Mrs. Rica Lewis-Payton, Class of ’81, was elected chair of the Talladega College Board of Trustees on November 3, 2023. Mr. Terry Smiley, vice president for the Eastern Division of Alabama Power and longtime supporter of the College, was elected Board of Trustees vice chair, and Dr. Monique Gardner-Witherspoon, associate provost and associate professor in Education Leadership at Samford College, was named Board of Trustees secretary.
Mrs. Lewis-Payton, a healthcare executive and leadership coach, has served on the Board since 2017. Mrs. Lewis-Payton said, “Under the outstanding leadership of President Vincent and outgoing Chair, Dr. Isaiah Hugley, my goal is to continue implementation of the strategic vision and bold goals established this year related to ensuring the academic success of our students, building a strong endowment, enhancing financial operations, and improving our infrastructure.”
She noted a major capital campaign is planned next year to accelerate achievement of the President’s and Board’s vision and goals. “The best is yet to come, and I am honored to serve as Board Chair of the “Alpha Lyrae Vega of them all,” said Lewis-Payton.
Lewis-Payton said that as a first-generation college student, she would not have had the success she has if not for Talladega. She explains why it is so important for alumni to give back to the institution, “‘To those much is given, much is required.’ I feel a great sense of responsibility to give back to an institution that has given me so much. For Talladega College to be her best and continue to serve generations to come, it is imperative that each of us commits to ensuring Talladega College not only survives but thrives!”
Talladega College President Gregory J. Vincent said, “I am pleased that Mrs. Lewis-Payton, Mr. Smiley, and Dr. Gardner-Witherspoon will be leading the Board of Trustees. We could not ask for a more dedicated and knowledgeable team to help Talladega meet its goals the next three years.”
