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Miles College

Fairfield, AL

private nonprofitHBCUbachelors

Quick Facts

“Sapientia et Pax et Amor Omnibus”(Wisdom and Peace and Love for all.)

1898
Founded
Private historically black college
Type
1,500
Total Students
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Bobbie Knight

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Miles College

Miles College: A historic HBCU empowering future leaders with a legacy of resilience and community.

Miles College, a private historically black college, stands as a beacon of education and opportunity in Fairfield, Alabama. Established in 1898, it has cultivated a vibrant community of approximately 1500 students, fostering an environment rooted in its inspiring motto: "Sapientia et Pax et Amor Omnibus" – Wisdom and Peace and Love for All. Here, students don't just earn a degree; they become part of a rich tapestry of history and a forward-looking movement.

The college's journey began with the vision of the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church (now the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church), honoring Bishop William H. Miles, a remarkable individual born into slavery who later found freedom. From its humble beginnings in Booker City, Alabama, to its present-day campus, Miles College has weathered significant challenges, including the Great Depression, thanks to resilient leadership. This enduring spirit of perseverance is a core part of the Miles College identity, preparing students to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

In recent years, Miles College has continued to make strides under dynamic leadership. Dr. Bobbie Knight, the institution's first female president, is spearheading ambitious initiatives, including a $100 million fundraising effort. This vision for growth is supported by significant contributions, such as the historic $1 million donation from Alabama native Charles Barkley in 2020, the largest single gift the school has ever received. Miles College is dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience, ensuring its students are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to society and lead with wisdom, peace, and love.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1898 by the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, becoming a historically black college (HBCU).
  • ✦Serves a vibrant student body of approximately 1500 individuals.
  • ✦Motto: "Sapientia et Pax et Amor Omnibus" (Wisdom and Peace and Love for All).
  • ✦Received a historic $1 million donation from Charles Barkley in 2020, the largest single gift in its history.
  • ✦Led by its first female president, Dr. Bobbie Knight, who is spearheading a $100 million fundraising initiative.

Timeline

1893
Organization efforts for the college began.
1898
Founded as Miles Memorial College by the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church.
1907
Moved from Booker City to its present campus in Fairfield, Alabama.
1911
Awarded its first bachelor's degrees.
1941
Name officially changed from Miles Memorial College to Miles College.
2020
Received a historic $1 million donation from Charles Barkley.
🏛️
128 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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