Talladega College proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Michelle B. Hayes as the new Dean of the Division of Education and Social Sciences. A visionary educator and accomplished executive leader, Dr. Hayes brings more than three decades of transformational experience across K–12 administration, higher education, and nonprofit leadership.
A native of Mobile, Alabama, Dr. Hayes currently serves as Executive Director of College Admissions Made Possible (CAMP), a nationally recognized college access and readiness organization headquartered in Birmingham. Under her leadership, CAMP’s annual operating budget has grown from $325,000 to more than $1.9 million, allowing the organization to serve over 40,000 students each year with programs focused on college preparation, ACT readiness, STEM enrichment, and workforce development. She also oversees the Alabama Virtual Institute (AVI), which delivers innovative digital learning and academic support to thousands of students and educators across the Southeast.
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Hayes has led major multi-state partnerships, secured significant federal, state, and philanthropic funding, and expanded sustainable academic enrichment opportunities that improve student success. Her background includes impactful service as a Principal in Fairfield City Schools, where she spearheaded targeted improvement strategies that raised graduation rates, strengthened ACT benchmarks, and increased dual enrollment participation.
Her higher education experience includes service as Department Chair and Professor at Stillman College. While there, she guided academic programming, led faculty development, and contributed to achieving CAEP accreditation. She also holds ACUE certification in Effective Online Teaching, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in inclusive instruction.
Dr. Hayes earned her Doctor of Education in Leadership and Curriculum Development and Education Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership from Samford University. She holds a Master of Arts in Education Administration from the University of South Alabama and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Troy University. Her research explores areas including Social Emotional Learning, Transformational Leadership, and instructional leadership — themes reflected in her forthcoming books, Unlocking the Confidence Code and The Confidence Curriculum: Building Brilliance in Students, Teachers, and Leaders.
“Dr. Hayes is a strategic builder whose vision aligns powerfully with Talladega’s mission to prepare compassionate, confident, and career-ready leaders,” said Talladega College President Dr. Willie L. Todd, Jr. “Her proven ability to prepare high-quality educators, coupled with her passion for expanding opportunity and inspiring excellence, will help elevate our academic enterprise and strengthen the student experience.”
Dr. Hayes has collaborated with leading organizations such as Alabama Possible, Birmingham Promise, Alabama Public Television, and regional GEAR UP programs to expand college-to-career pathways for students. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, she is widely recognized for leading with purpose, innovation, and heart.
Her leadership philosophy — Intentional. Impactful. Infinite. — captures her belief that learning is both a calling and a catalyst for brighter futures. A devoted wife, mother, and mentor, Dr. Hayes remains committed to empowering educators and students to lead with boldness and purpose.
