Lawson State Community College Commemorates Diamond Jubilee: Celebrating A Legacy of Success
Birmingham, AL (March 2024) - Lawson State Community College proudly announces the nearly year-long celebration of its 75th anniversary, commemorating three-quarters of a century of teaching, learning, innovation, and service since its establishment in 1949. The college will host a series of events and activities throughout the year to honor its rich history and the countless contributions made by students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
The roots of Lawson State can be traced back to the 1940s when it served as a vocational and trade school. With the enactment of the Wallace-Patterson Trade School Act of 1947, the Wenonah Vocational and Trade School for Negroes was created, marking the state's commitment to providing higher education opportunities to the Black community in Jefferson County, Alabama. Over the years, Lawson State has evolved through name changes and mergers, graduating thousands of students who have gone on to make significant contributions to society globally.
Dr. Cynthia T. Anthony, President of Lawson State Community College, expressed the significance of this milestone, stating, "As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we reflect on the transformative impact Lawson State has had on countless lives. Our commitment to excellence in education and our dedication to empowering our students to achieve their dreams have remained unwavering throughout the years. This anniversary is a testament to our resilience, innovation, and unwavering pursuit of academic excellence."
Dr. Geri Albright, the Anniversary Coordinator, shared her excitement about the variety of celebrations planned throughout the year. "Our anniversary festivities will bring together the entire Lawson State community, including current students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the college. We have a diverse range of events planned, including campus celebrations, alumni reunions, community service initiatives, and more. It's a time to honor our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to a future filled with limitless possibilities."
The anniversary celebrations will feature a special campus event on March 7, coinciding with the Faculty/Staff Meeting, and will continue throughout the year, culminating in a grand anniversary celebration in late 2024.
In an earlier commemoration, the Lawson State Community College Foundation hosted a kick-off event on August 24, 2023 to begin the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the institution’s founding. The event was a grand affair that celebrated the college's rich history, remarkable achievements, and unwavering commitment to empowering dreams through education.
