DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Wallace Community College-Dothan has received more than $4 million from the Alabama Community College System to support student scholarships, workforce training and academic programs, according to the college.
The funding includes more than $2.4 million in grants and $1,618,012 for dual enrollment during the 2026-27 academic year. The dual enrollment award will provide comprehensive scholarships for about 1,850 participants, along with online science course toolkits and protective equipment for welding students.
“These investments from the Alabama Community College System directly support our mission to provide students with accessible, high-quality education and training that prepares them for what comes next,” said WCCD President Dr. Kathy Murphy.
“From helping high school students begin their college education through Dual Enrollment to investing in state-of-the-art equipment and high-demand workforce programs, these funds will create opportunities for students throughout the Wiregrass. We are grateful for ACCS’s continued investment in Wallace, our students and the communities we serve.”
The grants include $488,403 for automation and robotics equipment through Wiregrass FAME and $402,100 to replace 50 aging welding machines at the Wallace Campus in Dothan and Sparks Campus in Eufaula.
Another $421,900 will help expand Automotive Technology through updated equipment, increased capacity and support for industry certification testing.
A $482,844 grant will establish a short-term Biomedical Equipment Technology certificate program. It will combine existing industrial systems and health sciences resources with work-based learning involving regional health care partners.
Licensed practical nursing programs will receive $297,160 for four lifelike patient simulators. The equipment will serve skills labs at the Sparks Campus and Wallace’s upcoming instructional site at Dale Medical Center in Ozark.
An additional $121,200 will expand hands-on LPN training and help reduce financial barriers for students. A $58,518 STEAM grant will replace outdated microscopes used in Biology 104, a course required for health sciences programs.
The awards also support a success coach serving low-income and first-generation students in Barbour, Bullock and Henry counties and at Eufaula High School. Funding for a career coordinator will help Wallace students explore careers and connect with employers.
