Alabama's Rev. Dr. Belinda Bridges Wilson Honored for Lifetime of Service

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rev. Dr. Belinda Bridges Wilson, a native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is being honored as a 2026 Black History Maker for her decades of service in education, ministry, and community leadership. Wilson has over 30 years of experience teaching in local schools, helping to bring African American history into the curriculum, and has been recognized for her teaching excellence. She currently serves as the Assistant Pastor at Holly Springs Missionary Baptist Church and is known as a dynamic preacher, motivational speaker, and advocate for inclusiveness and social justice.

Why it matters

Rev. Dr. Wilson's lifelong commitment to education, faith, and community service exemplifies the important role Black leaders and voices have played in shaping Alabama's history and future. Her work to elevate Black history and culture in schools, provide spiritual guidance, and advocate for equity and progress reflects the ongoing need to recognize and uplift the contributions of the Black community.

The details

Throughout her career, Rev. Dr. Wilson has taught in several counties in West Alabama, including Tuscaloosa, Hale, Greene, and Pickens. In the early 1990s, she helped bring African American history into the Tuscaloosa County School System curriculum as an elective class for middle and high school students. Her efforts were recognized when she was inducted into the Jacksonville State University Teacher Hall of Fame. Currently, Rev. Dr. Wilson serves as the Assistant Pastor at Holly Springs Missionary Baptist Church, where she is known as a dynamic preacher, motivational speaker, and advocate for inclusiveness among diverse populations. She also teaches in the Canaan-Pickensville District Congress of Christian Education, helping others learn about the Bible and develop strong leadership skills for their churches and communities.

• Rev. Dr. Wilson was born and raised in the Taylorville area of Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
• She graduated from Holt High School in Tuscaloosa County.
• Rev. Dr. Wilson earned a B.S. in Education, English/Minor in Sociology from Alabama State University, a Master's from Selma University, and a Doctor of Ministry from the University of Virginia, Lynchburg.
• She has over 30 years of experience teaching in Tuscaloosa, Hale, Greene, and Pickens Counties.
• Rev. Dr. Wilson was recognized in the 5th and 6th Editions of Who's Who Among American Teachers and received the Jacksonville State University Teacher Hall of Fame Award.

What they’re saying