A Dedicated Alumni & Supporters Advocacy Council
Propelling the Institution's Historic Mission and Legacy
Join the movement to strengthen our public institution.
Protecting Our "Chimney"
Via advocacy, engagement, and accountability
Protecting our "chimney" via advocacy, engagement, and accountability
The J.W. Holley Legacy Council (also known as "the 1903 Council") is dedicated to political advocacy, public education, and policy engagement that advance access, equity, justice, and excellence in higher education.
Advocacy that moves decisions
We engage and challenge policymakers so laws, regulations, and funding advance the institution and the students it serves.
Education that empowers
We inform alumni, stakeholders, and the public through research, forums, and communications.
Accountability that endures
We hold institutions and policymakers accountable to public trust and founding principles.
Our "chimney" is Albany State University. The Council exists to protect it, advocating for enhancing the university beyond its current state of stagnation and repositioning it as a premier institution of higher learning.
The Chimney: Honoring Dr. Holley’s Vision
The chimney symbolism honors Dr. Joseph Winthrop Holley’s 1948 book titled “You Can’t Build a Chimney from the Top,” reflecting the importance of a strong foundation for lasting progress.
The Caroline Hall Chimney: A Lasting Symbol of ASU’s Heritage
The chimney symbolism also honors the historic Caroline Hall Chimney on Albany State University’s campus. The sole remaining structure of Caroline Hall, built in 1917, this brick landmark connects the university’s past and present.
The “1903” Inscription: Honoring ASU’s Founding
The “1903” at the base of the chimney logo honors Albany State University’s founding on April 6, 1903, as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute.
We hold institutions and policymakers accountable to the principles of access, equity, justice, and excellence, and we champion higher education as a public good accessible to all.
Accountability
We hold leadership accountable for transparent governance, ethical decision-making, and outcomes that serve students and staff.
Independent oversight
We serve as an independent watchdog, monitoring institutional practices and protecting those who speak out.
Alumni/Supporter-driven
Organized alumni and supporters voice is how we protect and elevate the institution we love.
Let's Work Together: Become a Council Plus+ Member
If you're interested in becoming a council plus+ member, complete the form with a few details about your interest. We'll review and get back to you.
Become a Council MemberWhat We Do
Four ways we defend the institution's future
Challenging Policymakers
Strategically engaging and challenging policymakers to ensure laws, regulations, and funding decisions advance access, equity, justice, and excellence in higher education, while opposing policies that undermine these principles.
Education & Awareness
Educating alumni, stakeholders, and the broader public through research, forums, and communications to raise awareness of critical higher education issues and empower informed civic and institutional engagement.
Leadership Accountability
Holding leadership accountable for transparent governance, ethical decision-making, and outcomes that align with institutional missions, public trust, and the needs of students and staff.
Watchdogs / Whistleblower Protectors
Serving as an independent watchdog by monitoring institutional practices, exposing misconduct or inequities, and protecting whistleblowers who courageously speak out in defense of integrity, fairness, and educational justice.