GADSDEN, AL — Gadsden State Community College celebrated its centennial on Tuesday, September 16, with a historic 100-year anniversary event at Beck Gymnasium on the Wallace Drive Campus. The gathering brought together students, alumni, employees, retirees, and community members to honor a century of education, innovation, and service.
The celebration opened with remarks from Dean Andy Green, who welcomed attendees and recognized college leadership before introducing Gadsden State President Alan Smith.
“For 100 years, Gadsden State has opened doors and created opportunities that transform lives,” President Smith said. “We honor those who came before us by preparing the next generation to succeed. Our commitment is to continue opening doors of opportunity and ensuring Gadsden State remains a place where futures are built.”
Smith also acknowledged dignitaries in attendance, including past presidents, division chairs, directors, retirees, and alumni of the Alabama School of Trades, Alabama Technical College, and Gadsden State Junior College.
The program featured a City of Gadsden proclamation presented by Council President Kent Back and a Congressional Record delivered by Shea Snide Miller, representing Congressman Mike Rogers’ office. Guests also viewed video segments highlighting institutional milestones and heard reflections from voices across the college’s history, including Boone Kinard, Tim McCartney, alumni Lindsey Cline and Destiny Hall, retiree Pam Clough, former presidents Dr. Martha Lavender and Dr. Renee Culverhouse, and Hillary Folsom, Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations.
Following the formal program, attendees toured archival displays, enjoyed refreshments, and reconnected with fellow Cardinals. Commemorative centennial T-shirts and coins were available, and guests were invited to tour the newly opened Sports Complex.
The centennial celebration is part of a yearlong series of events taking place across Gadsden State’s five campuses: East Broad, Wallace Drive, Valley Street, Ayers, and Cherokee. The next milestone event will be the annual Cardinal Gala on October 9.
For more information about Gadsden State’s centennial events, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/Celebrate.
