UA Joins Other Public Universities for Montgomery Events Supporting Higher Ed

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama will join public universities from throughout the state in demonstrating support for higher education at two special events planned for March 4-5 in Montgomery.

Activities begin March 4 with the Higher Education Partnership, an advocacy group for Alabama’s 13 public, four-year universities, hosting the Alumni Leaders’ Advocacy Banquet. This informative dinner is designed to focus on the specific legislative issues of importance to state universities.

The 2009 Alumni Leaders’ Advocacy Banquet will present a comprehensive review of the legislative environment facing the state’s public universities as they advocate for support for higher education. Presenters will include Dr. William Meehan, president of Jacksonville State University and chair of the University Presidents Council; Marcus Paramore, chair of the Council of University Governmental Affairs Representatives and Gordon Stone, executive director of the Higher Education Partnership. The night’s program will include a senate panel with Senators Jim Preuitt, Jabo Waggoner and Bobby Singleton as well as Dave Stewart, chief of staff of the Governor’s office.

“Participation at this event is a great way to learn more about the important issues facing our universities and how to support advocacy efforts. We encourage alumni and friends of The University of Alabama and all public universities in the state to get involved,” said Pat Whetstone, UA director of alumni affairs.

The banquet will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Terrace Ballroom of the Capital City Club in Montgomery. The cost for registration and dinner is $50 and includes membership in the Higher Education Partnership. To register, contact Diane Causey, Higher Education Partnership, at 334/832-9911 or causey@higheredpartners.org.

The following morning, March 5, the Higher Ed Day Rally will begin at 11 a.m. at the Alabama State House. UA faculty, staff, students and alumni will gather at the State House steps with fellow university supporters from Alabama’s 13 public, 4-year universities, to join as one voice for higher education. The rally will feature guest speakers including political and student leaders as well as other university personnel; university bands from around the state will perform throughout the event; and, a complimentary lunch will be served. Lunch tickets are free and can be downloaded from the Higher Education Partnership Web site a week prior to the event. For more information, call 334/832-9911.