GADSDEN, AL – Gadsden State Community College continued its yearlong centennial celebration with a commemorative event on July 7 recognizing 65 years of educational impact at the Valley Street Campus. The event brought together students, alumni, retirees, community leaders, and local officials to honor the campus’s historic role in promoting education, equity, and opportunity in Gadsden and beyond.
Founded on July 6, 1960, as Gadsden Vocational Trade School, the campus was established to provide vocational training to African American veterans and students. Over the decades, it evolved into a cornerstone of workforce development and accessibility in Alabama’s higher education system.
Interim President Alan Smith emphasized the campus’s continued relevance. “The Valley Street Campus is a testament to resilience, vision, and progress,” he said. “For 65 years, Valley Street has opened doors and changed lives—and today, its legacy continues to evolve with purpose and pride.”
The campus has undergone several transformations. In 1962, it became a state institute, later renamed Gadsden State Technical Institute in 1972. A merger in 1985 made it part of Gadsden State Community College, and in 1997, the Valley Street Campus received the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) designation from the U.S. Department of Education. This designation allowed the campus to receive Title III federal grant funding, used to enhance academic programs and campus infrastructure.
The July 7 celebration featured musical performances, historical reflections, and student-led tributes. Notable guests included founding director Eugene N. Prater and several former and current campus directors. Students from technical programs reenacted “The History of the Coffee Shop,” a tribute to early student experiences.
Recognition awards were presented to key campus leaders from its founding to the present. Director Ricky Tillis highlighted the campus’s commitment to student success before introducing keynote speaker Steven Hoyt of Birmingham, whose message focused on honoring the past while preparing today’s students for the future.
Alumni contributions were acknowledged by Shirley Hall, Class of 1972, and the event concluded with remarks from Director Tillis and a presentation of historical campus displays curated by Dr. Derrick Griffey.
The celebration is part of Gadsden State’s “Celebrate Gadsden State” campaign, marking 100 years of the college’s presence and progress across its campuses. For more information about upcoming centennial events, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/Celebrate.
