Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Appoints Leadership Ahead of 2024 Launch
MONTGOMERY, Ala.—The Board of Trustees for the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences (ASHS) has announced a key set of appointments as the school prepares for its anticipated launch in 2024. This pioneering institution, located in Demopolis, aims to address the significant shortage of healthcare workers in Alabama, a challenge mirrored across the nation.
The school was initially proposed by Governor Kay Ivey during her 2023 State of the State address. Funding took shape with a generous pledge of $26.4 million from Bloomberg Philanthropies, bolstered by an additional $15 million from state lawmakers in the 2025 Education Trust Fund budget.
In a unanimous decision, the Board appointed Laura Bailey as Dean of Curriculum and Instruction, Antonio Cooper Jr. as Dean of Students, and Susanna Speegle as Admissions Director. ASHS President Jimmy Martin praised their expertise, declaring this "dream team" will inspire future leaders and transform lives in the community.
Bailey brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at the Alabama State Department of Education, while Cooper, who specializes in career and technical education, has a strong background in curriculum development at Vestavia Hills City School System. Speegle, currently at Marion Military Institute, excels in enrollment management and recruitment.
Chair Mike Warren emphasized the commitment required for this groundbreaking initiative, which is expected to cost up to $80 million. Construction will commence this September, with a groundbreaking ceremony planned for October.
The school plans to offer a robust curriculum focused on STEM and healthcare, collaborating with Whitfield Regional Hospital. The first freshman class, targeting 100 students, is set to begin classes next fall at the University of West Alabama in Livingston, eventually moving to the new campus in Demopolis in 2027.
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