Talladega College will celebrate its newest graduates during its Baccalaureate Program on May 3, 2024, at the historic DeForest Chapel. The event will feature Dr. Thomas Beavers, a prominent educator, pastor, and advocate as the keynote speaker.
Serving as a marker for their significant achievements, the Baccalaureate Program offers an opportunity for graduates and their supporters to reflect on the culmination of their academic journeys as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives. The customary tradition gathers faculty, staff, students, families, and other distinguished guests to reflect on the values of academic excellence, moral standards, professional development, and service to society.
Dr. Beavers brings a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration to his role as keynote speaker. His commitment to empowering young minds and fostering positive change in our communities aligns perfectly with the values of Talladega College.
Dr. Beavers is a Birmingham, Alabama native, and a graduate of Minor High School. He received his BS degree in Biology from Kentucky State University, an HBCU institution, where he played basketball and was named Mr. KSU. He earned his Master of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry from the Beeson Divinity School at Samford University.
Succeeding his grandfather, Rev. Dr. Tommy Chappell’s 35-year tenure as church pastor, Dr. Beavers presently serves as the Senior Pastor of New Rising Star Church, affectionately known as “THE STAR” in the Eastlake community of Birmingham, Alabama. Under his leadership in 2022, two other church campuses, The Star, Pell City, and The Star, Sylacauga, were established.
Pastor Beavers is an adjunct professor of Black Church Studies at Grace School of Theology in Woodlands, Texas. He serves as pastors and ministers director of the National Pastoral Organization, The Ambassadors Assembly Network. He is also the author of the book, “The Fight of My Life—Born to Win” and several other eBooks.
He serves on numerous boards, including The NRS Community Development Federal Credit Union, The New Rising Star Community Support Corporation, which all help advance his passions surrounding financial literacy, education, housing, and workforce development. His past board affiliations include REV Birmingham, Work Faith Birmingham, and Christ Health Center. Dr. Beavers is also a nationally known motivational speaker.
However, Dr. Beavers’ greatest interest beyond spreading the gospel is his family. He is married to Candice Beavers, and together they have eight children and four grandchildren.
The Baccalaureate Program featuring Talladega College’s talented graduating students will showcase the rich cultural heritage that defines the institution. It will be a joyous celebration of academic achievement, personal growth, and the boundless potential of the graduating class of 2024.
