Founders day, courtesy of Britton Wade, photographer By Madison Smith, Managing editor
The University of Montevallo is home to many unique traditions, one of the most prominent being Founders’ Day.
Each year, on the second Thursday of October, the university celebrates Founders’ Day by honoring its seniors and the journey that lies ahead as they approach graduation. Founders’ Day also seeks to celebrate the founding and continual growth of UM, from its beginnings as Alabama Girls’ Industrial School to where it’s at now.
The ceremony was held in Palmer Hall, with university faculty donning their academic regalia and leading the soon-to-be graduates into the hall to be recognized. During the event, students don their graduation robes for the first time.
This year marked UM’s 128th Founders’ Day ceremony at the University of Montevallo.
The ceremony began with a processional played by Dr. Laurie Middaugh, featuring selections from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Afterwards, President John W. Stewart III delivered a welcome address.
The ceremony also featured a performance by senior class vocalist Rosalyn Mwenja, class of 2025.
The keynote address was delivered by the Honorable Adriene Moffett Powell, class of 2003. During her own time at UM, Powell was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Student Government Association, the Montevallo dance team and the Purple Side cheer squad.
Powell spoke about the challenges and opportunities awaiting the graduates and offered words of encouragement.
“Stand strong and thrive in the face of adversity,” she advised. “You already have the keys to success.”
The speech was followed by a similarly resonant piece from the university concert choir, conducted by Dr. Melinda Doyle.
After the choir, the faculty and administration recognized several outstanding faculty members for their contributions to the university. The ceremony concluded with a recessional, as the seniors exited the hall, symbolically stepping toward their future.
