Gov. Kay Ivey has warmly commended the Alabama Legislature for its recent approval to establish the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences, set to be located in Demopolis. This development follows Governor Ivey’s strong advocacy for the project, which she highlighted as a priority in her State of the State Address earlier this year.
“The establishment of the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences in Demopolis marks a significant step forward in educational innovation and healthcare readiness in our state,” said Governor Ivey. “This specialty high school will serve as a beacon of opportunity for students from across Alabama, particularly those from rural areas, offering them direct pathways into high-demand healthcare careers.”
Governor Ivey extended her gratitude to key legislative figures including Sen. Bobby Singleton, Rep. Cynthia Almond, and others, acknowledging their crucial support for the initiative. She also expressed appreciation for the overwhelming community and institutional backing from Demopolis and healthcare entities throughout Alabama.
“I am honored that the state of Alabama chose my district to house this new school,” said Singleton. “This school will give communities throughout the state, along with hospitals and doctors’ offices a steady stream of trained medical professionals and staff.”
In her address, Governor Ivey elaborated on the strategic importance of the school, which aims to provide young Alabamians with options ranging from immediate employment upon graduation to pursuing further education in medical fields. The school’s location in Demopolis was reaffirmed as ideal following a positive feasibility study, which assessed various factors to ensure the site’s suitability.
Rob Pearson, Chairman of the ASHS Foundation, praised Governor Ivey’s commitment to the project, noting the collaborative efforts that have led to securing a substantial $26.4 million funding pledge from Bloomberg Philanthropies. This funding is contingent on the school’s establishment in Demopolis and represents a historic philanthropic investment in the region.
Demopolis Mayor Woody Collins also expressed his gratitude and readiness to support the high school, emphasizing the community’s commitment to the success of this project and its role in nurturing future healthcare professionals.
With the legislative approval in place, the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences is poised to become a cornerstone of healthcare education in Alabama, promising to enhance the state’s healthcare workforce significantly in the coming years.
