Anchor Tuscaloosa Launched To Promote Student Retention

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Fuel Alabama and other local partners have unveiled a new program aimed at encouraging college students to consider Tuscaloosa County as a place to start their careers.

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Along with Innovate Alabama, the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority (TCEDA), The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, and Visit Tuscaloosa, Fuel Alabama says the Anchor Tuscaloosa initiative will focus on talent attraction and retention for college students, offering community-building activities through five sessions during the spring semester of 2025.

The inaugural program will accept up to 40 participants, with the application window open from Oct. 22 to Dec. 1.

The program is geared toward undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Alabama, Stillman College, and Shelton State Community College who have completed at least 30 credit hours by Dec. 31.

“We understand how important it is to connect with our college students in a meaningful way,” TCEDA Executive Director Justice Smyth. “This program will empower us to engage with students who are interested in making Tuscaloosa their home post-graduation. We’re excited to showcase why Tuscaloosa County is a vibrant place to live and work.”

TCEDA says participants in the program will have the opportunity to experience a “staycation” in the Tuscaloosa area, engage with local and statewide elected officials, and interact with business and nonprofit leaders.

Accepted students will be notified by Dec. 20.

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