MONTGOMERY, Ala. — More than 1,000 college students and representatives from the state’s 14 public universities rallied at the Alabama Capitol and State Thursday for the annual Higher Education Day.
“Alabama’s universities shape the state’s economy and must be supported,” said Gordon Stone, executive director of the Higher Education Partnership, told the crowd. “Our more than 180,000 students are valuable to the state’s thriving economy.”
Stone said those 180,000 students are not enough to meet the projected demand for jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree, highlighting Alabama’s significant potential for growth.
According to statistics provided by the Higher Education Partnership, for every $1 the state invests in higher education, more than $12.50 is returned to Alabama taxpayers.
Earlier this month, Gov. Kay Ivey introduced a $9.35 billion education budget for fiscal 2025, which is a 6.25% increase from the previous year’s $8.8 billion budget. About 25.6% of that would be directed to higher education.
Students showed enthusiasm at the event, representing their schools with school colors and chants. Many students and university leaders took the opportunity to engage with legislators, sharing their college experience and voicing support for higher education.
Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed, R-Jasper, showed his support for students.
“You are our future,” he said. “We want to do everything we can to support the universities and you individuals.”
Senate education budget committee chairman Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, challenged students to stay in Alabama after graduation.
“We want you and we need you,” Orr said.
Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, offered two pieces of advice for success after college.
“First, be kind. Second, work your butt off,” he said.