Alabama A&M University will host the culminating event of its 150th Anniversary observance on Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 5:30 p.m. at the AAMU Event Center. The Sesquicentennial Closing Ceremony marks the conclusion of a yearlong commemoration of the institution’s founding and its enduring impact as Alabama’s largest Historically Black College or University. The campaign was designed to honor the University’s rich heritage and bold future, anchoring a milestone year rooted in reflection, achievement, and renewed purpose.

Central to the anniversary celebration is the ambitious effort to generate $150 million in public and private support for scholarships, STEM capacity building, and long-term campus improvements. A key component of that initiative is the drive to raise $15 million from individual donors, a total that has reached $10 million. Throughout the anniversay year, AAMU has also hosted Torchbearer Receptions bringing together alumni, supporters, and friends in cities across the country. After surpassing the initial $1 million goal, the Torchbearer Campaign has raised $3,095,618 to date. The University honored Torchbearers during a dedicated ceremony held during Homecoming Week.

The Closing Ceremony festivities will begin earlier in the afternoon with the Uncle Nearest Barrel Silent Auction at 3:00 p.m. at the AAMU Event Center. The auction offers supporters a rare opportunity to own a distinctive piece of University history through exclusive “Rich Heritage” and “Bold Future” commemorative bourbon barrels. The partnership between Alabama A&M – founded by former slave Dr. William Hooper Councill – and Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey reflects a meaningful connection to Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African American master distiller. Founded in 2017 by Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest has become the most-awarded bourbon brand in the world, with products available nationwide and in 12 countries. Supporters can take part in the silent auction here.

A second silent auction will feature the commissioned artwork of internationally renowned artist Charles Bibbs, whose original AAMU Sesquicentennial art pieces will be unveiled during the evening program. This auction provides supporters and collectors with an opportunity to engage in the University’s historic milestone while acquiring a rare work by one of the nation’s most celebrated artists. Bibbs is a master of contemporary African American fine art, known for blending realism and abstraction to portray narratives of resilience, identity, and cultural heritage. His collaboration with Alabama A&M reflects an artistic tribute to the University’s 150-year journey and its aspirations for the future. Following the ceremony, the artwork will be available in several formats, including limited-edition remarques, museum-quality giclée prints, and accessible offset editions. Proceeds from the artwork will directly support scholarships, campus enhancements, and mission-driven University priorities.

At 4:30 p.m. the lighting of the William Hooper Councill Eternal Flame Memorial will be held on The Hill. Conceived as a lasting tribute to the University’s founder, the memorial honors Councill’s pioneering work in expanding educational opportunity for formerly enslaved people and his profound influence on American education. Though Dr. Councill and his wife Maria are entombed on the campus hillside, the Eternal Flame will bring renewed prominence to his legacy. The public is invited to gather at The Block to witness the official lighting ceremony.

The 150th Anniversary Closing Ceremony stands as a testament to Alabama A&M University’s evolution from its founding on a northern Alabama hillside to its position today as a nationally recognized institution of higher learning. As the University concludes its sesquicentennial year, the celebration reaffirms a legacy shaped by perseverance, innovation, and community – a legacy poised to guide AAMU into its next century and beyond.

There is still time to join the campaign. Learn more at Alabama A&M University's 150th Anniversary Campaign.