History
When the public junior college system of Alabama was established in 1963, Enterprise was selected as the site for one of the original twelve state junior colleges. Area citizens and civic groups raised money for the purchase of a 100-acre campus site, donated library materials, and provided a number of scholarships—thus, beginning a history of college and community cooperation for which Enterprise State Community College is noted.
The Alabama Aviation College at Ozark originated in 1960 as a part of the Ozark City Board of Education’s educational program. In 1962, the institution’s aviation maintenance program was certified by the Federal Aviation Administration, and in 1963, the institution became a state vocational trade school. In February 2003, the Alabama State Board of Education approved the reorganization of Enterprise State Junior College with the Alabama Aviation College at Ozark, and in November 2009, the Alabama State Board of Education approved a name change to Enterprise State Community College with the aviation programs marketed as the Alabama Aviation College, a unit of Enterprise State Community College.
The ESCC Foundation was established in 1982 to enhance the College’s ability to seek private funding. Administered by a Board of Directors composed of business and civic leaders, the Foundation has developed an endowment program that funds student scholarships as well as faculty development, curriculum improvement, and continuing education projects. Throughout its history, Enterprise State Community College has been successful in attracting federal and private funds that have enabled the College to develop innovative programs and services.
The College has received state and national recognition for a variety of student activities, including Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society of American two-year colleges; the Ambassadors, which leads the orientation programs for new students; and the Entertainers, the College’s show choir. Athletics have been an important part of the ESCC collegiate experience as well. The College currently supports men’s basketball, women’s basketball, men’s baseball, and women’s softball teams.
The College has been led by five dedicated, enthusiastic presidents: Mr. B.A. Forrester (1965-1981), Dr. Joseph D. Talmadge (1981-1994), Dr. Stafford L. Thompson (1996-2008), Dr. Nancy W. Chandler (2009- 2014), and Mr. Matt Rodgers (2017-present). Mr. Rodgers, the faculty, and staff are continuing the College’s legacy of excellence in education at all locations of the College and in the surrounding communities. Dynamic leadership, dedication to the teaching-learning process, and superior support services help the College achieve its mission.