The Voices & Views of ASU: James Brown Showcasing the Power of Legacy & Pride

James Brown has served as the Transfer Academic Advisor at Albany State University (ASU) for nine and a half years. Throughout his tenure, he has guided countless students, embodying the university's rich history and vibrant community. His work highlights how ASU's impact goes beyond academic success—it's about cultivating pride, mentorship, and a legacy that students can carry forward.

What initially brought you to this campus in the first place, and what made you stay?
The sense of RAMily is what drew me in. When I first visited ASU in the 8th grade, I participated in an event where I had the chance to meet the great Norman Newton, the voice of the Marching Rams Show Band. Master of ceremonies (MC) Newton brought the crowd to life-then did a split that left us all blown away. His pride in ASU was contagious, and it was one of the main reasons I chose to attend.

What has kept me here, though, is my love for ASU. As a double alumnus, I truly enjoy what I do—seeing students grow, succeed, and graduate is what drives me.

Can you describe your first memory of being on campus? What stuck with you?
Not many people know this, but I came to ASU as a transfer student. I first attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, then transferred to Darton State College, and eventually made my way to ASU. I had to go through orientation again, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it allowed me to meet so many people, including the one and only Dr. Kimberly Burgess—who truly changed my life.

I was a member of her first group of Student Orientation Leaders that she had when she first arrived at the university. She used to bring us all together often to tell us to “get it together,” lovingly correcting us and pushing us to be so much better than we thought we were.  

From that moment on, I sought her out as my mentor. As a student, I would visit her office when things got tough, and she would listen, encourage me, and send me back out to succeed. Even now, I admire her and everything she continues to do for me and for everyone around her.

When you need a break, or a moment of peace, where do you go on campus?
For me, I like to retreat to my office, lock the door, and listen to some church music for about 20-30 minutes. After that, I’m recharged and ready to go. I’ve never felt uncomfortable doing this because ASU was founded on biblical principles  created by Dr. Joseph W. Holley. It’s important to remember our history, especially as students or alumni of an HBCU. We represent something much bigger than ourselves, and I make sure to carry those principles with me in everything I do and every interaction I have.

Is there a place on campus that holds a special memory for you?
The Catherine Harnett Criminal Justice Building on the East campus holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I spent most of my time as an undergraduate psychology major. Many of the lessons I learned from one of my mentors, Dr. William Reed, have stayed with me and continue to impact me as I’ve grown.

One of the things Dr. Reed did in his teaching was address everyone as "scholar,” so I am Scholar Brown. I carry that with me today, using it with the students I work with to encourage success and instill confidence. Dr. Reed’s teachings have influenced a lot of us who now work at ASU to this day.

Has a random act of kindness ever happened to you on campus? If so, what happened?
During the spring semester, we held the Leadership in Excellence Award Ceremony. I had been nominated for an award, but I had no idea which one, so I went simply to support the event. I was completely surprised when I won the RSO (Registered Student Organization) Advisor of the Year award.

In the past, I’ve also been nominated for the C.W. Grant Legacy and Leadership Award, and in 2023, I was honored to receive the Staff Member of the Year Award. These recognitions have truly touched my heart and remind me that, even when we think our hard work goes unnoticed, someone is always paying attention. I always tell people, “Your gift will make room for you, and the right people will notice.”

If you could bottle up one feeling or moment and share that with others from your time on campus, what would it be and why? It would be the moment I graduated from Albany State with my bachelor’s in psychology. As a first-generation student, that moment reminded me that no matter the obstacles, anything is possible.

I still remember the pressure of passing a 100-question exit exam right after Spring Break—but with support from Dr. Reed, many of us made it through. Now, my degrees hang in my office as daily motivation—for me and for every student who needs to know they can achieve it too.

If you could change one thing, while keeping the heart of the campus intact, what would it be and why?
I want students to truly appreciate the rich heritage of Albany State University. ASU pride runs deep in my family—with over 20 alumni, including a former Miss ASU, a past SGA president, and my cousin, Dr. Titus Brown, who wrote the university’s Centennial History.

Though I once had my sights set elsewhere, meeting Mr. Newton changed my path—and deepened my connection to ASU. We’re walking in the footsteps of trailblazers like Dr. Holley. It’s vital that we honor that legacy, take pride in our university, and recognize that we’re helping shape its future for the next generation.

James Brown is a scholar who embodies the true spirit of Golden Ram pride, demonstrating that Albany State University is committed to excellence and inspiring a future that everyone can be proud of.