Alabama A&M University (AAMU), the largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the state, today announced the appointment of Shannon Frank Reeves, Sr. as Vice President of Government Affairs and External Relations.

Reeves will oversee all federal, state, and local lobbying efforts for AAMU government affairs, military affairs, civic engagement, and community affairs. As the lead advocate for AAMU in Washington, DC, Reeves is charged with the successful management of active engagement with legislative bodies and regulatory agencies in pursuit of support for the university’s research agenda and infrastructure needs.

“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,” said AAMU President Dr. Daniel K. Wims.

Since 2022, Reeves has served as Associate Vice President in the Office of Government Affairs at the university. His efforts have led to historic increases in state appropriations in addition to increased federal support for university research and infrastructure.

With over 25 years of experience in American politics, civil rights, and public policy advocacy, Reeves has proven to be a high-level problem solver. His unique ability to collaborate with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents to support the legislative priorities of the university is commendable.

Reeves is 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, along with a Master of Public Administration and Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Grambling State University of Louisiana.