Meet the 3 newest inductees into the Alabama Academy of Honor

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — The Alabama Academy of Honor consists of 100 living Alabamians who have made great contributions to the state.

This year, three people are joining leaders like Rosa Parks and Harper Lee because of what they’ve done for Alabama.

Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. is a civil rights activist who served as a Freedom Rider and worked alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. to institutionalize non-violence.

“This kind of honor– in Alabama? I’ve been to jail in Alabama I don’t know how many times,” remarked LaFayette. “And, my life has been threatened.”

Dr. Ray L. Watts serves as the president of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He said he is proud to lead one of the largest, most comprehensive medical centers in the world.

“It’s a great honor. As you heard, a lot of distinguished Alabamians here,” said Watts. “A lot of great work on behalf of our people. And what we’re about at UAB every day is serving the people that depend on us.”

Former Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson is the first to serve three terms in his city. He said it’s gratifying to really make a difference in someone else’s life. “To be recognized that you’ve done something significant for the state of Alabama — that’s just the icing on the cake. So, I’m tremendously honored.”

Gov. Kay Ivey said all three of these honorees have served the state in different ways. “One offers unparalleled leadership and public service, another furthered life-saving medical research, while the third bravely and humbly empowered the rights of his fellow man,” she said.

According to the academy, over 260 people have been inducted since its inception in 1965.