Reid State Technical College has received final state approval to change its name to Reid State Community College, moving the institution closer to full transition pending a final decision in December by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

The Alabama Community College System first approved the name change in July. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education confirmed the next stage of approval on Friday, Sept. 12.

Founded in 1963, Reid State has long served the South Alabama region as a technical college. It was one of the last technical colleges within the Alabama Community College System to begin transitioning to community college status.

The change is expected to broaden the college’s reach beyond academics, with plans to expand athletic programs, workforce development initiatives, and community-based programming to meet local industry needs.

“This is a transformational moment for our college, our students, and our community,” said Dr. Coretta Boykin, President of Reid State. “Becoming a community college means we can expand our academic offerings, support student-athletes with greater opportunities, and strengthen pathways for students to continue their education at four-year institutions. We are grateful for the support of the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees, Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker, and all other approving entities within this process.”

Currently, Reid State offers a mix of transferable courses and non-transferable programs that prepare graduates to enter the workforce directly.

Beginning in January 2026, the college expects to offer transferable Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees under its new name. These programs, pending final SACSCOC approval, would align Reid State’s offerings with other community colleges and four-year universities across Alabama.

Reid State officials said information sessions will be held to update the community on accreditation progress and upcoming degree programs.