MONTGOMERY, AL — On Thursday, July 31, 2025, Governor Kay Ivey delivered remarks at the Alabama Goes to College: Direct Admissions Initiative press event, held at the Capitol Auditorium in Montgomery. The event marked a significant step in expanding access to higher education for Alabama high school seniors.
The Direct Admissions Initiative aims to streamline the college admissions process by automatically admitting eligible high school seniors to participating Alabama colleges and universities, eliminating the need for a traditional application. This effort is designed to reduce barriers for students, particularly those from rural, under-resourced, or first-generation backgrounds who may face challenges navigating the college enrollment process.
Governor Ivey was joined at the event by Alabama Department of Workforce Secretary Greg Reed, Alabama Possible Executive Director Chandra Scott, Deputy Director Manisha Mishra, Postsecondary Access Strategy Manager Ciomara Angel, and Strategic Partnerships Director Kory Smalzer, among others.
According to organizers, 39 colleges and universities across the state are participating in the program, including 23 community colleges. Supporters say the initiative not only simplifies admissions but also strengthens the state’s workforce development pipeline by encouraging more students to pursue postsecondary education.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Governor’s Office, Alabama Possible, and various state agencies, with the goal of boosting enrollment and building a more skilled workforce to meet Alabama’s long-term economic needs.
