TUSKEGEE, Ala. (November 9, 2009) – Tuskegee University celebrated its annual Homecoming activities in grand fashion Nov. 5-8. Over 30,000 alumni and friends of the University flocked to the East Alabama campus for fellowship and reconnection to the historic institution.  The theme, “Honoring Tuskegee University’s Illustrious Fifth President,” was apparent during events ranging from the Miss Tuskegee Gala on Thursday to the Homecoming/Charter Day Convocation on Sunday. The week’s events honored Dr. Benjamin F. Payton, who earlier this year announced his retirement after 28 years as the leader of the institution.

Saturday’s parade, which featured a new route and new rules, rolled through the campus and the city without incident and created a great family and community gathering. President Payton served as grand marshal.

“It was one of the most organized, successful parades we’ve ever had,” Payton said. “Much is to be said of the positive community involvement, which we always embrace here at the University.”

 This was the first year both University and city officials shared a reviewing stand at the parade, which included area high schools, University students and figures, community organizations, and more.

Afterwards, the Golden Tiger football team met Stillman College on the gridiron, winning 41-14, propelling the Tuskegee team to win its fourth consecutive SIAC Conference Title during Payton’s tenure. Tuskegee’s Marching Crimson Piper band surprised Payton with an on-field tribute, which included a formation of the President’s initials, “B F P,” and a rendition of old school songs reminiscent of his 28-year presidency.

On Sunday, the University Chapel was packed for the annual Homecoming/Charter Day Convocation. The address was delivered by Tavis Smiley, host of “Tavis Smiley” on PBS and the “The Tavis Smiley Show” on PRI. Smiley is also an influential, renowned speaker and author.

“Every year we seek speakers who, through their life’s work, demonstrate quality of service in the spirit of excellence that marks Tuskegee University,” said Payton about Smiley. “He (Smiley) is one of America’s most outstanding young African-American men; he continues to be a great voice for progress.”

Smiley spoke to the audience about Tuskegee’s “Post-Payton” years ahead and how the institution and its constituents must “continue to do its part in the world,” while leading and serving with love and holding leaders accountable.

“You can’t lead our people unless you have love for our people. You can’t save our people unless you serve our people,” Smiley said. “The depth of your love defines the quality of your service.”

Smiley referred to Payton’s successful 28 years at the helm of the University, leading its transformation into one of the leading institutions of higher learning in the world. “He has led 28 years against the odds,” Smiley said, citing budget and resource challenges in higher education.

Smiley also spoke of sobering research statistics that point to a dismal future for the current African-American collegiate generation. “For the first time in 400 years, it is expected that this is the only generation that may actually do worse than its preceding generation,” he said. “This research should not define our response and roles.”

Other topics Smiley commented on included the disenfranchisement of blacks socially and economically.  He encouraged those he addressed to “aim higher” and keep their eyes on the “prize.”

“It’s all about the life you lead and the legacy you leave,” Smiley said.

After the address, Payton, on behalf of the University, presented Smiley with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

Other highlights of the Convocation included:

• The annual Alumni Merit Award was awarded to Edward Grim (Class of 1969), a contractor who volunteers construction and renovation services every summer as part of the “Adopt a Dorm” program. Payton pointed out that over the 19 years of Grim’s service, the University has saved over a half million dollars.
• The reunion classes of 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1989, 1994, 1999 and 2004 presented the University with their respective contributions. The collective total was $94,696. 81.
• Community leaders and other special guests were recognized. Among them: State Rep. Pebblin Warren; Tuskegee mayor, Omar Neal; Dr. James Earl Massey, dean emeritus of the University Chapel; and Robin Washington Banks, great-granddaughter of Booker T. Washington, the University’s founder and first president.