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Muscle Shoals Swampers from Fame Studio in Muscle
Shoals. The group and their predecessors have partnered
with the likes of Aretha Franklin, The Allman Brothers,
and The Rolling Stones to record some of the world’s best
known music. The Fellows enjoyed the music and hearing
the “behind the scenes stories” of the sessions.
Saturday’s program opened with thoughtful remarks by
President O’Donnell as to the state and mission of the
College. President O’Donnell emphasized the need to
protect the independence of the judiciary. Zella Palmer,
author and professor at Dillard University, then spoke
on the evolution of creole cuisine and the impact creole
cuisine has had on the culture of the state. Following
Ms. Palmer, the topic shifted from food to college sports.
A panel, moderated by Fellow Chris King, included
Fellow Finis St. John, Chancellor of the University, of
Alabama Systems, Matt Self, Assistant Athletics Director,
Compliance, University of Alabama, and Rich McGlynn,
Executive Associate Athletics Director, Compliance,
Auburn University. The panel provided candid insight
into the impact of the rule changes by the NCAA for
name, likeness and image of a college athlete. The
discussion raised many questions from the audience
regarding potential booster influence, financial disparity
among institutions to support college athletics, and lack
of uniform rules of enforcement. The panel also addressed
the impact of conference realignment and expansion of the
College Football Playoffs. Fortunately, the discussion did
not address Georgia’s win over Alabama, despite prodding
from the Georgia Fellows.
Saturday’s program ended with comments by former
United States Senator Doug Jones. Senator Jones was
named by the Biden administration to act as the Sherpa for
the Supreme Court nomination of the Honorable Ketanji
Brown Jackson. Senator Jones provided a detailed insight to
the nomination process, his introduction of Judge Jackson
to the members of the Senate, and ultimately, Senator Jones’
description of the successful vote in favor of Judge Jackson.
Senator Jones’ thoughts ended with the observation of the
need for members of Congress to work together. The Tri-
State program concluded with Gaynor St. John thanking
all those attending and reminding everyone of the 2024
Tri-State Meeting to be hosted by the Georgia Fellows.
The Alabama Fellows appreciate the help of the College
Administrative Staff and particularly, Suzanne Alsnauer.
Robert P. Mackenzie III
Birmingham, AL
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