New credential will certify high school students for jobs in agriculture   DOTHAN – In direct response to the need for more maintenance technicians in Alabama’s multi-billion-dollar forestry, poultry and egg industries, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) is collaborating with both the Alabama Forestry Association (AFA) and Alabama Poultry & Egg Association (APEA) on a new credential that provides training to high school agriculture educators and their students. Training for Alabama’s high school agriculture teachers for the AFA’s new, industry-recognized maintenance technician credential began [...]

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — During its regular meeting on Wednesday, June 8, the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees approved Dr. Chris Cox as President of Shelton State Community College. Cox served as Interim President of the College since February. “Shelton State’s position in the state and in the academic community keeps the College poised as one of the best foundations for student success and workforce development in Alabama, so the College needs a leader like Chris to continue to strengthen [...]

On Friday, June 3, Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Charles Jones as Acting President of Bishop State Community College. His tenure begins immediately. Jones currently serves as Regional External Affairs and Workforce Manager for the Alabama Community College System. He has served for more than a decade in education in Alabama, beginning his teaching career in 2008 in building construction and also holding other roles with the Demopolis City School System. He joined [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – An additional $5 million awarded by the Alabama Legislature for dual enrollment opportunities at Alabama’s community colleges will continue to increase the number of students who benefit from college classes while still in high school. In many cases – such as with Calhoun Community College alum Lucas Hasting and Central Alabama Community College alum Katelyn Henderson – high school students are graduating with their associate degree either before or shortly after earning their high school diploma.  The additional dual enrollment [...]

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – More than $53,000 total in scholarships was announced for 48 of the Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) top scholars across the state during the 2022 All-Alabama Academic Team Recognition Program at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham – The Winfrey Hotel on Friday, April 22. The students were selected from their colleges by members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society for the students’ demonstration of academic excellence and intellectual rigor, leadership and service, and for a commitment to extending their [...]

MONTGOMERY – Alabama’s community colleges are working with the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship, hospitals and healthcare employers to meet the high demand for nurses. New rules went into effect March 17 that allow healthcare employers to enter into an apprenticeship agreement with a sponsoring community college. Students who apply and are accepted as nurse apprentices serve as employees of the healthcare facility and work alongside an experienced nurse. Nurse apprentices can continue their employment by completing their apprenticeship and passing the National [...]

BIRMINGHAM – The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center, a $10 million investment aimed at rapidly training workers for the state’s highest-demand industries, has launched its first of several industry-designed programs to help students find immediate employment. ACCS leaders, students and industry partners kicked off the Innovation Center’s opening and demonstrated some of the training at an event on Monday. The training includes short-term classes that students can start from anywhere in the state and finish with an in-person lab in a [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Thursday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Chris Cox as Interim President of Shelton State Community College. Cox has more than 25 years of higher education administration experience and currently serves as Special Assistant to the Chancellor at the Alabama Community College System. Prior to his role at ACCS, Cox served as Interim President at Northwest-Shoals Community College in Muscle Shoals, Bevill State Community College in Jasper, and Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia. “Dr. Cox has proven to be an innovative [...]

Enrollment of students pursuing academic and workforce training classes at Alabama’s community colleges increased amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Nearly 144,000 students received education or training in a community or technical college statewide. This included 101,094 students enrolled in traditional, for-credit college classes, which represented an increase of 4,700 students – or 6 percent – from Fall 2020 to Fall 2021. Among programs with the greatest enrollment increases were welding, vehicle and autobody technologies, and business. “Our numbers are continuing to show [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Kemba Chambers as  President of H. Councill Trenholm State Community College. Chambers is the first female to serve in this capacity at the college. Chambers has 25 years of higher education experience and currently serves as Interim President at Trenholm. She previously served as Interim Associate Vice Chancellor of Teaching and Learning and Chief Instructional Officer at the Alabama Community College System, and Executive Vice President and Vice President of [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced today the appointment of Dr. Jeff Goodwin as President of Northwest-Shoals Community College. Goodwin’s tenure at the college begins January 3, 2022. Dr. Goodwin’s 30 years of experience span from classroom educator to superintendent in Alabama’s public schools. He has served since 2005 as Superintendent of Oxford City Schools. “With Northwest-Shoals taking the lead on significant infrastructure improvements and community engagement, Dr. Goodwin is the right choice for [...]

