Talladega College held its annual Opening Convocation and Constitution Day Observance on Sept. 7, to a packed audience in the DeForest Chapel.
The Honorable Randall L. Woodfin, J.D., mayor of Birmingham, served as keynote speaker. He spoke to the students about experiences and challenges he faced and overcame both as a student and Mayor.
“Every time I am afforded an opportunity to stand before young people, I have a high appreciation,” Woodfin said. “My job as mayor is about serving people, and when I stand in front of young people, I like to be formidable. The first time I took the bar exam and ran for mayor, I lost.”
According to Woodfin, sharing how one overcomes losses is key when speaking to students. He gestured and walked the stage as he spoke to the audience, which included faculty, staff, and several community leaders and dignitaries.
“You are on a mission to advance your education, but the way I see Talladega, you are on a mission to advance the world,” he said. “There is an entire world that is depending on you to change it, and that depends on commitment.”
As the student body looked in awe to hear Woodfin’s message, he added, “Talladega has an amazing campus. There is beauty and history in these historic buildings. There is a lot of pride in every Talladega graduate I know. Shout to the world where you came from, and remember your training here at Talladega College.
In life, you should do what you want to do. It is meant for you to take the lead and become a leader.” Woodfin said. “Continue to honor and take care, and don’t forget what the institution stands for.”
Dr. Gregory J. Vincent, 21st president of Talladega, expressed how he was overwhelmed seeing the historic DeForest Chapel filled with excellence and joy.
“We are now situated in the sacred & historic DeForest Chapel. You are surrounded by beautiful stained glass windows that were designed by a former Talladega College
professor, David Driskell, who is known around the world.” Vincent said. “One of the hallmarks of Talladega College is excellence and genius.”
Continuing to speak on the undeniable legacy of excellence of Talladega, Vincent shared recent accomplishments of the institution, “In a number of national rankings, we are rated among the nation's best in social mobility. For over 157 years, we have faithfully excluded the faith-inspired mission laid out by our founders. We have always been excellent and great and have made good even better as we strive to do our best.”
In referencing the United States Constitution, Vincent spoke on the five protections found in the First Amendment. He shared, “You have the right to exercise your Constitutional duty for yourself and your community. This is what this day is about. Everyone can live in peace and harmony.”
Several community leaders, student organizations, as well as a Greek organization were present at the event.
Vincent recognized Attorney Kim Wilson-Vincent, TC first lady, Betty Spratlin, Talladega City Council president, Annie Eaton, Talladega County Extension Service, Dr. Monique Gardner-Weatherspoon, TC board trustee, Jovon Tatum, TC student trustee, Kendraih Moore, Student Government Association president, Jordan Thomas and Eliza Croom, Mr. and Ms. Talladega, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Beta Chapter. Woodfin was honored with a portrait of the "First Day of Registration" from the Amistad Murals and gift from the members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., of which Mayor Woodfin is also a member.
Mayor Woodfin entered his second term as Mayor in 2021. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and Samford University Cumberland School of Law. Mayor Woodfin previously served as president of the Birmingham Board of Education.
Dr. Barbara J. Johnson, executive vice-president and provost, presided over the event, and the Rev. Cameron R. Thomas, assistant vice president and dean of chapel, gave the invocation. Dr. Kenyatta Shamburger, senior vice president and chief operating officer, introduced Mayor Woodfin and TC student Kamaree Williams sang “Ride On, King Jesus,” accompanied by Dr. Mi Kyung Hwang to close the ceremony.
