I asked why they called me, and they replied, “I know you’re knowledgeable, and you can get me some answers.” I didn’t even know how they got my number, but I was happy to help, and the moment stuck with me.

Not many people really know it, but I’m a shy person. I have nothing against anyone; I just appreciate when people are genuine. That’s why I do my best to be there for others. I make sacrifices, but I truly enjoy my job and helping others.

What is the best part of your job?

I’m a private person, but I enjoy meeting people. That’s what I loved at WALB and it’s what I still love about my job now. Every day you meet someone new, and it’s like networking, but on a deeper level. Because of that, I take pride in how I carry myself as a man, as an African American, and as someone who wants others to know that I care.

What is something that you enjoy as a hobby that people might not know about you?

I love fishing and I am a motorcycle addict. I grew up in the country, and back then you could do just about anything, so I learned to ride when I was five years old and got my first motorcycle. I’ve had one for basically all my life, and I love my parents for making that possible for me. Growing up, I never went a year without one.

My prize motorcycle that I have now is a Can-Am Spyder. It’s my first three-wheeler, and I got it after knee surgery when my doctor recommended something easier on my joints.

Also, a lot of people don’t know, but I am a deacon at my church. My faith is very important to me. There is not a Sunday that goes by that I don’t attend. I was raised in church and growing up in a time when segregation still existed, it was the only place where everyone felt equal.

I remember going to places like the doctor’s office, outside of it everyone was friendly, but once you went in you went your separate ways. It was like you didn’t know each other, all because of your color. Church was never like that. It was a safe place for me, and still is. That is why I always make time to go.

When you think about moving on from ASU one day, what will you miss the most?

I will miss all the different faces that I get to see throughout the day. ASU has been a big part of my life for a long time, and the students, faculty, and staff have all played a role in my journey.

Eventually I’ll turn the page to a new chapter in my life, but for now, I’m just grateful to be a part of this one.

Reginald Christian’s story stands as a powerful reminder of what makes Albany State truly special. It is not just the buildings, events, or traditions, but the people who quietly and faithfully bring them to life. Through his lens, he has captured decades of ASU history, but it’s his humility, dedication, and unwavering love for the university that leave the most lasting impression.

Reginald’s journey from a determined student balancing work and classes to a campus fixture known for his kindness and service, reflects the resilience and pride that define the Golden Ram spirit.

Although this series concludes for the summer, the stories and individuals it has honored continue to shape the heartbeat of this institution. In every photograph, every memory, and every life touched, the individuals on the Albany State University Campus continue to be stewards of a legacy brand and champions of excellence in higher education.