As Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED), the world’s largest and most prestigious American health pre-professional honor society, celebrated its 100th anniversary, Samford University student Ashley Bryant found herself part of a moment that connected past, present and future generations of pre-health scholars.
Held Feb. 26–28 in Hoover, Alabama, the 2026 AED National Biennial Convention brought together nearly 300 students, advisors and health professionals from across the country to commemorate the organization’s centennial milestone.
For Bryant, a member of Samford’s AED chapter, the experience was both meaningful and accessible.
“It was a great experience, especially since it was hosted locally in Birmingham, making it very convenient and easy to navigate,” Bryant said. “The event was well organized and thoughtfully put together, which made attending both enjoyable and stress-free.”
Founded in 1926 at the University of Alabama, AED has grown into a nationwide honor society and service organization with more than 800,000 members. Its centennial celebration returned to its roots in Alabama, highlighting a century of preparing students for careers in medicine and other health professions.
While the convention featured keynote speakers, service initiatives and networking opportunities, Bryant said one of the most impactful aspects was the sense of connection among students.
“One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to connect and socialize with members from other AED chapters,” she said. “It was rewarding to meet students who share similar goals and interests.”
That shared sense of purpose reflects AED’s mission of fostering scholarship, leadership and service among pre-health students.
“Being involved in AED has provided me with a supportive and encouraging environment as a student on the pre-health track,” Bryant said. “The strong sense of community has helped reinforce my motivation to pursue a career in the health professions.”
The convention also emphasized AED’s longstanding commitment to service, with attendees participating in projects supporting communities across Alabama, including outreach efforts benefiting children in the state’s Black Belt region.
As AED looks toward its next century, students like Bryant represent the continued impact of the organization’s founding vision, equipping future health professionals with a commitment to service and community.
