Albany State University (ASU) President Dr. Robert Scott welcomed faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members to the inaugural President’s Lecture Series: Foundations for the Future. The new series, hosted in partnership with the ASU Strada Scholars, is designed to bring thought leaders to campus who will inspire, challenge, and prepare the ASU community for success in an ever-changing world.

The inaugural keynote speaker was The Honorable Judge Penny Brown Reynolds, an Emmy-nominated television host, author, ordained pastor, and the first African American woman to serve as the Governor’s Executive Counsel in Georgia. Judge Reynolds spoke on the topic, “Lead Before You’re Hired: Building Leadership and Workforce Readiness.”

Sharing personal stories from her distinguished career in law, government, ministry, and media, she reminded students that every job is preparation for the next opportunity. Judge Reynolds shared powerful lessons on the power of work, the gift of leadership, and the courage to keep dreaming. She encouraged students to view every assignment—no matter how small—as preparation for their next opportunity, emphasizing that “how you do the small things determines how well you’ll handle the big things.”

Throughout her address, Judge Reynolds provided practical insights into workforce readiness in changing times, reminding students that employers are seeking resilience, adaptability, communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and emotional intelligence, in addition to strong academic preparation.

She also stressed that leadership begins before employment and is grounded in service, intellectual curiosity, and authenticity. Her advice resonated deeply with students, especially the reminder to “never come to have a job—come to do one.” She reminded students that while a degree may open doors, their attitude and professionalism will keep them in the room.

Importantly, Judge Brown Reynolds underscored the role of education in shaping opportunity. “Education is the foundation for your future,” she said. “You can’t walk through the door of opportunity if you’re not prepared.”

The evening concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where students asked questions about professional growth, leadership among peers, authenticity in the workplace, and overcoming stereotypes. Judge Reynolds shared candid, motivational advice, encouraging students to lead with courage, intellectual curiosity, and a spirit of service.

Dr. Scott reflected on the launch of the series, saying, “The Foundations for the Future lecture series is about preparing our students and community for leadership in every sphere. Judge Brown Reynolds set a strong foundation for what this series will mean moving forward.”

The President’s Lecture Series will continue throughout the academic year, featuring distinguished speakers who will provide insight and tools for building brighter futures.