Talladega College honors former president Dr. Herman H. Long during homecoming
The HBCU is celebrating 159 years
TALLADEGA, Ala. (WBRC) - A tribute to former Talladega College president Dr. Herman H. Long took place after its homecoming parade Saturday as the historically Black college celebrates 159 years.
Homecoming celebrations were underway at the college. Willie L. Todd Jr., the college’s president and CEO, said, “159 years of academic excellence!”
Long’s tenure at Talladega College
Dr. Herman H. Long was the college’s 10th president.
“He served here from 1961-1976, then went on to work for the United Negro College Fund,” Dr. Todd said.
Long paved the way for future HBCU presidents, including Todd, the current president of Talladega College.
“Talladega has had amazing persons affiliated with our institution throughout our history,” Todd said.
Role in United Negro College Fund slogan
Long helped create the United Negro College Fund’s slogan, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”
Todd said the slogan has become worldwide now and “actually came into fruition under his leadership.”
Alumni who lead colleges and universities
According to Todd, 23 Talladega College alumni are sitting presidents of universities and colleges.
Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.
Copyright 2026 WBRC. All rights reserved.
