Birmingham-Southern’s class of 2026 returns to the Hilltop to honor graduation

Around 65 members of the former Birmingham-Southern College class of 2026 reunited on campus ahead of their upcoming graduation ceremonies.

The gathering was organized by Houston Hartley, a Samford University student, and drew students from several other colleges, including:

• University of Alabama at Birmingham
• University of Alabama
• Georgia College
• Centre College

Members of the Birmingham-Southern community have continued to keep the student, faculty, staff and alumni network as tight knit as possible through organizing events both in Birmingham and out of town.

“We are so proud of these young people, who chose BSC and then had to pivot to other institutions to complete their undergraduate degrees. They’ve met a big and unexpected challenge with courage and heart. And wherever they go, they’ll take a part of BSC with them.”

Virginia Gilbert Loftin, Vice President for Advancement and Communication at Birmingham-Southern College

When they graduate this May, many of these students will don gold BSC stoles, signifying their devotion to their former school.

Forward ever at Samford

When BSC closed in 2024, 13 colleges and universities across Alabama raised their hands to help Birmingham-Southern students, including Samford University. 151 BSC students chose Samford.

“Everyone had to find a place to finish their education or start a new job without the comfort of the close community they found at BSC.

Our students have been welcomed at dozens of institutions, but by far the largest group is at Samford, and I’m sure being with people they know helped many of them settle in.”

Daniel Coleman, Former President, Birmingham-Southern College, to Bham Now in 2025

Last year, 63 Samford transfer students had a similar gathering on Birmingham-Southern’s campus, as they returned to ring the bell tower to mark the completion of their studies.

The Hilltop’s future

In early March, the U.S. Coast Guard announced its intention to purchase the former campus of Birmingham-Southern College to create its newest training center in Alabama.

Until that announcement earlier this year, the future of its 192-acre campus on the northwest corner of Birmingham was up in the air. Both Miles College and Alabama A&M expressed interest in purchasing the campus, but neither finalized a deal.

For news, events and more happening around Birmingham, sign up for our FREE newsletter.