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Hanceville Today
By the People, for the People
Wallace State Launches Lions' Village to Support Student-Parents
New residential community and childcare center aims to address barriers to college access and success for student-parents.
Published on Feb. 19, 2026
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Wallace State Community College is developing the Wallace State Lions' Village, a residential community designed specifically for student-parents. The project will include 10 micro-dwellings with plans to expand to 20 units, as well as an on-site childcare center. The goal is to provide affordable housing and accessible childcare to help student-parents overcome two of the biggest obstacles they face in pursuing higher education.
Why it matters
Student-parents are one of the fastest growing yet most underserved student populations. Lack of affordable housing and childcare access are major barriers that prevent many student-parents from enrolling in or completing college. The Lions' Village aims to address these challenges and support student success, ultimately creating lasting, generational change for families.
The details
The micro-dwellings in the Lions' Village will be around 500 square feet and built to residential building codes, forming a planned community focused on walkability, family functionality, and proximity to campus services. The on-site childcare center will have four classrooms and a designated tornado shelter. Partners like Community Action Partnership of North Alabama, local housing authorities, and community organizations will provide wraparound services and resources to support the student-families.
- The project received $2.54 million in Congressionally Directed Spending through Congressman Robert Aderholt in 2026.
- Construction on the Lions' Village is expected to begin in 2026.
The players
Suzanne Harbin
Vice president for advancement and innovation at Wallace State Community College, who shared details about the project's vision and goals.
Congressman Robert Aderholt
The U.S. Representative for Alabama's 4th congressional district, who secured federal funding for the Lions' Village development.
Community Action Partnership of North Alabama (CAPNA)
A partner organization that will contribute expertise in early childhood education and housing program management.
What they’re saying
“The Wallace State Lions' Village is an innovative residential community designed specifically for student-parents — one of the fastest growing, yet most underserved, student populations.”
— Suzanne Harbin, Vice President for Advancement and Innovation, Wallace State Community College (The Cullman Tribune)
“Congressman Aderholt's support was the catalyst that moved this project from a vision to a fully funded initiative.”
— Suzanne Harbin, Vice President for Advancement and Innovation, Wallace State Community College (The Cullman Tribune)
What’s next
Construction on the Wallace State Lions' Village is expected to begin in 2026 after the project received $2.54 million in federal funding.
The takeaway
The Wallace State Lions' Village represents a comprehensive approach to supporting student-parents, addressing both affordable housing and accessible childcare needs. By creating a community-supported ecosystem of services, the college aims to remove barriers to higher education and help student-families achieve long-term stability and success.
