September 2025 Newsletter
September 2025 Alumni Newsletter
Save the Date! AUM Day of Giving is on Thursday, September 25th, 2025
Mark your calendars! AUM Day of Giving is Thursday, September 25—a day when the entire AUM community comes together in support of what makes AUM extraordinary. From each of our colleges, to Veterans Services, to student scholarships and beyond, every gift on this day helps open doors and create opportunities for our students.
Join us on September 25 and make a difference for AUM!
AUM Excellence Takes Flight – From Alumnus to Airman
Auburn University at Montgomery alumnus Hugo Asencio Aragon took an extraordinary leap from academia to the Air Force! With a Ph.D. already in hand, Senior Airman Asencio Aragon’s path is anything but traditional—proving that service can begin at any stage of life.
While at AUM, Hugo earned his Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and a Master’s in International Relations and was an engaged, high-achieving student. He continued his academic path all the way to a Ph.D. in Political Science and taught at California State University—but his story didn’t stop there. Now serving as a Career Development Technician with the 452nd Force Support Squadron at March Air Reserve Base, Hugo brings dedication, humility, and intellect to everything he does. His story is a testament to lifelong learning, courage, and the spirit of service.
We’re proud to celebrate one of our own making an impact in and out of uniform.
Read more about his inspiring journey from the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service.
Turning Tragedy into Triumph: AUM Alum Hannah Oliver is Changing the World—One Pair of Sunglasses at a Time
On August 3, 2021, Hannah Oliver was involved in a serious car accident. When the airbag deployed, her sunglasses shattered—causing injuries that led to the loss of her right eye.
After months of recovery and multiple surgeries, Hannah (Bachelor of Business Administration – Marketing) transformed her pain into purpose by founding Blue Eye Sunglasses. Her company offers high-quality, impact-resistant lenses that are both protective and stylish. Even more, a portion of every sale supports eye research to help others affected by vision loss.
Through Blue Eye Sunglasses, Hannah is showing the world what it means to turn adversity into action—and proving that AUM alumni don’t just rise, they soar.
To support Blue Eye Sunglasses and learn more about our AUMazing Alum at blueeyesunglasses.com.
From AUM to Achieving Greatness: Tommy Jackson's Inspiring Journey
From humble beginnings in South Alabama to becoming a top financial advisor, Tommy Jackson’s journey is a testament to resilience and purpose. An AUM College of Business graduate, he’s been honored as “Business Alumni of the Year” and ranked #1 financial advisor in Alabama by Barron’s. Beyond finance, Tommy has mentored over 100 athletes, founded a record label with Billboard-charting artists, and now empowers others through his mentorship program.
Discover more about Tommy’s impactful journey at tommyjacksonofficial.com.
AUM Alumni Spotlight: Krystle Bell Saulsberry
Congratulations to Krystle Bell Saulsberry, who was recently honored as a 2025 40 Under 40 Honoree by the South Eastern Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated!
She received this prestigious recognition during the 93rd South Eastern Regional Conference, held March 13–16, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Krystle is a proud 2011 graduate of Auburn University at Montgomery, where she earned a Master of Public Administration and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Leadership.
We celebrate her achievements and leadership in the community!
AUM Alumni Spotlight: Nicholas Townsend
At the May 23rd Troy City Schools Board of Education Meeting, Nicholas Townsend was unanimously approved as the new principal at Charles Henderson Middle School!
A two-time AUM Graduate, Townsend earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of Education degrees from Auburn University of Montgomery and is currently pursuing a doctorate at Auburn.
Join us in congratulating AUM alumnus Nicholas Townsend on his new role as principal of Charles Henderson Middle School! Once a Warhawk, always a Warhawk— soar high, Mr. Townsend!
AUM Alumni Spotlight: Will Nettles
Pike County Elementary School (PCES) recently announced Will Nettles as the new assistant principal for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year!
Nettles’ journey in education began as a paraprofessional at Hillcrest High School, his alma mater. After earning his bachelor’s degree from Auburn University at Montgomery in 2018, he spent four years as a teacher and assistant girls’ basketball coach at Charles Henderson High School. He then served as assistant principal at Monroe County High School before returning to Troy, where he was the assistant principal at Troy Elementary School for the past two years.
Let’s continue to support our AUMazing educator as he takes on this leadership role for the 2025‑2026 school year!
Alumni Association Board of Directors Nominations are Now Open
Do you have a passion for Auburn University at Montgomery and a desire to help shape the future of its alumni community? The AUM Alumni Association is now accepting nominations for its Board of Directors!
This is your opportunity to give back, grow your leadership experience, and play a vital role in strengthening the bond between AUM and its graduates. Board members serve as ambassadors for the university, helping to advance alumni engagement, support student success, and promote AUM in the community and beyond.
Nominations are open through September 15, 2025.
To apply or nominate someone, please visit https://staging.aumedu.dev/alumni-board/
We’re looking for enthusiastic and committed alumni who are eager to make an impact. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a longtime supporter, your voice and experience matter.
Let your legacy of leadership begin here—apply today!
2025–2028 Alumni Professorship Nominations Open July 1
The AUM Alumni Association is now accepting nominations for the Alumni Professorship, a prestigious award recognizing outstanding AUM faculty who exemplify excellence in:
- Teaching
- Research, scholarly, or creative accomplishments
- Service to the university and community
Eligibility
Nominees must be full-time teaching faculty with 10 or more years of service at AUM.
Award Details
- Three-year, non-renewable term
- $2,500 annual salary supplement
- Award conferred at Fall Convocation
Nomination Requirements
Submit five letters of nomination by September 19, 2025 from the following individuals:
- Nominee’s Dean
- Department Head
- A Current Student
- A Former Student
- A Faculty Colleague
Letters should be no longer than two pages and include examples of the nominee’s teaching, research, service, and impact beyond the classroom. Vitae may be attached. No letters from family members will be accepted.
Submit Nominations
Send nomination letters via:
Email: alumni@aum.edu
Mail:
AUM Alumni Association
Attn: Awards Committee
75 Technacenter Dr.
Montgomery, AL 36117
Questions? Contact us at 334-244-3567 or alumni@aum.edu
Stay Connected with AUM
Got a story idea or alumni update? Let us know at alumni@aum.edu
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Visit www.aum.edu for the latest campus news and events.
Warhawk Proud, Always.
— AUM Office of Alumni Relations
