Talladega College is proud to announce the resounding success of its recent Students First! Day of Giving campaign. The historically black college exceeded its $200,000 goal by an impressive 168%, raising a total of $337,417. This triumph highlights the dedication and generosity of the Talladega College community of supporters, particularly the residents of Alabama and Texas, who contributed the most to this remarkable achievement.
Even with the campaign’s positive outcome, TC officials emphasize that the initiative remains active, inviting continued support to advance the institution’s mission. “The outpouring of support we’ve witnessed is a testament to the commitment of the Talladega College family,” commented Dr. Gregory J. Vincent, President of Talladega College. “We are deeply grateful for every contribution that helps secure the future of our 157-year-old institution. Our success is a collective effort, and while we celebrate this milestone, I encourage our supporters to continue investing in our students’ potential through the Students First! campaign.”
The funds raised are earmarked to support five critical areas: scholarships, the Tornado Market: Food Pantry and Resource Center, athletics, intercollegiate academic programs, and the Great Tornado Band. This strategic investment aligns with Talladega College’s recent highlights, including the baseball team’s championship victory at the Hope Credit Union GCAC 2024 Baseball Tournament and the history-making achievement of All-American gymnast Kyrstin Johnson, the first HBCU gymnast to win the USAG National Vault Championship, as mentioned in the Washington Post. Additionally, TC gymnasts Kiora Peart-Williams, Alexa Chuy, and Alondra Maldonado were also honored with First-Team All-America Honors.
Additional accolades for Talladega College include the Great Tornado Band’s participation in the 2024 London New Year’s Day Parade as the lead band and its recognition as a Top Five HBCU Band by HBCU Buzz. The TC Women’s Volleyball Team celebrated wins for both the regular season and conference GCAC Championships during their 2023-2024 season. The College’s Esports Rocket League Team claimed the top prize at the 2024 HBCU Discover Bowl, and the Hack-a-Thon Team earned second place during the HBCU Battle of the Brains Competition at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas.
Talladega College has the most compelling origin story in higher education, which is reflected even today as the institution is annually ranked as a national leader in social mobility, affirming its commitment to educational access. With 68% of students being Pell Grant eligible, the institution remains a beacon of hope for families with annual earnings below $50,000. The success of its admissions programs is evident, with 70% of the 2023 entering class admitted through the Assured Admissions process boasting an average GPA of 3.5, and the remaining students through the Emerging Scholars Program, averaging a GPA of 3.1.
The success of the Students First! Day of Giving is a powerful reflection of the spirit and potential that thrives within Talladega College. As the institution continues to nurture future leaders and innovators, the support of its community remains a cornerstone of its historic and ongoing achievements.
To contribute to the ongoing success of Talladega College and its students, please visit the Talladega College Giving webpage.
For more information, please contact:
Marriel C. Hardy
Vice President for Communications & Marketing
Cell: 256-493-9034
Office: 256-761-6313
Email: mhardy@talladega.edu
