Gadsden State launches Cardinal Promise campaign to expand access and affordability

Gadsden, Ala. – Gadsden State Community College has launched the Cardinal Promise, a new scholarship campaign designed to make higher education more accessible for students across the region by significantly reducing tuition costs and expanding scholarship opportunities.
 
Through the Cardinal Promise, students who have earned a high school diploma or GED may qualify for 50% off tuition, helping remove financial barriers for individuals seeking to start or continue their college education.
 
In addition, 2026 graduating high school seniors who have completed at least six credit hours of dual enrollment at any institution are eligible to receive 75% off tuition, creating a clear and affordable pathway from high school to college.
 
“The Cardinal Promise reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and making college attainable for every family,” said Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College. “Cost should never be the reason a student delays or abandons their educational goals.”
 
The Cardinal Promise works alongside Gadsden State’s existing financial aid programs and a wide range of additional scholarship opportunities available to both current students and graduating high school seniors. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, technical or career-related accomplishments, leadership and extracurricular involvement, and talents in areas such as fine arts or athletics.
 
“Our goal is simple,” Smith said. “We want students to see Gadsden State as an affordable starting point that leads to real opportunity, whether that means entering the workforce or continuing toward a four-year degree.”
 
Students are encouraged to explore eligibility requirements, deadlines, and scholarship options by visiting www.gadsdenstate.edu/scholarships or contacting the Office of Financial Aid via email at finaid@gadsdenstate.edu or by phone (256) 549-8284.