MONTGOMERY – Alabama residents who are displaced, in career fields with low wages or who are new to the workforce but face barriers now have a streamlined workforce development process that helps them navigate in-demand careers. Mobilizing Alabama Pathways, or MAPs, was released this week. The skills-based workforce training program through Alabama’s community colleges and adult education providers is the result of a federal grant that creates the Alabama Workforce Stabilization Program (AWSP). AWSP provides opportunities for nearly 8,000 Alabama workers [...]

MONTGOMERY – A tuition and fee waiver program that grants Alabama’s adult education GED® recipients and Ready To Work program completers a free college class has resulted in the matriculation of more than 16,000 Alabama residents from adult education to college. Shelton State Community College student Sevide “Gloria” Adingni The Alabama Community College System established a tuition and fee waiver program in 2017 to provide a clear pathway to residents who successfully complete either program and want to advance [...]

MONTGOMERY – In an effort to encourage COVID-19 vaccination and expand access to the vaccine, Alabama’s community colleges are hosting vaccination clinics at their campuses across the state. To date, 75 clinics have been held and 32 clinics are planned in the coming weeks. “With more than 130 locations across Alabama, our 24 colleges are well-positioned to engage our communities in an effort to promote and provide the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker. “Our [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Chris Cox as Interim President of Northwest-Shoals Community College. Cox has more than 24 years of higher education administration experience and currently serves as Special Assistant to the Chancellor at the Alabama Community College System. Prior to his role at ACCS, Cox served as Interim President at both Bevill State Community College in Jasper and Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia. “Time and time again, Dr. Cox has [...]

MONTGOMERY – In response to the Legislature's expansion of opportunities that encourage a stronger employment focus for math and science teachers and other STEM-related fields in the state, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) has expanded dual enrollment scholarships to high school students who are interested in taking college-level STEM courses through their local community college. “Dual enrollment courses are a tremendous benefit to students as they not only provide a means to college credit but also allow high schoolers the [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced today the appointment of Dr. Lawrence Brandyburg as Interim President at Bishop State Community College. Dr. Brandyburg will replace Dr. Reginald Sykes, who has stepped down from the position. Dr. Brandyburg has more than 17 years of higher education experience relating to instruction, student services, and administration. He currently serves as the Executive Vice President at Bishop State. “Dr. Brandyburg’s enthusiasm for Bishop State, coupled with his wealth [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced today the appointment of Dr. Jimmy Hodges as Interim President at Calhoun Community College. Dr. Hodges’s 40 years of experience span higher education administration, manufacturing, and drafting and design technology . He currently serves as a Regional Workforce Director for the Alabama Community College System and previously served as Dean of Applied Technologies at Wallace State Community College in Hanceville. “Dr. Hodges’s familiarity with the ACCS coupled with [...]

MONTGOMERY – On Wednesday, four new members of the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees were sworn in by Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell prior to the start of their first meeting. The Board is the governing body of the ACCS. Each member was appointed by Governor Kay Ivey and confirmed by the Alabama Senate. Their terms began May 8, 2021, and will run through May 7, 2025. The new members include: J.E.B. Shell, District 1 Valerie G. Gray, [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Tuesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Kemba Chambers as Acting President of Trenholm State Community College. Chambers will replace Anita Archie who has served as Interim President since January 2, 2020. Chambers has more than 21 years of higher education experience and currently serves as the Interim Associate Vice Chancellor of Teaching and Learning and Chief Instructional Officer at the Alabama Community College System in addition to her role as Executive Vice President and Vice President of Instructional [...]

Forty-five of the Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) top scholars across the state were announced April 23, 2021. Two students from each of Alabama’s community colleges were selected by members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society for their demonstration of academic excellence and intellectual rigor, leadership and service, and for their commitment to extending their education beyond the classroom to benefit society. Members of the 2021 team were awarded more than $50,000 total in scholarships. Additional scholarships for All-Alabama Academic Team [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Coretta Boykin as President of Reid State Technical College. Boykin has served the college in various capacities for the past 17 years. Dr. Boykin currently serves as the Dean of Instruction and Workforce Development, a position she has held since 2018. Her previous roles at the college include Assistant Dean of Institutional Effectiveness, Director of Recruitment, Placement and Retention, Office Administrator, in addition to serving as an instructor. “Dr. Boykin [...]

