To cap off an exciting weekend for Talladega College, the award-winning television, stage, and film actor S. Epatha Merkerson surprised attendees of the 150th Commencement by announcing a generous gift of $1 million on May 4.
Leading up to the announcement of her gift, Merkerson expressed her appreciation for the relationship she had built with Talladega, the legacy of the College, and the joy she felt visiting the campus during its Alumni Reunion Weekend. “I came down (to Talladega) and met some wonderful people who embraced me immediately. I felt at home, and I love what this college has done for over 150 years,” she said in an interview with WBRC-TV. The Talladega College community was deeply moved by the extraordinary generosity of Merkerson.
“This transformative gift from S. Epatha Merkerson sets a powerful example of philanthropy and will have a profound impact on Talladega College. It ensures that this institution remains a beacon of light in the community that fosters the development of future leaders for generations to come,” said Rica Lewis-Payton, the chair of Talladega’s Board of Trustees. “We are privileged to have generous friends and donors, such as Ms. Merkerson, who believe in the mission of our historic institution and who are willing to invest in its future."
While Merkerson is known as Sharon Goodwin on “Chicago Med” and Lieutenant Anita Van Buren from “Law & Order”, she is fully engaged in the role of humanitarian and philanthropist. She has given her time and talents to advocate for diabetes awareness, cancer prevention and tobacco-free initiatives. Merkerson has been recognized and honored for her service to organizations such as SHE (Shaping Her Earth) and Step Up, nonprofit organizations dedicated to the mentorship of young women.
After making her gift announcement, Merkerson recognized her fellow degree recipients by exclaiming, "Class of 2025!"
Merkerson delivered the commencement address and was conferred an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters.
