Shelton State & Partners Break Ground on Health Science Academy
October 14, 2026 – Shelton State Community College, Bibb Medical Center, and Bibb County Schools will celebrate their shared commitment to healthcare education and workforce development at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Bibb County Health Science Academy on Monday, October 19 at 10:00 a.m. at Bibb Medical Center in Centreville, Alabama. (259 Belcher Street, Centreville, AL 35042) Members of the media are invited to attend.
The Academy represents a collaborative effort to connect education and healthcare, expand opportunities for students, and support the community’s future healthcare workforce. Along with state and community leaders, the ceremony will bring together representatives from all three partner organizations to mark this milestone.
Scheduled speakers include Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth; Senator April Weaver; Jimmy Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System; Heather Desmond, CEO of Bibb Medical Center; Kevin Cotner, Superintendent of Bibb County Schools; and Dr. Jonathan Koh, President of Shelton State Community College.
The Bibb County Health Science Academy is expected to be completed in the spring of 2028.
About Shelton State Community College
Shelton State Community College (SSCC), an accredited, two-year institution in the Alabama Community College System, offers over 30 associate degrees in technical and health services programs. Shelton State, located in Tuscaloosa, is one of six Historically Black Community Colleges in Alabama and one of only 12 in the nation. For nearly 75 years, the College has educated students in West Alabama and is an institution where academic skills transfer to workplace skills through progressive partnerships with local industry. SSCC is a member of the Alabama Division Conference (ACCC) and competes in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) at the Division I level. The Buccaneers hold four NJCAA National Championships in men’s and women’s golf. 42 NJCAA Region XXII Division I titles in men’s basketball (12), women’s basketball (20), baseball (9), and softball (1), and 14 UCA National Championships in competitive cheerleading. Since 2015, the Bucs have graduated over 600 student-athletes, produced over 400 NJCAA Academic All-Americans, and placed thousands of student-athletes on the ACCC Commissioners’ Honor Roll. For more information about Shelton State, visit www.sheltonstate.edu.
About Bibb Medical Center
Bibb Medical Center, located in Centreville, Alabama, has served Bibb County and surrounding communities since April 12, 1957. As a community-focused healthcare provider, BMC is committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves by providing quality care close to home. BMC offers a broad range of healthcare services and resources, including 24-hour emergency care, primary care, specialty clinics, diagnostic services, rehabilitation and physical therapy, pharmacy services, wellness and fitness programs, senior living, and more. Through its various services and programs, BMC strives to meet the diverse healthcare needs of individuals and families throughout the region while building lasting relationships with the community. Beyond patient care, BMC recognizes the importance of investing in the future of healthcare by encouraging education, career exploration, and professional development. The organization is committed to sharing its knowledge, experience, and resources to help students discover the many opportunities available in the healthcare field. By supporting educational initiatives and providing opportunities to learn about healthcare careers, BMC hopes to inspire future healthcare professionals and strengthen the workforce that will care for generations to come. With nearly seven decades of service, Bibb Medical Center remains dedicated to its community, the advancement of healthcare, and the continued growth and development of healthcare opportunities throughout the region. For more information about Bibb Medical Center and its services, visit www.bibbmedicalcenter.com.
About Bibb County Schools
Located in the heart of Centreville, Alabama, Bibb County Schools is committed to providing a supportive, high-quality educational experience where every student can learn, grow, and succeed. We are proud to partner with our families and community to inspire excellence, build character, and prepare students for a bright future. For more information, visit https://www.bibbed.org/
Contacts:
Ashleigh Smith
Shelton State Community College
Director of Media and Communication
205.391.2959
aasmith@sheltonstate.edu
Molly Bush
Bibb Medical Center
Marketing Coordinator
205.926.4881
mbush@bibbmedicalcenter.com
Kevin Cotner
Superintendent
Bibb County Schools
205.926.9881
cotnerk@bibbed.org