MONTGOMERY – Together with more than 20 business and industry partners across Central Alabama, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and Jefferson State Community College announce the new industry-designed Heavy Equipment Operator program. The pilot program, which is housed at Jefferson State Community College’s Chilton-Clanton campus, addresses the need for more certified construction and heavy equipment workers for infrastructure projects statewide. The inaugural class of 12 students have completed their program and will graduate today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edhuLO0qGHM   “Alabama’s community colleges [...]

MONTGOMERY – On Wednesday, Chancellor Baker announced tuition will not increase for the 2021-2022 academic year. In addition, as a result of the declining number of reported COVID cases and an increase in the number of students, faculty and staff taking advantage of access to the COVID vaccine, the ACCS anticipates all community college campuses in the state will resume normal, on-campus operations for the Fall 2021 semester. “This year has been difficult for many Alabamians and access to education and [...]

MONTGOMERY – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Brad Newman as president of Shelton State Community College. Newman has 28 years of leadership and management experience. Prior to his appointment at Shelton State, he served as Plant Manager for ZF Chassis Systems, LLC in Tuscaloosa, one of the company’s top performing facilities in the world. Newman is also a recognized leader in the local community, serving as [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Cynthia Anthony as President of Lawson State Community College. Anthony has been serving as Interim President at the college since September 2020. Dr. Anthony has 30 years of higher education experience, recently serving as Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Success for the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and Executive Vice President and Dean of Students at Lawson State. Prior to her leadership at Lawson State, Anthony served at Bessemer State [...]

Expanded relationship leverages Blackboard’s holistic EdTech ecosystem of solutions and services  MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and Blackboard Inc. together announced today that they have expanded their relationship to improve and enhance the student experience for 11 ACCS Colleges. This will create a consistent teaching and learning platform for all students at 11 ACCS colleges through the 2024 academic year. These 11 colleges will leverage the benefits of Blackboard’s next-generation cloud learning management system (LMS), Blackboard Learn with [...]

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Adult Education Division of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) announced today the opening of the request for proposal (RFP) process for adult education providers.  Funding for such programs is made available through the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA), Title II, and the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA). Proposals are due by 4 p.m. CST Monday, April 5, 2021. Funding will be awarded on a three-year term that begins October 1, 2021. Alabama’s Adult Education [...]

Jackson, Mississippi — Jimmy Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS), has been named a Distinguished Community College State Director by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK). He will be recognized during PTK Catalyst 2021, the Society’s annual convention, broadcast live from Orlando, Florida, April 8-10. The award recognizes the contributions of heads of statewide community college associations or systems and their demonstrated support for Phi Theta Kappa throughout their district and state. Winners may receive this award only [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Jeff Lynn as President of Central Alabama Community College (CACC). Lynn has served as Acting President at the college since last June. Lynn has more than 20 years of workforce and economic development experience across several southeastern states. He brought his distinctive skillset to the Alabama Community College System in 2016 where he served as the Vice Chancellor for Workforce [...]

Alabama Community College System designated as agency to implement data quality plan Career Technical Education (CTE) at Alabama’s community colleges will be studied among those of four other states as the result of a recently awarded ECMC data quality grant. Advance CTE announced that Alabama has been selected as one of five grantees to participate in a cohort focused on improving postsecondary Career Technical Education (CTE) data quality.  The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) will serve as Alabama’s designated agency to [...]

