This year’s attendees included participants from the Montgomery Area Chamber Fuel AL River Region program, the City of Montgomery Mayor’s Internship Program, and AUM’s interns—reflecting a strong ecosystem of collaboration across education, government, and industry.
The morning began with remarks from Dr. Carl Stockton, Chancellor of AUM, who encouraged students to take full advantage of the momentum they’ve built this summer. “It doesn’t make a difference what university you attend,” he said. “What matters is what you do with the skills you’ve gained. Your hard work, dedication, and work ethic will set you apart.”
Dr. Stockton shared a personal story of his daughter’s journey from intern to senior manager at Deloitte, reinforcing how internships can be true launching pads when paired with persistence and character.
A Keynote Rooted in Grit & Faith
The highlight of the morning came from Marquis Forge, founder and CEO of Eleven86 Real Artesian Water, whose keynote address moved and motivated the room.
Forge, raised in the small rural town of Ville, Alabama, shared his powerful journey from childhood learning challenges to collegiate athlete, engineer, entrepreneur—and ultimately, a promise-keeper to his hometown. After being turned down by 18 banks and building a company from scratch, his perseverance paid off: Eleven86 Water now produces over 22 million bottles annually and has become a symbol of rural innovation. “Internships are about building bridges,” Forge said. “And one day, you’re going to need those bridges to cross back over. Don’t forget where you came from—and remember that grit, passion, and obedience matter more than shortcuts.”
Honoring Excellence: Interns of the Year
The event also recognized two Outstanding Interns of the Year, selected from a competitive pool of students who exemplified initiative, professionalism, and leadership:
- Hannah Parker, a recent graduate of Auburn University, stood out during her internship at CB&S Bank. Described as intuitive and analytical, she quickly became a valued part of the team—and now has an opportunity to continue her career there as a credit analyst.
- Dalton Daniels, a Troy University graduate pursuing his master’s in accounting, completed three internships with Jackson Thornton in tax, audit, and consulting. A Fuel AL alum, he’s not only made a lasting impression at his firm but has also planted roots in the region—purchasing a home in Prattville.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Sheron Rose, Executive Vice President of External Affairs at the Montgomery Area Chamber, who looked out at the interns and said: “The future looks extremely positive. And it’s in your hands. Take what you’ve learned through these internships and become the men and women who will make a difference in our community.” She also left them with a timeless quote from Dr. Benjamin Mays: “Just a tiny little minute—but your entire future is in it.”
What This Event Represents
The 2025 Internship Breakfast wasn’t just a closing celebration. It was a call to action—a moment to recognize the pipeline of talent growing right here in the River Region, and to encourage these emerging leaders to stay connected, stay invested, and stay bold.
Whether returning to campus or launching careers, the interns of 2025 leave with a deeper understanding of their value, their voice, and their place in Alabama’s future.
View images from today’s event.
