05/01/26
Gadsden State Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Athletic Park
Gadsden, Ala. — Gadsden State Community College celebrated the official opening of its new athletic park with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, April 30, bringing together college leadership, community partners, alumni and supporters.
Gadsden State President Alan Smith led the program, followed by City of Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford; Dr. Kathy Murphy, former Gadsden State president and current president of Wallace Community College in Dothan; Dr. Chris Cox, Alabama Community College System Deputy Chancellor for Instruction, Research and Development; and student-athletes Jake Steed and Pressley Slaton.
The event, held in the courtyard area of the new complex, highlighted the college’s continued investment in student-athletes and campus facilities, as well as the strong partnerships between the college, the city and the Alabama Community College System.
Following the ceremony, attendees moved onto the field for alumni recognition honoring former baseball and softball players, along with ceremonial first pitches delivered by special guests.
Steed and Slaton represented current student-athletes during the program, reflecting the impact of the new facility on the Cardinals experience.
The celebration continued throughout the afternoon with baseball and softball games, allowing attendees to experience the new complex in action.
The athletic park serves as a major enhancement to Gadsden State’s athletics program, providing modern facilities for competition, recruitment and community engagement.
The April 30 event also served as a culminating celebration of Community College Month, highlighting the college’s role in academics, workforce development and student life across the region.
For more information about Gadsden State Community College, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu.
From left to right: Zach Lee, ACCS Regional External Affairs Liaison; Alan Smith, President of Gadsden State; Dr. Kathy Murphy, former President of Gadsden State; and Tim McCartney, ACCS Board Member
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