Contracts Awarded to Blackboard Inc., Honor Lock, and Tutor.com at 24 Alabama Community College System Institutions  MONTGOMERY – At a board meeting Tuesday, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) announced their next steps in an ongoing effort to enhance the community college student experience.  The ACCS awarded three contracts that will create a consistent platform for all ACCS students through the use of a singular Learning Management System (LMS) as well as online proctoring tools and an online tutoring system across [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Tuesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Brock Kelley as President of Lurleen B. Wallace Community College (LBW). Kelley was appointed Interim President of the college in September. “Dr. Kelley’s dynamic leadership style and career-long commitment to helping students succeed makes him the ideal candidate to fill this role at LBW,” Baker said. “The faculty, staff, and students in Andalusia, Greenville, Luverne, and Opp will be well-served by Dr. Kelley’s experience in the classroom and in [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Tuesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Joe Whitmore as President of Snead State Community College. Whitmore has served as Interim President at the college since June. “Mr. Whitmore has been a committed member of the Snead State family for many years and will be a capable leader for the college moving forward,” Baker said. “The Sand Mountain community will be well-served by Joe’s decades of higher education experience and commitment to student success both inside and [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker on Wednesday named Dr. Kathy L. Murphy President of Gadsden State Community College. Murphy, who was appointed after a months-long search by a presidential committee, will begin her appointment Jan. 1, 2021. “Dr. Murphy is a visionary educator with a proven record of focusing on all aspects of the student experience, which is the leadership we aim for at every community college in our state,” Baker stated. “I am confident that Dr. Murphy’s determination [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Chris Cox as Interim President of Bevill State Community College. Cox will serve in the role until a permanent president is named at the completion of the presidential search. Cox has more than 24 years of higher education administration experience and currently serves as Interim President at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College. Prior to his role at LBW, Cox served as the Executive Director of Workforce Solutions and Innovations [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Monday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Brock Kelley as Interim President of Lurleen B. Wallace Community College. Kelley will serve in the role until a president is named at the completion of a presidential search. Kelley succeeds Dr. Chris Cox, who served as Interim President since December 2019. Kelley’s career is focused on education and workforce development, Most recently, he served as Regional Director of Workforce Development for the Alabama Community College System (ACCS). Prior [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Monday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Gregg Bennett as Interim President of Gadsden State Community College. Bennett will serve in the role until a president is named at the completion of a presidential search. Bennett has more than 35 years of workforce and economic development experience spending the majority of that time with the University of Alabama and The Alabama Technology Network (ATN). Bennett currently serves as the Center Director for the Alabama Technology Network located at [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Cynthia Anthony as Interim President of Lawson State Community College. Longtime Lawson State President Perry Ward recently announced his retirement effective August 31, 2020. Dr. Anthony has 30 years of higher education experience, most recently serving as Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Success for the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and Executive Vice President and Dean of Students at Lawson State. Prior to her leadership at Lawson State, Anthony served [...]

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) on Thursday announced its plans for reopening its campuses statewide for the Fall 2020 semester. The plans incorporate a combination of in-person, online, and hybrid instruction with a focus on the health and safety of the System’s college communities. “Alabama’s 24 community colleges have always been known for our flexibility when it comes to meeting the needs of our more than 174,000 students,” said ACCS Chancellor, Jimmy H. Baker. “With the quick and [...]

MONTGOMERY – Five of Alabama’s community colleges will pilot a private-public partnership for virtual reality education and training with JumpStartAL, a move that further projects the state toward reaching 500,000 highly skilled workers by 2025. Coastal Alabama Community College, Enterprise State Community College, Jefferson State Community College, Lawson State Community College and Shelton State Community College will serve as the first community colleges in the state to provide virtual reality training and other technology solutions through JumpStartAL. The partnership will use [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Monday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Jeff Lynn as Acting President of Central Alabama Community College (CACC). Lynn will serve in the role until a president is named at the completion of a presidential search. Lynn has more than 20 years of workforce and economic development experience across several Southeastern states. He brought his distinctive skillset to the Alabama Community College System in 2016 where he currently serves as the Vice Chancellor for Aerospace and Aviation. Prior [...]

MONTGOMERY – Alabama’s community colleges are working with the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) to provide much needed medical equipment – including ventilators – to hospitals who need them to aid patients during the coronavirus pandemic. The supplies are made available from the colleges’ simulated healthcare settings, where thousands of students who choose Alabama’s community colleges each year train for medical careers. The equipment the colleges use is the same, top-quality supply used in hospitals and healthcare facilities across the [...]

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Community College System’s April 8 Board of Trustees meeting will be held remotely to ensure compliance with all statewide health orders and for the safety of all concerned. The meeting will begin at the usual start time of 10:00 a.m. Instructions for joining the meeting are as follows: Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://zoom.us/j/213551703 For iPhone one-tap: US: +19292056099,,213551703#  or +13126266799,,213551703# For Telephone: Dial any of the following numbers to join via phone. [...]

