Alabama A&M University recently announced the appointment of Shannon Frank Reeves, Sr. as the Vice President of Government Affairs and External Relations, according to a statement obtained by HBCU Pulse. In his new role, Reeves will be responsible for overseeing all federal, state, and local lobbying efforts related to government affairs, military affairs, civic engagement, and community affairs at AAMU.
As the lead advocate for AAMU in Washington, DC, Reeves will play a crucial role in managing active engagement with legislative bodies and regulatory agencies. His primary focus will be to garner support for the university's research agenda and infrastructure needs. With over 25 years of experience in American politics, civil rights, and public policy advocacy, Reeves brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new position.
AAMU President Dr. Daniel K. Wims spoke about the hire in the statement, saying, “Mr. Reeves’ appointment to Vice President, secures our voice and placement in federal, state, and local communities. His professional network on both sides of the political aisle has proven to position us for coalition building as we plan for continued growth to secure our path in the development and implementation of advocacy and legislative priorities. He is the consummate professional and poised to manage our first-ever Division of Government Affairs and External Relations. His wealth of political knowledge and strategy will be beneficial to the success of our institution.”
Reeves is currently a Doctoral Candidate (ABD) in the Department of Political Science at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. He holds a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Alabama, as well as a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Grambling State University of Louisiana.
Prior to accepting this position, Reeves served as the Associate Vice President in the Office of Government Affairs at Alabama A&M since 2022. During his tenure, the institution saw historic increases in state appropriations and enhanced federal support for university research and infrastructure.