Henry "Hank" Louis Aaron (1934-2021), renowned for his achievements in the American League as a professional baseball player, and his wife, Billye Aaron (1936-present), have left an indelible mark at Talladega College through the establishment of an endowed scholarship. Hank Aaron's legacy is marked by numerous records in baseball and the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom bestowed upon him by President George W. Bush in 2002, recognizing his philanthropic and humanitarian efforts.
Together, Billye and Hank initiated the Hank Aaron Chasing the Dream Foundation, dedicated to providing scholarships to underprivileged youth, symbolizing their commitment to empowering future generations. After a distinguished career in public media, Billye Aaron persists as an impassioned activist, a beacon of inspiration, and a dedicated public servant, continuing to make an enduring impact on society.
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968) and Reverend Andrew Jackson Young (1932-present) first crossed paths in 1957 at the Founders' Day celebration of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity at Talladega College. Dr. King was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, known for his highly visible leadership, while Rev. Young played an integral role as an early leader in the movement.
Rev. Young's contributions have been widely celebrated through numerous awards and recognitions. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed him as an ambassador to the United Nations.
Their legacy is commemorated with side-by-side busts in a garden, placed atop a single pedestal. A striking bas-relief bronze plaque, fashioned after a photograph taken during their historic meeting at Talladega, adorns the pedestal, capturing the essence of their connection and shared mission in the Civil Rights Movement.
Dr. Arthur "Art" Bacon (1937-2023) was a multifaceted individual—a visual artist, scientist, proud alumnus of Talladega College, and a dedicated educator, all while being an influential figure in the Civil Rights movement. His attained his M.S. and Ph.D. from Howard University then returned to his alma mater, Talladega College, where he became the dean of natural sciences and mathematics and eventually vice president for academic affairs.
In an event that would underscore the racial tensions of the time, Bacon was viciously attacked and assaulted on January 2, 1961, at the Southern Railways train station in Anniston, Alabama, because he sat in the Whites Only waiting room. Four days later, students from Talladega College marched in Anniston to protest against the attack.
For almost four decades, Bacon served Talladega College with dedication. His commitment culminated in being honored as a professor emeriti, a testament to his invaluable contributions and lasting legacy within the academic community.
Hank Thomas (1941-present) is a pivotal figure among the original Freedom Riders, whose dedication contributed to the desegregation of public transportation. On Mother's Day 1961, Thomas was included in a group of Black and White Freedom Riders aboard a Greyhound Bus when it was violently assaulted by a mob of White protestors at the Anniston, Alabama bus station. The situation escalated when the bus was bombed six miles outside Anniston. Thomas was subjected to a brutal beating while fleeing the engulfing flames.
In recognition of his enduring commitment and contributions, Thomas was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Talladega College during the 136th Commencement Exercises in 2011. He has also served on the Talladega College Board of Trustees.
Thomas, a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, notably received the Purple Heart for his valiant service. Presently, he is a successful businessman, entrepreneur, and role model for present and future generations.