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) announced today that online instruction will continue at all of its campuses through the remainder of the spring semester. In addition, due to restrictions on event sizes by state and federal officials, all traditional commencement activities will be postponed. “Every decision concerning the operations of Alabama’s community colleges is being made with the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and administrators at the forefront,” said ACCS Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker. “While [...]

MONTGOMERY– The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) will temporarily discontinue on-campus instruction at 23 institutions across the state for the period of March 17 – April 3. Many ACCS institutions have a scheduled Spring Break during this time and students may be asked to extend this break period. This will allow the colleges faculty, staff, and administration to develop a plan for alternative instructional efforts.  All events scheduled at the state’s community colleges during this time frame are also cancelled. While [...]

Montgomery– A full-tuition scholarship that grants current childcare professionals the opportunity to obtain certifications and degrees to best care for Alabama’s children is now available year-round. The Leadership in Child Care Scholarship, which covers students’ tuition and a number of fees required to pursue child development credentials, is now available in the fall, spring, and summer semesters at the state’s participating community colleges and Athens State University. Qualified students must be currently employed at a childcare center or family and group [...]

MONTGOMERY – On Monday, Alabama’s community colleges began their 2020 Census efforts with a kick off meeting and rally at the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Office in Montgomery. Representatives from Alabama’s 24 community colleges, state officials, and U.S. Census Bureau staff joined together to launch the community college’s Alabama Counts effort and coordinate ideas to get students, faculty, staff and community members involved with the 2020 Census. Last month, the ACCS was awarded an $80,000 grant from the Alabama Department [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Friday, December 13, Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Anita Archie as Interim President of Trenholm State Community College. Archie will serve in the role until a permanent president is named for the college. Archie’s more than 24 years of public service span municipal government, state government and higher education. She currently serves as the Deputy Director and Executive Counsel for the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA). “Ms. Archie [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the appointment of Dr. Chris Cox as Interim President of Lurleen B. Wallace Community College. Cox will serve in the role until a permanent president is named at the college. Cox has more than 24 years of higher education administration experience and currently serves as the Executive Director of Workforce Solutions and Innovations for the Alabama Community College System. Prior to his role at the ACCS, Cox served as the Assistant Superintendent for [...]

Foundation. That’s one word that nationally recognized instructors in Alabama’s community colleges use to define the core fine arts classes they teach to students. Whether you’re beginning your official training in music, theatre or art before transferring to a four-year university, or if you’re mid-level or just wanting to expand your skills, an Alabama community college is a great place to start. Did you know that Chris Vrenna, a Grammy-winning musician and former band member of Nine Inch Nails, teaches [...]

Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker recognized eight ACCS employees during the annual employee Thanksgiving luncheon on Friday, Nov. 22, for a combined 100 years of service to Alabama’s community colleges. Trish Jones, System Office Instructional Program Officer, was recognized for 30 years of service. Ginger Smith, Assistant to the Vice Chancellor, was recognized for 20 years of service. Susan Price, Vice Chancellor of System Development and ACCS Chief of Staff, and Dorothy Davis, Receptionist and GED/Private [...]

We ended #NationalTransferWeek with the Trojan Warrior Spirit at Troy University, where we met up with a recruiter and an Enterprise State Community College alum to talk about the transfer experience. Korrie Lynn James, Troy University’s Coordinator of Dual Enrollment and Transfer Recruiting, said a large number of transfer students at the Troy campus come from ESCC, Wallace Community College and Lurleen B. Wallace Community College fully prepared with a game plan to help them succeed. “We [...]

One of the coolest parts of the ACCS Communications #NationalTransferWeek road trip is the opportunity to connect with four-year university employees who first attended an Alabama community college before determining their future goals of helping students. While at Jacksonville State University we connected with interim President Don Killingsworth, a Central Alabama Community College alum. Roxanne Bailey, the university’s transfer admissions specialist, took college-level courses while in high school through dual enrollment at Snead State Community College. At the University of [...]

Part 2 of ACCS’s Communications’ National Student Transfer Week road trip took us to Gadsden State Community College and Jacksonville State University, where  students and staff gave us more information on scholarships and student life during and after community college years. Dr. Dana Davis of Gadsden State said students don’t miss out on scholarships because there are transfer scholarships available. "Students shouldn't have any concern about the transfer process. ...Our four-year institutions recognize the value of community college students and the [...]

