American Idol” Judges Take A Trip Down Memory Lane At Idol University (Exclusive)

In an exclusive American Idol promo, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood visit American Idol University

In a clip premiering exclusively with PEOPLE on Wednesday, Dec. 31, the singing competition show judges are welcomed to Idol University by longtime host Ryan Seacrest .

⁘Look at all of these superstars that have graduated from Idol-U,⁘ Underwood, 42, says, as the camera shows framed photos of Idol alums like Kelly Clarkson , Jennifer Hudson and Jamal Roberts .

At one point, a display labeled ⁘American Idol by the Numbers⁘ is shown, showcasing the show's awards and platinum records earned.

⁘What an incredible amount of lives that have changed,⁘ Bryan, 49, says as he gazes at the displays.

⁘And hairstyles,⁘ the ⁘Before He Cheats⁘ singer adds, before a framed wall of Seacrest's hair evolution is shown.

At another point, the judges approach what they think is a wax figure of Clay Aiken , whom Bryan calls ⁘one of the greats.⁘ Then, Aiken startles them when he whips his head around and winks at the judges.

⁘American Idol class of 2026 is in session,⁘ Underwood says joyfully, before a teaser of the upcoming season plays.