History of Enterprise State Community College
Humble Beginnings
In 1963, Governor George C. Wallace and the Alabama Legislature established Alabama’s public junior college system. Enterprise was selected as one of the original twelve state junior colleges. The local community played a crucial role by raising funds for the 100-acre campus, donating library materials, and providing scholarships.
On September 27, 1965, the College, originally named Enterprise State Junior College, welcomed its first class of 256 students, who attended classes in rented rooms downtown and at the First Methodist Church. The makeshift arrangements lasted one year until the present campus opened in the fall of 1966. The campus has since grown to include nine modern buildings, including the new Performing Arts Center and the Workforce Training Center.
A New President
Dr. Joseph D. Talmadge became president in 1981 after B.A. Forrester retired. Dr. Talmadge had been a key figure since the College’s inception. After his retirement in 1994, Dr. Stafford L. Thompson served as interim president before being officially appointed in 1996. Dr. Thompson expanded the College’s aviation programs and secured funding for the Aviation Technical Training Center in Ozark. Dr. Nancy W. Chandler succeeded Dr. Thompson in 2009 and expanded aviation training across Alabama.
Expansion into Aviation
In 2003, the Alabama State Board of Education reorganized the College to include the Alabama Aviation College in Ozark and Mobile. Aviation maintenance programs are now offered at Andalusia and Albertville locations, with all sites operating under the name Enterprise State Community College since 2009.
The Alabama Aviation College at Ozark, established in 1960, became part of the Alabama State Board of Education in 1963. Over time, it earned several accreditations, added new locations, and expanded its aviation programs across the state.
Student Life and Achievements
Enterprise State Community College has gained state and national recognition for various student activities. Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society for two-year colleges, has been a standout, receiving awards such as Most Distinguished Chapter in the Nation and international top ten percent placement.
Athletics also have a strong legacy, with teams like baseball, basketball and volleyball achieving state championships. The College’s golf and tennis teams have also placed high in state competitions.
Funding the School
Enterprise State Community College has secured federal and private funding, enabling it to create innovative programs and services. Grants from the U.S. Department of Education, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Labor have supported faculty development, student support services, and specialized programs.
The ESCC Foundation
Founded in 1982, the ESCC Foundation raises private funds to enhance the College’s programs. Administered by a Board of Directors, the Foundation supports student scholarships, faculty development, and curriculum improvements. The James Hatcher Collection of theatre memorabilia, displayed at ESCC, honors the Enterprise native’s contribution to the arts.
Recent Leadership
Daniel Long was appointed as the College’s sixth president on June 8, 2022. His collaborative efforts with business and industry have helped introduce new programs, including Advanced Composites, Mechatronics, CDL training, and Medical Assisting Technology. Under his leadership, the College continues to expand and modernize its instructional offerings and facilities.