Dr. Mark A. Brown, President and CEO of Tuskegee University, addressed nearly 600 attendees at the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Luncheon, emphasizing the importance of investing in the next generation while strengthening partnerships to promote economic growth in the Wiregrass region. The event, which highlighted incoming Chair Gina Grant’s vision of “Together We Grow,” took place on October 22, 2026.
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During his speech, Dr. Brown stated, “Education should make life better for other people,” noting that Tuskegee University aims to prepare students for global challenges across various sectors, including biotechnology and public health. He introduced the Career Advancement, Research, Vision and Entrepreneurial Readiness (CARVER) BioTrain Internship Program, a collaborative effort between the City of Dothan, Tuskegee University, and the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, aimed at providing students with hands-on experiences in relevant fields.
The inaugural group of CARVER interns included students from various states, such as Trinity Ellington from Alabama, Amell Stovall IV from Texas, and Diarra Diagne from Virginia. Dr. Brown mentioned that the students expressed a desire to remain in Dothan, leading him to urge community leaders to support ongoing workforce development initiatives.
He also emphasized Tuskegee University's commitment to equipping students for successful careers, highlighting its recent designation as a Distinguished Military College by the Department of War, which recognizes its legacy in producing military leaders.
Dr. Brown took the opportunity to connect with local Tuskegee alumni, noting their continuous contributions to the region. He called on local businesses and organizations to collaborate more closely with the university, particularly in workforce readiness, as over 70% of the Class of 2026 secured employment upon graduation.
He proposed expanding the CARVER program from three to six interns by summer 2027 and suggested addressing housing challenges for student interns while creating further opportunities in the Wiregrass area.
Reflecting on Dothan's historical reliance on George Washington Carver during the boll weevil crisis, Dr. Brown pointed out the potential for today’s Tuskegee students to similarly respond to contemporary challenges. He concluded by affirming that the current generation of Tuskegee students is ready and equipped to address the pressing issues of our time.