Gary L. Branch - 1997

Gary L. Branch, a native of Birmingham, was named president of Faulkner State Community College in 1981 after serving as President of Brewer State Junior College.  Under his leadership and guidance the College?s image and reputation for athletic excellence is unsurpassed in the State.  His dedication to all aspects of college life from the Executive Board Room to the College?s athletic teams has won him the respect and love of the faculty, staff, and students. 

Gary is committed to a quality athletic program not only for Faulkner State, but for the State as a whole,  He was single-handedly responsible for the establishment of the women?s softball program in the State.  He has worked closely with all aspects of the athletic organizations both state-wide and nationally to see that quality programs exist in the State.  Gary?s service with the Alabama Junior and Community College Conference spans almost a decade, beginning as Secretary-Treasurer in 1989.  He has served as President of the Association since 1990.  His continued service as President signifies the respect that coaches and athletic directors around the State have for Gary.  His philosophy stresses that athletes function as ambassadors of the College, and support for athletics is encouraged campus-wide and state-wide.  The number of times Faulkner State has hosted regional and state tournaments is testimony to his level of commitment to athletics.  Under Gary?s leadership the basketball teams have captured twelve state titles and gone to national three times, and the softball and volleyball teams are consistently vying for state and national honors.  Also, the athletic program underwent expansion with the addition of men?s and women?s tennis and golf while Gary has been president.  These programs have been ranked among the State?s best in their relatively sort existence.  Faulkner State won the All Sports Award for 1993-1994.  This award is given in recognition for the best overall performance of the athletic teams at the respective institution.  This high standard of quality is true of the cheerleading squad as well.  The squad participates in national competitions annually and has been national champions twice.  The Faulkner State teams are second to none in the quality of athletes, the quality of facilities, the quality of equipment and the quality of support, all of which are a direct reflection of the philosophy of Gary Branch.  The community support for Faulkner State athletics is unrivaled. 

The belief that a complete student is one that is well rounded both educationally and athletically is what makes Faulkner State such a unique place; a place where students want to be; a place where students are part of the family; a place students call home.  Gary L. Branch has molded Faulkner State into that special place - a college known for its tradition, excellence, pride and championships both in the classroom and in the areas of athletic competition.