Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr. (pronounced hugh-guinea) has spent his career shaping minds, transforming institutions, and championing diversity in STEM. As the 11th president of Alabama A&M University, he has led the institution for over a decade with a deep commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth.
A proud alumnus of South Carolina State University, Dr. Hugine earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics before pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education/Institutional Research from Michigan State University. His academic foundation and experience have laid the groundwork for a career defined by impact, leadership, and the power of education to uplift communities.
Making a Difference, Leaving a Legacy
From a young age, Dr. Hugine was inspired by the world of education. Following in the footsteps of his mother, who was a teacher, he majored in math education and began his career teaching high school math in Beaufort, South Carolina. But his passion for education would soon take him beyond the classroom—to the helm of some of the country’s most respected HBCUs.
Throughout his leadership at Alabama A&M, Dr. Hugine has been guided by a simple yet powerful philosophy: students should seek institutions that support them not just academically, but socially and civically. He believes success is not static; it is a process of continuous improvement. “Success,” he says, “is about setting a goal, working toward it, and bringing it to fruition. It’s a moving target—different for every challenge, but always rooted in growth.”
Reflecting on his 12+ years at Alabama A&M, Dr. Hugine is proud of how the university has evolved. “Success,” he says, “is leaving a place better than you found it. That’s what I believe we’ve accomplished here.”
Faith: The Cornerstone of Optimism
Dr. Hugine’s life and leadership are grounded in unshakable faith and optimism. “With faith the size of a mustard seed, you can move mountains,” he says—a quote that perfectly captures his belief in the power of perseverance.
He views challenges not as obstacles, but as catalysts for creativity and resilience. “Roadblocks,” he explains, “push us toward innovation. You can’t avoid them, but you can choose how you respond.” This mindset has been particularly vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, which he believes revealed both the resilience of the university and the transformative power of adversity.
Dr. Hugine emphasizes that challenges, when viewed through the lens of optimism, can lead to meaningful growth. “Never let a hurdle go to waste. If you approach life as a glass half full, you’ll find strength and opportunity even in the toughest moments.”
Technology: A Transformative Force in Education
Dr. Hugine’s background in mathematics gives him a unique perspective on the role of technology in learning. He recalls the early days of using slide rules and printed tables for complex calculations—tools that have since been replaced by advanced software and high-speed computing.
Under his leadership, Alabama A&M invested heavily in educational technology well before the pandemic. “It wasn’t just a choice—it was a necessity,” he notes. These investments positioned the university to quickly adapt to hybrid and asynchronous learning models when the global health crisis hit.
“The pandemic challenged us to maintain the same level of quality in education,” he reflects. “Because of our prior commitments, we were prepared. And now, we’re exploring new modes of online learning that might have taken years to adopt otherwise.”
The Role of a University President
Being a university president, Dr. Hugine says, is about much more than administration. “You give up your individuality when you become a president. Whether you’re in the office or at a grocery store, you’re always representing the institution.”
His responsibilities range from strategic planning and public engagement to managing relationships with faculty, students, alumni, and state stakeholders. “A president is an ambassador,” he explains. “You must always advocate for the university—its mission, its people, and its potential.”
He offers wise counsel to future leaders: “If you want people to love the university, not just you, lead in a way that reflects the values and aspirations of the institution.”
A Journey Through Education
Before joining Alabama A&M, Dr. Hugine served as president of South Carolina State University, his alma mater. His diverse background in education also includes roles as Interim Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Assistant VP for Academic Affairs, professor, researcher, and high school math teacher.
Appointed as Alabama A&M’s president in 2009, he brought decades of experience, national recognition, and a strong vision for the future. His tenure has been marked by growth, resilience, and a commitment to innovation.
Work Hard, But Live Fully
While he’s known for his dedication to work, Dr. Hugine is a firm believer in balance. “You have to know when to turn it off,” he says. “If you don’t build time for rest and relaxation, you risk becoming less effective.”
He carves out time for hobbies, including his favorite television shows, and is deliberate about not taking work home. “I’ve learned to compartmentalize. There’s value in unplugging.”
The most important member of his team, he says, has always been his wife, Abbiegail Hugine. A passionate partner and advocate for student success, she has championed university initiatives and strengthened community engagement throughout their journey.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter
As Dr. Hugine prepares for retirement at the end of this year, he looks forward to spending more time traveling with his wife and enjoying their growing family—including their son Andrew III, daughter Akilah, and three grandchildren.
But his commitment to education remains strong. “I want to see education evolve to meet learners where they are,” he says. He envisions a future where instruction is individualized, on-demand, and accessible to all learning styles—through technologies like virtual learning and AI.
“There’s leadership in place to carry that vision forward at Alabama A&M,” he affirms. “And I have full confidence in the university’s bright future.”
A True Educational Trailblazer
Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr.’s legacy is one of faith, service, and transformation. From mathematics to modern leadership, from tradition to technology, he has led with vision and heart. As he passes the baton to the next generation, his impact continues to resonate—proof that true leadership is not just about holding a title, but about making a lasting difference.
“Make a difference. Leave a legacy.” — Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr.
