Celebrations for the 84th Amazon Magic City Classic, presented by Coca-Cola, commenced on Thursday, October 23, at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex with the Encompass Health Kickoff Luncheon. This vibrant event brought together students, alumni, and community members, many of whom proudly represented Alabama State University (ASU) and Alabama A&M University (AAMU) in their respective school colors. The atmosphere was charged with spirited chants and playful rivalries as attendees looked forward to the highly anticipated football game scheduled for Saturday.
Hosted by Hot 107.7’s Dreka Ray, the luncheon underscored a weekend steeped in tradition and the enduring spirit of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin opened the event, sharing how his own HBCU experience significantly influenced his leadership journey. “What we do for our students is extremely important,” he remarked, emphasizing the impact of HBCUs on individual lives and communities as a whole.
The luncheon also showcased the growing support from various sponsors, including Huntsville Utilities, Chick-fil-A Birmingham, and Mielle Organics. The Magic City Classic has evolved beyond a mere football game, now serving as an economic and cultural powerhouse for Alabama. Fred McPherson, Amazon’s Director of Operations, highlighted this shared vision, stating that the event reflects Amazon’s commitment to enhancing community, education, and success.
Leaders from both universities took the stage to celebrate their institutions. ASU’s SGA President DeJuan Trotman proudly reported the Hornets’ progress, including new facilities and significant fundraising achievements, while AAMU SGA President Onyebuchi Jessica Egwu celebrated the Bulldogs’ strong enrollment numbers.
The keynote address by Dr. DeMark Liggins, National President and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and an alumnus of ASU, resonated deeply. He emphasized the unique qualities that HBCUs embody, stating, “HBCUs carry pain, perplexity, and pride. We carry an unbreakable belief in ourselves and in each other.”
Both university presidents, Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. of ASU and Dr. Daniel K. Wims of AAMU, encapsulated the spirit of the event—balancing rivalry with mutual respect. Ross surprised attendees with a $10,000 donation from ASU towards AAMU’s ambitious $150 million fundraising campaign, reinforcing the importance of supporting each other in their shared mission.
The event was a reminder of the collaborative spirit among HBCUs, as Ross concluded with a heartfelt message: “We talk a little trash for a little bit, but for the other 364 days, all of us are family, and we have to work together because when one HBCU rises, we all rise.”
Ultimately, the luncheon served as not just a kickoff to the sporting event but as a celebration of heritage, community, and the legacy of HBCUs, inspiring attendees and emphasizing the collective mission to uplift one another.