Event launches two years of celebration and community service projects across state’s
community colleges

The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) will host the ACCS Diamond Jubilee Kickoff at 10 a.m. Monday, April 17, at the State Capitol. The event kicks off two years of celebration and community service projects across the state and will include representatives from all 24 community and technical colleges that make up the ACCS.
On the afternoon of May 3, 1963, legislation establishing what would become the ACCS was signed into law, creating a unified system of institutions to focus on accessible training in “arts and sciences and in useful skills and trades” for current and future labor needs in Alabama. Nearly 60 years have passed, but this important cause remains the purpose of the ACCS.
Today, more than 155,000 students from every walk of life receive education and training at an Alabama community or technical college.
In addition to speakers, a “birthday” cake will be prepared by students in the Trenholm State Community College Culinary Arts program to be served in the Capitol Tunnel. The Lurleen B. Wallace Community College Ensemble will perform music on the Alabama Capitol Steps. The performance includes the Eagles’ rendition of Seven Bridges Road, a song that relates to Montgomery.
The media is invited to attend the event.
WHO: Jimmy H. Baker, Chancellor, Alabama Community College System
Bradley Byrne, Honorary ACCS Diamond Jubilee Chair, current President and CEO of the Mobile Chamber
Dr. Linda Young, President, Wallace Community College-Dothan
Tom McNeal, Workforce Development Manager, Alabama Power
Jason Simpson, Chief Meteorologist, WVTM 13, and Wallace State alum
James Brinkley, Student, Lawson State Community College
WHAT: Alabama Community College System Diamond Jubilee Kickoff
WHEN: 10 a.m. Monday, April 17
WHERE: Alabama State Capitol Auditorium; 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, 36104
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About ACCS
With 24 community colleges in more than 130 locations, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) is Alabama’s gateway to first-class, affordable education and technical training to compete in a constantly evolving workforce. More than 155,000 Alabamians benefit from the various certification, credential, dual enrollment and degree programs ACCS offers alongside leading industry partners. The System includes the Alabama Technology Network, which provides extensive training and service offerings directly to business and industry. ACCS is governed by the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees.