Albany State University (ASU) hosted its Annual Faculty and Staff Conference to prepare for the upcoming Fall 2026 semester, which begins August 17. The conference, centered on the theme “Faculty, Staff & Community: Transforming the Future,” brought together university employees for two days of engagement, professional development, and strategic alignment focused on student success.

ASU will begin welcoming freshmen to campus on August 12 for RAM Success Week, setting the stage for a new academic year grounded in connection, preparation, and achievement.

In his opening remarks, President Dr. Robert O. Scott reinforced the university’s shared mission across all roles and departments.

“At Albany State University, our work is clear—recruit, retain, and progress our students to graduation. No matter your title or department, each of us plays a vital role in ensuring our students succeed. That is the work that defines us and drives us forward.” 

- Dr. Robert O. Scott, President, Albany State University

The conference opened with an energizing team-building activity that highlighted Ram pride and school spirit, setting a collaborative tone for the days ahead.

The keynote address was delivered by Pamay Bassey, an accomplished executive, educator, and speaker whose career spans higher education, Fortune 500 leadership, and artificial intelligence. Bassey most recently served as Chief Learning and Culture Officer for Kraft Heinz and has held leadership roles at BlackRock and Accenture, where she developed innovative approaches to talent and organizational learning.

Drawing from her experience, Bassey emphasized the importance of collective impact. “Individuals accomplish remarkable things, but teams and communities change the world,” she shared, encouraging attendees to embrace the “Power of We” in their daily work and leadership.

The conference also recognized outstanding contributions from faculty and staff through the annual awards program. Honorees included:

• Faculty of the Year: Kristen Hill, Nursing Instructor
• Scholar of the Year: Dr. Niamul Kabir, Assistant Professor of Natural Sciences
• Staff of the Year: Jasmine Moore, Administrative Specialist Coordinator in Criminal Justice
• Service of the Year: Dr. Anta’Sha Jones, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences
• Director of the Year: Dr. Dorene Medlin, Chair of the School of Education

Following the morning session, attendees participated in a series of professional development workshops focused on topics such as course redesign using student outcome data, high-impact teaching practices, technology tools, and innovative strategies to enhance student learning and engagement.

Faculty and staff reconvened later in the day for group discussions and closing remarks from President Scott, who encouraged employees to embrace change and remain focused on advancing the university through a student-centered lens.

In addition, faculty and staff participated in the annual Pack A Backpack community service initiative, collectively donating more than 100 backpacks filled with personal hygiene and comfort items to support victims of assault and abuse. The donations will benefit the Lily Pad SANE Center, a nonprofit organization that provides critical support services to thousands of children, adults, and families in need.

The second day of the conference included updates from senior leadership across divisions, followed by college and program meetings to further align goals and priorities for the academic year.

“This conference is an important opportunity for us to reconnect, refocus, and recommit to our shared purpose. It’s inspiring to be part of a university community that is deeply invested in both its students and its employees.” 

- Brandon Henry, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, Albany State University

As the fall semester approaches, ASU faculty and staff leave the conference energized, aligned, and prepared to support a successful academic year centered on recruiting, retaining, and graduating students.