ACCS’s Communications team is road trippin’ all week to celebrate National Student Transfer Week! We will be visiting four-year universities across the state and talking with our very own community college grads. We’ll also talk to helpful faculty and staff and get the inside scoop on scholarships, the STARS Guide, and other resources for community college students. Our trip kicked off Monday at the University of Alabama! We connected with several students and officials at the University of [...]

MONTGOMERY – A second round of scholarships will be awarded this year for 50 students to train for automotive manufacturing careers at Alabama’s community colleges. The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and Alabama Community College System have partnered to provide a total $189,000 in scholarships, as well as mentors, to a minimum of 50 students who want to pursue a technical education certificate or associate degree in the automotive manufacturing industry. The deadline to apply is Nov. 15. The first scholarship recipients [...]

MONTGOMERY – By signing an official proclamation on Monday, Governor Kay Ivey launched the Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) Clean Home Alabama initiative. Alabama’s community colleges are partnering with residents and community organizations in every county of the state for this college-led effort to help beautify the state’s natural landscapes, growing infrastructure, and expanding communities. In 2019, Clean Home Alabama will take place November 1-11. Community college students, faculty and staff will serve alongside residents and members of several community organizations [...]

MONTGOMERY – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Dr. Craig Pouncey as president of Coastal Alabama Community College. Pouncey’s appointment was unanimously approved by the board of trustees. A career educator and administrator, Pouncey has more than 38 years of classroom and leadership experience in Alabama at the state and local levels. Pouncey currently serves as the Superintendent of Jefferson County Schools, a position he’s held since [...]

Montgomery – On Monday, the U. S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced that the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) was one of 23 academic institutions and consortia nationwide awarded a grant to expand private-public apprenticeship partnerships across the country. The Scaling Apprenticeship Through Sector-Based Strategies grants were awarded in three areas: information technology, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. The $12 million grant received by ACCS and the Manufacturing Institute of the National Association of Manufacturing focuses on advanced manufacturing. In Alabama, a [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – After a meeting with Coastal Alabama Community College faculty, staff and leadership on Thursday, June 20, Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced that a search for a new permanent president at the college will begin today. As is customary, an official 30-day posting of the vacant position for president will commence immediately. Following the posting, a committee will review applications and begin the interview process. An announcement naming the next permanent president of the college [...]

MONTGOMERY– Forty-six of the Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) top scholars across the state are announced today as the 2019 All-Alabama Academic team. Two students from each of Alabama’s community colleges were selected by members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society for their demonstration of academic excellence and intellectual rigor, leadership and service, and for their commitment to extending their education beyond the classroom to benefit society. Their prestigious honor will be celebrated by Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. [...]

Montgomery – More than 1,500 full-time faculty members from Alabama’s 24 community colleges convened at Alabama State University on Wednesday, April 10, for the Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) inaugural statewide Professional Development Day. As a part of the ACCS’s continued effort to build a more unified and collaborative system of colleges, the event brought together ACCS instructors from across the state for a full day of discussions and collaboration focused on the community college student experience. Professional development days occur [...]

The Alabama Community College System launched its new user-friendly, student-focused website on Friday, April 5. With just a click, the website makes available information about the education, training, and community support at the state’s 24 community colleges.  The site’s URL is www.accs.edu. “The Alabama Community College System is laser-focused on the student experience and it only makes sense that our website should match that mission,” said Jimmy H. Baker, ACCS Chancellor. “ACCS.edu is now a resource for anyone in Alabama looking [...]

Montgomery – Upon appointment by Governor Kay Ivey, the Alabama Senate confirmed one new member and reconfirmed three other members to the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Board of Trustees on Tuesday. The Board is the governing body of the ACCS. The Senate confirmed accomplished businessman and Vietnam veteran John Mitchell, to represent District 2 for a four-year term on the ACCS Board of Trustees. He replaces Ron Fantroy, who served from 2015 to this year. Re-confirmed were Board Members Milton [...]

Montgomery – Forty-eight students have each been awarded a $3,600 scholarship to study in automotive manufacturing programs at Alabama’s community colleges. The scholarships, along with a mentorship program led by seasoned automotive manufacturing professionals, were provided through the combined efforts of the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and the Alabama Community College System to help fill more than 10,000 automotive manufacturing jobs in Alabama within two years. The following students have been awarded scholarships to pursue a technical education certificate or associate [...]

