Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College Athletics is now accepting nominations for its inaugural class of inductees into the newly-established Gadsden State Athletic Hall of Fame. This new honor seeks to recognize the outstanding athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors who have made significant contributions to Gadsden State Athletics over the years.
“We are thrilled to launch the Gadsden State Athletic Hall of Fame to honor the accomplishments of our fellow Cardinals and to reinforce our strong tradition and rich history in athletics,” said Blake Lewis, athletic director.
The selection process will be managed by a committee led by Lewis, which will include five Gadsden State employees, a community representative, a Cardinal Foundation designee, and an active head coach from the College. The committee will carefully consider all nominations to ensure that those chosen for induction have made a lasting impact on Gadsden State Athletics.
To be eligible for the Hall of Fame based on athletic achievements, nominees must have participated in at least two years of varsity-level competition at one of several predecessor institutions, including Gadsden State Community College, Gadsden State Junior College, Ayers State Technical College, Alabama School of Trades, Alabama Technical College, or Gadsden State Technical Institute. Nominees must have left the College with a degree or a minimum 2.0 GPA and must not have been dismissed for disciplinary reasons. Additionally, nominees must have completed their eligibility at least five years ago.
“We are looking to honor those who have represented Gadsden State with excellence,” Lewis said. “The Hall of Fame is about past performances and the positive impact these individuals have had on our College and community.”
The Hall of Fame also includes a Meritorious Service category to recognize those who have contributed to Gadsden State Athletics in a non-athletic capacity, such as coaches, administrators, or long-time supporters. These individuals must have made a significant impact on Gadsden State Athletics for at least 10 years.
Athletic teams are also eligible for induction, provided it has been 10 years since the team’s competitive season. Teams can be inducted without precluding individual members of the team from being recognized separately.
In addition, the Hall of Fame will accept nominations for posthumous induction, allowing deceased contributors to Gadsden State Athletics to be considered for this honor.
The inaugural class of inductees will be honored at a special dinner on August 14, with no fewer than three and no more than eight inductees to be selected each year.
“We believe this is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Gadsden State Athletics, from individual accomplishments to team successes to those who have made a lasting impact on our programs,” said Lewis. “We are so excited about the inaugural class to our Hall of Fame.”
Nominations for the Gadsden State Athletic Hall of Fame will be accepted through May 15. To submit a nomination or for more information, visit GoCardinals.gadsdenstate.edu or contact Blake Lewis at blewis@gadsdenstate.edu.
