Gadsden, AL – Two Gadsden State Community College students from the Valley Street Campus recently attended the inaugural Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Workforce Development Summit held from January 30 to February 1 in Birmingham. Giaus Spurgeon and Dyamond McCadney participated in the summit, which brought together Historically Black Community Colleges (HBCCs), workforce talent, and industry partners for a three-day event designed to help students develop the skills needed to thrive in their careers.
The summit provided an invaluable opportunity for the students to gain hands-on experience and learn strategies for personal and professional success. As part of the event, both students were awarded the Cal and Annette Johnson Scholarship, valued at $15,000 each. These scholarships are part of TMCF’s ongoing commitment to supporting the education and professional growth of students from HBCCs.
“We are very proud of Giaus and Dyamond,” said Ricky Tillis, director of the Valley Street Campus. “A scholarship worth $15,000 is substantial and will significantly ease their financial burdens. It allows them to continue their studies with full focus.”
McCadney, 27, is from Union City, Tenn., and is pursuing a degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She is in her second year at Gadsden State and selected the college for its proximity to home and its status as an HBCC.
“Gadsden State has been a perfect match for me,” McCadney said. “The program also has an amazing success rate for sonographers.”
After completing her degree, McCadney plans to apply for Gadsden State’s Echocardiography Certificate Program and is considering further studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Reflecting on her experience at the summit, McCadney said it was “phenomenal.”
“I learned so many skills, such as taking control of my credit and negotiating my salary,” she shared. “The job fair was an incredible opportunity, and we were able to meet with a number of companies.”
McCadney expressed her gratitude for receiving the scholarship, which allows her to focus on her studies without the added pressure of tuition payments.
“I’ve been working the entire time I’ve been in college,” she said. “It’s unbelievable to think that not only is my tuition paid now, but I can also fully focus on my studies. I am so grateful for the Summit and the scholarship fund for giving me this amazing opportunity.”
Spurgeon, an 18-year-old from Albertville, is working toward a short-term certificate in Construction Technology at the Valley Street Campus. Passionate about carpentry and hands-on learning, Spurgeon chose the program for its practical experience, especially its involvement with Habitat for Humanity.
“I’ve really enjoyed helping others with the work the program does for Habitat for Humanity,” he said. “It’s been awesome to help build houses.”
Spurgeon plans to pursue an associate degree in general studies at Gadsden State and aspires to become an entrepreneur in the construction field, helping to provide affordable homes for low-income families.
“I’m still trying to figure out my life’s path, but I know I want to help people by building homes that low-income people can afford,” he said.
Spurgeon was shocked and thrilled to receive the $15,000 scholarship, which will help ease his financial burdens as he continues his studies.
“I never considered that I would be a scholarship recipient,” he admitted. “I didn’t even realize they called my name. I just sat there shocked for a minute.”
The Valley Street Campus, which was once the only vocational training school for Black Americans, earned its HBCU designation in 1997 and continues to serve as a beacon of educational excellence for underserved communities. In 2023, the campus was selected as one of six Alabama community colleges to join the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, expanding students’ access to scholarships and professional development opportunities.
The Workforce Development Summit, a key component of TMCF, aims to deepen partnerships between HBCCs and employers seeking highly skilled talent. Spurgeon shared his takeaways from the event, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and networking.
“I learned so much at the Summit, including the importance of being my authentic self,” he said. “Always be yourself and take time for yourself. Also, take advantage of networking. Don’t be afraid to communicate with others. That next handshake could be a job opportunity.”
For more information about Gadsden State Community College’s Valley Street Campus, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/hbcu.
