From the President

Welcome to the Summer 2026 Semester at Wallace State Community College!

Summer at Wallace State brings a special rhythm to campus—a more relaxed, flexible atmosphere that gives students room to focus, explore and take meaningful steps toward their goals. Whether you're catching up, getting ahead, or beginning your college journey, summer is the perfect time to invest in your future.

We’re especially excited to welcome returning students who are continuing their programs and new students who are joining us for the first time. Summer classes offer smaller groups, lighter traffic, and a quieter campus environment, creating the ideal setting for deeper learning and personal connection. Whether you're a first-time college student, dual enrollment student, adult learner, or someone retraining for a new career, you’ll find support, encouragement, and community here.

Students attending classes this summer will also see firsthand the growth happening across the college. Major construction projects are underway— including the new STEM Gateway building, and expanded facilities for Machine Tool Technology and Advanced Automotive Services. These projects represent our continued investment in modern, high-quality learning spaces designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce.

In addition to the major construction projects already underway, students will soon notice exciting renovations beginning at two of our most frequently used campus hubs—the Wellness Center and the Garlan E. Gudger Sr. Student Center. These updates will modernize both facilities with improved spaces for student activities, recreation, wellness services, and campus life. Once completed, these refreshed environments will offer more inviting, functional areas for studying, socializing, exercising, and gathering as a community. We appreciate your patience during the renovation period and look forward to unveiling these enhanced spaces in the months ahead.

Wallace State continues to expand academic offerings with innovative new programs launching this year. The Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant program begins its first full cycle, joining recent additions such as Radiation Therapy, Artificial Intelligence Programming, Cloud Computing, Systems Engineering Technology, Digital Fabrication, and expanded Culinary Arts and Nutrition Management options. Enhancements to Health Information Technology now include Revenue Cycle Management and Database Management, and our Nursing program continues to grow through evening cohorts and joint enrollment partnerships with UAB and Athens State University.

Students also benefit from earn-and-learn opportunities available year-round— including apprenticeships in Child Development and Nursing, the FAME program for industrial maintenance, and internship placements with area businesses. These programs allow students to gain valuable skills and income while completing their studies.

Support services remain fully available during the summer semester, including success advising, mental health counseling, tutoring, technology loans, emergency financial assistance, and access to our free food pantry. Many offices also continue to offer virtual assistance to make it easier to stay connected, even with a busy summer schedule.

Whether you’re taking one class or a full course load, now is a great time to plan ahead. Review the Summer 2026 offerings, meet with a success advisor to map your Pathway and transfer goals, and explore the many resources available to help you succeed. Visit our website, use the Wallace State mobile app, or stop by Lion Central for in-person support.

We look forward to spending the summer with you and celebrating all the progress you’ll make. Here’s to a productive, inspiring, and successful Summer 2026 at Wallace State!

Vicki P. Karolewics
President