Tuscaloosa, AL — Anchor Tuscaloosa, a collaborative initiative powered by FuelAL, is proud to announce the students selected for its 2026 cohort, a competitive program designed to connect emerging leaders with the people, places, and opportunities shaping West Alabama’s future.
Anchor Tuscaloosa is bringing together key community partners including The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority, and Visit Tuscaloosa.
Following a rigorous selection process that included a written application and personal interview, the 2026 cohort represents an exceptional group of students from diverse academic backgrounds and career paths. Participants were chosen based on their strong interest in remaining in West Alabama after graduation, demonstrated community involvement, unique perspectives, and career goals that align with Tuscaloosa’s continued growth and vitality. Selected students also stood out for being engaging, open-minded, and eager to build meaningful connections within the community.
“Anchor Tuscaloosa’s 2026 cohort reflects the talent, curiosity, and commitment that will help shape the future of our region,” said Kyle South, President and CEO of The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. “These students are already invested in West Alabama, and we are excited to support them as they explore ways to build their lives and careers here.”
The five-session program will kick off January 16, 2026 and will provide participants with exposure to local leaders, employers, and community organizations, while highlighting the professional and personal opportunities available in Tuscaloosa and the greater West Alabama region.
Anchor Tuscaloosa aims to strengthen the local talent pipeline by helping students envision a future in the community and equipping them with the relationships and knowledge needed to stay and thrive.
The 2026 Anchor Tuscaloosa cohort includes the following students:
- The University of Alabama: Staten Baker; Woods Hobbs; Griffin McKinney; Danielle Boone; Emma Honer; John McKinney; Lili Brazil; Leela Hudnall; Makayla McLaughlin; Anika Clark; Kim Jacks; Idris Mohammed; Emma Claire Cost; Tamia Jackson; Honorine Ntoh Yuh; Isabella Dini; Meghan Kellem; Luke Pollock; Armani Dixon; Lauren Kronk; Jackson Quarles; Summer Fields; Madelynn Lane; Jackson Shue; Ormarion Fowler; Anthony Laughlin; Danielle Toland; Aaliyah Gates; Roman Lott; Meleah Treadaway; Caroline Geba; Jerrold Lovejoy, Jr.; Neil Vashi; Grace Gower; Sam McKinney; Jayla Winston.
- Stillman College: Symone Carlton; Shania Dortch.
For more information, visit anchortuscaloosa.com.
For Media Contact:
Barkley P. Garrett
M: (205) 632-8999
E: barkley@westalabamachamber.com
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