Community leaders joined Albany State University students, faculty and staff for a groundbreaking ceremony Friday, Aug. 20, for two new construction projects. Participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new student center are (from left) James Oliver, director of Facilities Management; Helen Black, former ASU first lady; Reuben King, Mr. Royal Gentleman; Ali’Yah Arnold, Miss ASU; Xavier Jones, vice president, Student Government Association; Ashlee Fogle, president, SGA; Andrew J. Reid, Sr., ADICA; Dr. Everette J. Freeman, ASU president; Greg Hylick, president, ASU National Alumni Association; State Rep. Carol Fullerton; Kenneth Cutts representing U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop; State Rep. Winfred Dukes; Clifford Porter, vice president for Institutional Advancement; Larry Wakefield, vice president for Fiscal Affairs; Gwinetta Trice, director, Student Activities; Bonisha Porter, director of Housing and Residence Life; Sam the Ram; Dr. Willie Adams, mayor, City of Albany; Jeff Sinyard, Dougherty County Commission; State Rep. “Coach” Earnest Williams.

Breaking ground on Friday, Aug. 20, for two new residence halls at Albany State University are (from left) Sam the Ram; Clifford Porter, vice president for Institutional Advancement; Helen Black, former ASU first lady; Larry Wakefield, vice president for Fiscal Affairs; Xavier Jones, vice president, ASU Student Government Association; State Rep. Winfred Dukes; the Rev. John A. Severson, pastor, Union Baptist Church; Ashlee Fogle, president, SGA; Dr. Everette J. Freeman, ASU president; Dr. Willie Adams, mayor, City of Albany; Kenneth Cuts representing U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop; State Rep. Carol Fullerton; Greg Hylick, president, National Alumni Association; Gwinetta Trice, ASU director of Student Activities; Ali’Yah Arnold, Miss ASU; Jeff Sinyard, Dougherty County Commission; State Rep. “Coach” Earnest Williams; Reuben King, Mr. Royal Gentleman; James Oliver, director of Facilities Management; Bonisha Porter, director of Housing and Residence Life.