TROY – Two events are scheduled to mark the unification of the Troy State University System into Troy University on July 29.

The system officially merges its Montgomery , Troy and Dothan campuses on Aug. 1 under a single accreditation. The Phenix City Campus and University College , which operates the University’s out-of-state and overseas campuses, are already accredited as part of the Troy Campus.

“This is a momentous day in the life of our University,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., chancellor. “It will signify that Troy University is a single entity with a single purpose – providing top-quality education to students who wish to excel in a globally competitive world.”

Marking the unification will be an academic convocation at the Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts in Montgomery , complete with a processional of more than 400 robed faculty, staff and students from around the world. The convocation begins at 1:15 p.m. and will be highlighted by the presentation of new University Mace, Chancellor’s Medallion and the keynote address by Dr. Jim Fisher, former president of the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education and President Emeritus of Towson University and the author of several books on education administration, including “The Power of the Presidency,” published in 1984, which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for non-fiction.

A new alma mater, written by Director of Bands Ralph Ford and former Director of Bands Robert Smith, both TROY alumni, will also debut.

The event is open to the public and guests are encouraged to be seated by 1 p.m.

A black-tie-optional gala reception will be hosted at 7 p.m. by Troy University for the University family and invited friends. Events will include introduction of special guests, remarks from the Chancellor, the playing of a new video presentation to mark the occasion and a ceremonial toast. Special music will be provided by a 20-piece band, including vocalists, composed of TROY students and alumni and led by Ray Smith of the Long School of Music.

The events of the celebration have been made possible by the generous donations of: Sodexho, Hambright, Calcagno and Downing, APAC Alabama, Inc., Architectural Interiors, LLC, Business Interiors, Capital Refrigeration Company, Inc., Capital Trailways, Colorcraft, Inc., Couch Ready Mix USA/Block USA, Datatel, Inc., Hollis and Spann Contractors, Kwik Kopy, McKee & Associates, Montgomery Advertiser , Troy Bank & Trust, and the Troy University Alumni Association.

According to Dr. Hawkins, the board of trustees decided that unification of the system was necessary to:

·         improve service to students by removing barriers to academic transfer;

·         implement shared academic standards, policies and procedures at all Troy University campuses;

·         Promote a worldwide brand identity for Troy University .

The process has been a team effort with more than 350 faculty and staff members serving on committees and work groups that have handled the detail work of unification. Much of the work will continue after the official transition date of Aug. 1, he said.