Shelton State Community College Strengthens Partnership with The University of Alabama

January 26, 2022 – The University of Alabama and President Stuart R. Bell recently hosted leaders from community colleges around Alabama, including Shelton State Community College Dean of Student Services Amanda Harbison, as part of UA’s continuous effort to build and nurture the partnership between the Capstone and two-year institutions.

“The University of Alabama views Shelton State Community College as a strategic partner and we’re always looking for new ways to develop this special connection,” said Dr. Matthew McLendon, UA associate vice president and director of enrollment management. “Supporting transfer students is an important part of our enrollment strategy. As the state’s flagship university, it provides us another avenue to serve students.”

During the event held at the President’s Mansion, Harbison and leaders from several community colleges had the opportunity to engage in conversation with Bell on ways to strengthen the bond between their institutions and the University.

“Shelton State is a vital member of the Alabama Community College System, and this partnership with The University of Alabama is simply one way we are committed to creating new opportunities for West Alabama,” states Amanda Harbison, Shelton State’s Dean of Student Services.  “In recent months, we have placed renewed focus on recognizing and meeting the needs of what we consider our “customers.”  As one of our valued customers, we support The University of Alabama and will continue to provide innovative, customized solutions for our students choosing to transfer.”

According to the University’s six-year graduation rate data, 70% of transfer students will earn their undergraduate degree from UA while simultaneously receiving credits for their associate degree they started at their respective community college.

“One immediate value for students who transfer to UA before earning their associate degree is students will have the option to have their University of Alabama credits transferred back to the two-year institution for evaluation and determination of eligibility for an associate degree,” said McLendon.

“Additionally, the overall support services the University provides to the student body, along with our wide range of academic programs, make coming to UA a great choice for those students who wish to earn an undergraduate degree.”

According to the nationally recognized First Destination Survey, 90% of those surveyed in UA’s May 2020 graduating class reported a positive outcome, such as full- or part-time employment, continuing education, military service or volunteer service, following graduation. Some of the top 10 employers included UA, Lockheed Martin, Dell Technologies and Children’s of Alabama, among others.

UA will host the fourth annual ACHIEVE Alabama Transfer Student Success Conference March 2-3. The virtual conference will bring together administrators, faculty and staff from two-year and four-year institutions across the state to foster collaboration to ensure student success and increase college completion rates.

The virtual conference is free and registration is available via the conference website or by calling 205.348.9966. Participants can submit proposals for session presentations until February 1.

UA is a student-centered research university and an academic community united in its commitment to enhance the quality of life for all Alabamians and the citizens of the nation and the world through the creation, translation and dissemination of knowledge with an emphasis on quality programs in the areas of teaching, research and service.

A vital member of the Alabama Community College System, Shelton State Community College is committed to creating new opportunities for West Alabama.  “With a renewed focus on meeting the needs of its customers, the College offers innovative solutions and an enhanced approach to customized education, training, and community impact,” states President Brad Newman.  “Collectively, we will be excellent in each!”

Be part of the new vision for our shared community.  Visit sheltonstate.edu to learn more or apply.