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The Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) held its quarterly meeting in December 2024, addressing pressing academic, budgetary, and workforce issues impacting the state. Sarah Ortbal, a civil engineer and Ph.D. student at the University of Alabama, presented her research on water quality and the accurate characterization of contaminants. Ortbal shared her progress in building an interactive dataset for tracking Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Alabama, a project she hopes will aid in developing informed water management policies. Ortbal, who also earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Alabama, emphasized the potential impact of her work on public health and environmental stewardship.
The Commission also considered the renewal of the Master of Training in Athletic Training program at the University of West Alabama (UWA). Chris King, Chair of the Alabama Board of Athletic Trainers, outlined the critical shortage of athletic trainers in the state and their importance in supporting athletes and ensuring safety at both high school and collegiate sporting events. ACHE Chair Amy Price highlighted the acute shortages in rural counties. Following their remarks, the Commission approved the program’s continuation, with a follow-up review scheduled for seven years.
Executive Director Jim Purcell provided updates on recent outreach activities, including his participation in state leader convenings hosted by the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB). He noted that the implementation of artificial intelligence remains a key focus in higher education and shared insights into the economic challenges faced by Alabama’s workforce regions. Purcell emphasized the importance of educational attainment in fostering economic transformation across the state.
The Commission approved an agency budget request of $77,859,213 for fiscal year 2025-26 and a consolidated budget recommendation of $2,556,883,847 for all public colleges and universities in Alabama. This budget represents a six percent increase from the previous year, aimed at addressing critical needs in higher education and workforce development.
Several new academic programs were approved to expand educational opportunities and address workforce shortages. Athens State University will offer a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management. Troy University received approval for Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Management as well as Risk Management and Insurance. The University of South Alabama will introduce a Master of Science in Applied Statistics. Chattahoochee Valley Community College gained approval for an Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology, while Enterprise State Community College will offer a Certificate in Cosmetology. Northeast Alabama Community College will add Associate of Applied Science programs in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Medical Laboratory Technology.
The meeting underscored the Commission’s commitment to advancing higher education and addressing workforce gaps through innovative research, academic program expansions, and strategic investment in Alabama’s educational infrastructure.
