As Alabama’s summer heat lingers, Reid State Community College radiates opportunity. On September 12, 2025, we transitioned from Reid State Technical College to Reid State Community College. This is a name that reflects our mission to empower individuals and transform communities across Butler, Conecuh, Monroe, Escambia and Wilcox counties through accessible, high-quality education that ignites lifelong learning and creates generational change.
You may wonder why a name change is relevant. In itself, the shift from a technical to a community college is a pivotal evolution for Reid State that aligns with our June 2025 accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
In December 2025, we anticipate SACSCOC will give its final approval for us to launch more programs. With that approval, we will begin offering both Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees starting in Spring 2026. What does this mean for our students? We will be able to offer a seamless transfer from Reid State to every SACSCOC, public accredited college and university in Alabama. What’s more is that the courses within these degrees will be covered by federal financial aid for those who qualify.
The new accreditation has been described as a “game-changer,” which means more students in our communities get to take the higher level English, math, science and humanities courses at a far less cost than they would in transferring directly to a four-year university. This milestone makes higher education achievable for first-generation learners and rural students without leaving home.
Reid State’s technical course offerings will remain strong. There are currently 670 students — the largest student body we have experienced in a fall semester in more than a decade — currently pursuing technical programs to enter Alabama’s workforce in areas such as practical nursing, cosmetology, welding, diesel technology, computer information science, childcare development, electronics, business and more. The ability to offer both the technical and academic programs at a greater scale positions us as a regional hub for opportunity, bridging the gap between rural communities and the broader academic and economic landscape.
By embracing the community college identity, we affirm our commitment to serving diverse learners — whether they seek immediate employment or a university degree — while strengthening the social and economic fabric of South Alabama through education that uplifts entire families and communities.
Our most recent economic impact study highlights our $33.6 million effect of supporting more than 590 jobs, with students earning $6.50 in lifetime earnings per dollar invested. Record enrollment, a new student dormitory and expanding athletic programs amplify our reach. With nearly 100% financial aid coverage, tutoring and career counseling, we ensure every student thrives.
To our students, alumni and partners: thank you for fueling this legacy. Reid State Community College is your partner, turning dreams into reality. Join us in building a brighter future.
Dr. Coretta L. Boykin is president of Reid State Community College.
