BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Alabama’s public colleges and universities are gearing up for College Colors Day, with representatives from across the state gathering to greet Gov. Kay Ivey in front of the Capitol Thursday.
Ivey delivered her proclamation recognizing Sept. 4 as College Colors Day, a nationwide event celebrating and promoting the traditions and spirit of the university experience. Alumni, faculty, staff, students and fans are encouraged to wear their college colors in recognition of the day.
Thursday’s event featured mascots from each of the 14 public universities along with members of Auburn University’s marching band, who welcomed Ivey to the podium.
The event was hosted by the Alabama Higher Education Partnership, which represents more than 180,000 students, faculty, staff and administrators across all 14 universities. The Partnership’s mission is “to communicate the value of universities in bettering the lives of every Alabamian.”
Executive Director Gordon Stone said the state’s 14 public universities help students “achieve their dreams.”
“With a more than $27 billion collective impact on Alabama, universities are powerful drivers for the economy of the state through innovation, research, and top-tier education,” he said.
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Beyond their economic impact, the Partnership pointed to the long-term financial value of a college degree for students.
The Partnership said in a news release that college provides more than an education – “they’re a life-changing investment.”
“National data supports this – those with a bachelor’s degree can expect to earn $1 million more over the course of their lives than those with lower levels of education,” according to the release.
The proclamation comes as campuses across Alabama are once again filling with students beginning – or continuing – their own college experiences.
The fall semester is now underway, with social media feeds across the state filling with posts about move-ins, first days and classes starting.