Miles College

Miles College stands as a proud private historically black college in Fairfield, Alabama, carrying forward a rich legacy of education and community empowerment. Founded in 1898 by the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, now the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Miles College has been a beacon of learning, initially chartered as Miles Memorial College in honor of Bishop William H. Miles, a revered figure who rose from slavery.

The institution began its impactful journey with organization efforts as early as 1893, quickly establishing itself to award its first bachelor's degrees by 1911. After an initial period in Booker City, Alabama, the college strategically relocated to its current campus in Fairfield in 1907, just six miles west of downtown Birmingham. Its history is marked by incredible resilience, notably navigating and surviving the challenging years of the Great Depression under the leadership of President William Augustus Bell.

In 1941, the college solidified its identity by changing its name to Miles College, continuing its commitment to academic excellence. More recently, the college has seen remarkable philanthropic support, highlighted by a significant $1 million donation from Alabama native Charles Barkley in 2020. This historic gift, the largest from a single individual, came under the leadership of the college's first female President, Dr. Bobbie Knight, and is set to propel efforts towards an ambitious $100 million fundraising goal, signaling a vibrant future for its 1500 students.

Miles College continues its enduring mission, embodying its motto "Sapientia et Pax et Amor Omnibus" (Wisdom and Peace and Love for All) by fostering a nurturing environment where students are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society. It remains a vital institution, dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience that honors its historical roots while building towards future success and innovation.