HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Wallace State Community College hosted the unveiling of a portrait of Dr. Garlan E. Gudger Sr., on Thursday, July 20, in the student center that bears his name on the campus in Hanceville.
Gudger served as the first dean of students at Wallace State from 1976 to 1996, where he was instrumental in the college’s growth. His wife, Dot Gudger, was the college’s first business education instructor.
According to Wallace State Community College President Dr. Vicki Karolewics, the student center itself was built under Dr. Gudger’s supervision, capturing his vision for student life at Wallace State. The decision to name the student center in his honor was made to recognize his hard work and commitment to the college and the community. The student center was officially named in October 2020.
Cullman City Council President Dr. Jenny Folsom was on-hand for the unveiling. She mentioned Dr. Gudger’s emphasis on student discipline and the positive impact he had on students. According to Folsom, through Dr. Gudger’s dedication and guidance, many students learned valuable lessons and were motivated to avoid repeating their mistakes.
His son, Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, spoke about his father’s legacy of perseverance and compassion. He emphasized his father’s belief in everyone’s potential and the importance of striving to be the best version of oneself. He said his father, despite facing hardships, worked tirelessly to provide for his family and pursued education alongside his passion for sports. Gudger Jr. acknowledged that the impact his father made on people’s lives continues, and he expressed his gratitude for having been his son.
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