Dual enrollment - the process high school students use to gain college credit through the Alabama Community College System - has been a launching pad for students like Grissom High School student Ashley Kimbel to start early in pursuing their dream careers. Kimbel is a dually enrolled Calhoun Community College student who, at just 17, is nationally recognized for her design of a lighter-functioning prosthetic foot for Marine Corps veteran amputee Kendall Bane. She and Mr. Bane were featured on the [...]

ACCS signs MOU with Van Braun Center to strengthen programs in aerospace, emerging technologies The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and the Von Braun Center for Science and Innovation University Consortium (VCSI-UC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that fosters the advancement of programs which center on a vast range of emerging technologies. The MOU creates the opportunity to partner, collaborate, and manage projects that expand programs relevant to aerospace and defense communities. Such agreements enhance the positioning of ACCS’ [...]

MONTGOMERY – On Thursday, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) launched an online resource for displaced Virginia College students. Last week, the Education Corporation of America announced that all Virginia College campuses would close, including four in Alabama. The ACCS website – https://www.accs.edu/virginiacollege provides important resources for Virginia College students from obtaining transcripts, to information on loans, and a list of upcoming events. “At the Alabama Community College System, our doors are open and we encourage students displaced by Virginia [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Dr. Patricia Sims as president of J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College. Sims has 25 years of experience in both K-12 and higher education. Most recently, she served as Dean of the College of Education at Athens State University in Athens, Alabama. Sims previously served at Drake State for more than 12 years as Student Services [...]

MONTGOMERY – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Todd Shackett as president of Southern Union State Community College. Shackett’s appointment was unanimously approved by the board of trustees. The selection was made after a 10-month strategic planning process designed to culminate with the selection of a permanent president at the College. The strategic planning effort included multiple avenues for community input including a public survey and [...]

MONTGOMERY – Last week, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) served as host for the annual Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC)’s National Board and Leadership Meeting in Point Clear, AL. Alabama is the first state in the nation to offer MSSC credentials at community colleges statewide, and the ACCS was selected to host this year’s gathering due to this pioneering effort. “Under the leadership of Governor Kay Ivey and Jeff Lynn the ACCS state-wide implementation of the Certified Production Technician [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Annette Funderburk as president of Ingram State Technical College (ISTC). Funderburk has served as the Interim President at Ingram State since February 2017. Prior to leading ISTC, she served nearly 10 years within the Alabama Community College System where her most recent role was Director of External Affairs. “Mrs. Funderburk’s impact on Ingram State to date far [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Keith Brown as president of Jefferson State Community College (JSCC). For additional information on the Alabama Community College System’s partnership with the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council, visit almssc.com. Brown has served Jefferson State for nearly 20 years, most recently in the role of Interim President. His tenure at the college has been marked by his commitment to [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Dr. Joe Burke as Interim President of Calhoun Community College. Burke is a career educator with more than 30 years of experience in higher education as an instructor, counselor and administrator. Most recently, he served as Vice President and Dean of Instruction at Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC), a position he has held for 11 years. “Dr. [...]

At a meeting on Wednesday, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) board of trustees voted to approve two significant initiatives which will fundamentally change and enhance the student experience at every community college across the state.Through the approval of a $10 per credit hour tuition adjustment, the System and its colleges will begin the process of implementing comprehensive advancements at both the statewide and local levels geared towards improving every aspect of engagement with current and potential community college students.The board [...]

More than $64,000 in scholarships awarded to 46 Alabama students MONTGOMERY – On Friday, Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker, college presidents, and faculty and staff recognized 46 students from across the state for their selection as 2018’s All-Alabama Academic Team. The All-Alabama Academic Team members are selected by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society for their demonstration of academic excellence and intellectual rigor, leadership and service, and for their commitment to extending their education beyond the classroom to [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Matthew Rodgers as president of Enterprise State Community College. Rodgers is a career educator with more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, coach and administrator. Most recently, he served as principal of Enterprise High School, where he was noted for his accomplishments in career and technical education and workforce development programs. “Mr. Rodgers’ long history [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Tuesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Dr. Glenda Colagross as president of Northwest-Shoals Community College. Colagross has served the Alabama Community College System for more than 25 years beginning in the classroom as a developmental studies instructor and serving most recently as interim president at Southern Union State Community College and Northwest-Shoals Community College. During her tenure at Northwest-Shoals, Colagross served as chair [...]

