Talladega College proudly celebrates Provost and Executive Vice President Dr. A. Clifton Myles on being named a recipient of the 2026 Crown Jewel Presidential Diamond Award for Transformational Higher Education Leadership, Student Success, Institutional Innovation, HBCU Excellence, and Academic Stewardship.
The prestigious recognition was presented during the 10th Anniversary Celebration of The Academy of the Diamond Awards and the 20th Anniversary Celebration of The Not Alone Foundation, Inc., held July 17 at the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta.
The internationally recognized honor celebrates visionary leaders whose work has transformed higher education through innovation, academic excellence, institutional leadership, and an unwavering commitment to student success. According to the Academy of the Diamond Awards, Dr. Myles was selected for his distinguished leadership spanning more than three decades in education and for his significant contributions to strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities through strategic innovation, academic stewardship, and transformational leadership.
Since joining Talladega College as Provost and Executive Vice President, Dr. Myles has worked collaboratively with faculty, staff, and campus leadership to strengthen academic programs, advance institutional excellence, and enhance opportunities that prepare students for success in graduate education, the workforce, and beyond.
"This recognition is deeply humbling because it reflects the collective work of outstanding colleagues, dedicated faculty, talented students, and visionary leadership who believe in the transformative power of education," said Dr. Myles. "I am honored to serve Talladega College and remain committed to creating opportunities that empower our students to lead, innovate, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world."
Talladega College President Dr. Willie L. Todd, Jr. praised Dr. Myles for his exceptional leadership and commitment to academic excellence.
"Dr. Myles exemplifies the highest standards of academic leadership and servant leadership," said Dr. Todd. "His vision, integrity, and unwavering dedication to student success continue to strengthen Talladega College as we move forward in Reimagining Liberal Arts Education. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his remarkable impact on higher education and is a well-deserved honor for both Dr. Myles and our institution."
The Academy of the Diamond Awards is an internationally recognized annual celebration honoring individuals whose excellence, innovation, and service have transformed industries and communities around the world. Often referred to as the "Oscars of Community Service," the awards recognize leaders whose work has created lasting impact through service, scholarship, and leadership. The Not Alone Foundation, Inc., which sponsors the awards, has spent two decades advancing community empowerment, educational excellence, civic engagement, and philanthropic leadership.
As Talladega College continues its mission of preparing future leaders through academic excellence and innovation, Dr. Myles' national recognition reflects the institution's ongoing commitment to educational distinction and transformational leadership.
