As part of Samford University’s commemoration of the 50th anniversary of integration, the university is recognizing 29 African-American graduates with the inaugural Audrey Gaston Howard Awards during the month of February. They are representative of the more than 2,000 African American graduates who have distinguished themselves through exemplary professional achievement and civic and community service. Nominations were sought from the Samford community and the final selections were made by a representative committee of faculty, staff and alumni. The accomplishments listed with each honoree are representative of each person’s achievements and distinguished service.