In a significant development for higher education in Alabama, Miles College has officially signed a purchase agreement for the 192-acre campus of Birmingham-Southern College. This unanimous decision by both institutions’ Boards of Trustees follows a letter of intent submitted by Miles shortly after BSC discontinued normal operations on May 31, 2024.
“It is clear that institutions like Miles College continue to serve as powerful engines of economic growth and opportunity,” said Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “For generations, Miles College has been a cornerstone of progress in our community. This opportunity is a significant next step in our vision to lift our college, campus, and community.”
BSC President Daniel B. Coleman echoed these sentiments, highlighting the alignment of missions between the two institutions. “We are very pleased to take this next step with Miles College,” said President Coleman. “Our hope has been to find a buyer whose mission paralleled BSC’s mission of educating young people for lives of service and significance, and whose presence on the Hilltop would also benefit the surrounding communities who have been such good neighbors to BSC for more than 100 years.”
The acquisition presents opportunities for academic expansion, innovation, and research, particularly with Miles recently receiving a $3 million collaborative grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding will support partnerships with notable institutions like Howard University and Tennessee State University, further enhancing educational opportunities.
While the purchase agreement encompasses physical assets, Coleman clarified that BSC will remain operational as a corporate entity during its wind-down phase. Both presidents anticipate a smooth transition, aiming to honor BSC’s legacy while building a promising future at Miles College.
The BSC campus will remain closed to all visitors until further notice.
