Huntsville and Alabama A&M: Finally Moving as One

Being a resident of Huntsville, Alabama and an alumnus of Alabama A&M University, I’ve seen both sides of the story. There was a time when the city and the university felt disconnected… Two powerful forces sharing space but not spirit. Today, that’s changing. And it’s one of the best things happening for both the city and the school.

For years, leadership from Alabama A&M, the City of Huntsville, and Madison County didn’t always work outwardly to help each other thrive. But that’s not necessarily the case anymore. Under the leadership of President Dr. Daniel K. Wims, Alabama A&M has been intentional about building bridges and cultivating relationships with local and state government, and it shows.

This new collaboration isn’t just at the top, it’s spreading throughout the community. I wear my A&M apparel often, and lately I’ve noticed something different. People: store owners, cashiers, strangers of all backgrounds have started asking me, “Did we win?” That word we means a lot. It means the city is starting to feel ownership and pride in Alabama A&M’s success.

Historically, Alabama A&M and the surrounding Huntsville area existed in the same physical space but not the same cultural one. You could feel the difference. In cities like Auburn, Tuscaloosa, Tuskegee, and Jackson, the universities are the heartbeat of the community. Their school colors, pride, and economic impact are visible everywhere, from barbershops to billboards to local politics.

At many HBCUs, there’s a strong protective instinct. We guard what we’ve built because we had to. Our culture, our paraphernalia, our traditions… They mean everything to us. But sometimes that protection can unintentionally turn into gatekeeping. We can make it hard for others, especially those who didn’t attend the school to feel like they’re part of that culture.

Every year during Homecoming, someone on social media complains about people celebrating Alabama A&M who didn’t attend. That mindset must change. We should want everyone in Huntsville to feel proud to wear maroon and white.

Look at what Alabama State University has done. They just became the first HBCU to open an on-campus YMCA, in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Montgomery. That’s a major win for community integration and visibility. A&M’s leadership has taken a similar approach, connecting sports, academics, and outreach in Huntsville.

The next step is getting everyday citizens to see Alabama A&M as Huntsville’s team, not just A&M’s team. Because when one thrives, the other does too. And for the first time in a long time, it feels like we’re finally moving as one.