A Message from Dr. Kathy Murphy

The Gadsden State Community College Annual Report is a testament to the dedication, resilience and collective efforts that led to many achievements and milestones at Gadsden State in 2023. Thank you for taking the time to read this report. 

You can read about how Gadsden State continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and commitment to academic excellence. You can read about our students, faculty, staff and administrators, who have shown strength, creativity, innovation and a steadfast commitment to our goal of fostering learning and personal growth. Together, we are changing lives for good, forever.

College Highlights

2023 is one to celebrate with many milestones, including an increase in enrollment and a record number of credentials awarded. We celebrate investments in our campuses through new construction and renovations; investments that are positioning us for continued growth and innovation. We celebrate the results of an economic impact study that show one out of every 41 jobs in the Gadsden State service area is supported by the activities of our College and our students. 

We celebrate the first graduating cohort of our Dental Assisting Program and the record number of students to sign with Gadsden State’s FAME program. And, we celebrate the creation of the first Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department. The 2023 Annual Report explores these college highlights and so much more.

Student Success

Gadsden State students are the heartbeat of our institution. Their success is our ultimate goal. Our commitment to providing a supporting and inclusive learning environment is evident in the achievements of our diverse student body. 

We celebrate SGA President Caity Daniel, who is making it her mission to increase student engagement on our campuses, and Tracy Hutcheson, an Adult Education student who achieved his goal of being a high school graduate – 37 years after his peers. We celebrate the Dual Enrollment students who earned college credit while fulfilling high school requirements, and our student-athletes, who were recognized for academic and athletic achievements. We celebrate the accomplishments of all our students.

Employee Achievements

Gadsden State continues to thrive with faculty and staff members dedicated to providing a rigorous and innovative educational experience. Our employees continue to present opportunities for growth and improvement. Their unwavering commitment drives success at Gadsden State. They are upholding a community college that values education, fosters innovation and prepares future leaders. 

We celebrate the winners of the Chancellor’s Awards, the Exceptional Teaching Award and the Staff Excellence Award. We celebrate new leadership in Health Sciences, Student Services and at Gadsden State Cherokee. We celebrate the efforts and commitment of all of our employees.

Community Partnerships

Gadsden State remains deeply connected to the communities we serve. Through community partnerships and engagement initiatives, we continue to make a positive impact beyond our campuses. We are proud of the collaborative efforts we have with our area leaders, industries, businesses and community organizations. 

We celebrate the first Cardinal Foundation Gala for raising $68,000 to provide scholarships and other positive experiences for our students. We celebrate the partnerships our Valley Street Campus has formed with the White House Initiative and the Thurgood Marshall Fund. We celebrate our many community partners. 

I invite you to explore the 2023 Annual Report. See the highlights, the achievements and the aspirations that define our institution. As we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of higher education, I am confident that our shared commitment to excellence will propel Gadsden State to even greater heights. 

In closing, I thank you for your support and your engagement as we continue to make a difference in our communities for good, forever.