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker on Thursday announced the posting of the position of President of Southern Union State Community College. This announcement is the culmination of the Southern Union Strategic Planning Initiative announced in August of 2017. Applicants will have until March 19 to submit their applications. An Advisory Search Committee will be appointed to assist the Chancellor with reviewing applications. The committee will consist of the ACCS Chancellor, Southern Union faculty and staff, [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Wednesday, Matthew Woods was sworn in as a member of the Alabama Community College System board of trustees. Woods was appointed by Governor Kay Ivey and confirmed by the Alabama Senate on February 8. Woods replaces Frank Caldwell who resigned from the board effective January 31, 2017. Woods, who represents District 4, is a second-generation entrepreneur and Manager of Jasper Auto Sales. A community college graduate, Woods has been an active supporter of his alma mater, [...]

MONTGOMERY – The path to fill more than 10,000 automotive manufacturing jobs within two years will be even more affordable in 2019 for 50 students in Alabama. The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and Alabama Community College System have partnered to provide a total $180,000 in scholarships, as well as mentors, to 50 students who want to pursue a technical education certificate or associate degree in the automotive manufacturing industry. The deadline to apply is Feb. 28. Interested students with at [...]

MONTGOMERY – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Jacqueline Screws as president of Chattahoochee Valley Community College (CVCC). Screws has more than three decades of experience in education administration and student affairs. Most recently, she served as Dean of Student Affairs and Sparks Campus for Wallace Community College – Dothan, a role she served in for more than 17 years. “Ms.  Screws’ career has been dedicated [...]

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker on Thursday announced the selection of the Southern Union State Community College Strategic Planning Committee as well as the dates for 3 community town halls. These efforts are part of the ongoing strategic planning initiative at the College, designed to address critical issues and culminating in the selection of a permanent President. “The appointment of the Strategic Planning Committee and the announcement of community town halls at each of the schools’ [...]

MONTGOMERY – At a press conference on Wednesday, Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker announced the appointment of Michael “Mac” McDaniel as the Alabama Community College System’s Director of Aviation Programs. The new position is responsible for the oversight of the System’s Aviation Technology programs across the state. “Alabama’s aviation industry continues to expand with industry giants like Boeing, Airbus, and GE Aviation locating in our own backyard. The Alabama Community College System is working right alongside to ensure [...]

MONTGOMERY – At a press conference Thursday, U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R – Ala.) and Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development, Jeff Lynn, announced a new partnership with four of the system’s colleges, the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) and Walmart’s Brundidge, AL distribution and fulfillment center. This fall, students at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College, Chattahoochee Valley Community College, Wallace Community College in Dothan, and Enterprise State Community College will be offered new [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – At the Alabama Community College System board of trustees meeting on Wednesday, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker announced the selection of Matthew Rodgers as president of Enterprise State Community College. Rodgers is a career educator with more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, coach and administrator. Most recently, he served as principal of Enterprise High School, where he was noted for his accomplishments in career and technical education and workforce development programs. “Mr. Rodgers’ long history [...]

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy Baker announced on Friday the launch of a strategic planning initiative for Southern Union State Community College. The rigorous effort is designed to address critical issues facing the college and will culminate with the selection of a permanent President. Chancellor Baker met Thursday with college administrators, elected officials, business community members and others to explain his vision for the strategic plan. “We owe it to the Southern Union community to take our [...]

MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey and Chancellor Jimmy Baker announced earlier today at the meeting of the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees that beginning this fall, students will have the opportunity to enroll in a brand new curriculum designed by Apple, Inc. called App Development with Swift. Alabama’s community college system is one of only six in the country chosen to offer the program, and has four community colleges participating in the pilot phase. The four community colleges [...]

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Community College System board of trustees voted today to appoint acting chancellor Jimmy H. Baker as chancellor starting April 1. Baker, who has served as acting chancellor for more than six months, will replace Mark Heinrich, who decided to retire after a prolonged illness kept him away from the job. “Jimmy Baker has done a tremendous job of leading the system during the chancellor’s absence and has been far more than a place-holder,” said Al [...]