07/16/26
Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation Welcomes Five New Members to Board of Directors
GADSDEN, Ala. — The Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation has appointed five accomplished community leaders to its Board of Directors, further strengthening the Foundation's commitment to supporting Gadsden State Community College through philanthropy, community engagement and advocacy for student success.
As the College's charitable organization, the Cardinal Foundation provides scholarships, supports academic and workforce development programs, funds innovative initiatives and helps remove financial and other barriers that prevent students from achieving their educational and career goals. The Foundation's volunteer Board of Directors plays an essential role in advancing that mission by connecting the College with community partners and supporters.
"We are honored to welcome these outstanding leaders to the Cardinal Foundation Board of Directors," said Hillary Folsom, director of advancement and alumni relations for Gadsden State. "Each has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving our community. Their professional expertise, leadership and passion for education will help us create even more opportunities for our students while strengthening the programs that make Gadsden State such an important resource for our region."
The Foundation welcomes the following new board members:
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Phillip Hall
Philip is president and CEO of the Etowah Chamber. He brings extensive experience in business leadership, public policy and community development, along with a strong commitment to workforce development and economic growth. A graduate of Westbrook Christian School, the University of Alabama and Birmingham School of Law, Hall has dedicated his career to strengthening Etowah County's business community. His work fostering partnerships between education and industry closely aligns with Gadsden State's mission to prepare students for successful careers.
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Tena King
Tena serves as director of city services for the City of Gadsden and owns King's Olive Oil Company. Throughout her career, she has championed education, youth development and community service. Her leadership experience includes positions with The University of Alabama's Gadsden Center, the Anniston Community Education Foundation, Project GRAD LA and several organizations focused on educational access and student success. Holding three degrees from Jacksonville State University, King brings extensive experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership and community engagement to the Foundation.
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Gil Isbell
Gil is a respected business owner, former Alabama legislator and longtime civic leader with decades of experience in business management and public service. A graduate of Gadsden State, Auburn University and Jacksonville State University, Isbell has remained active in the community through organizations including the Kiwanis Club of Gadsden, The Salvation Army of Etowah County and his local church. His background in public service and economic development will provide valuable insight as the Foundation continues expanding opportunities for students.
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Gail Minshew
Gail is a qualifying broker with Keller Williams Gadsden, has served the local real estate community for nearly 30 years while maintaining an active role in numerous civic and nonprofit organizations. As a member of Gadsden State's first graduating class, she represents the lasting impact of the College on its graduates and community. Minshew has served with Community Action of Etowah County, United Way, Baptist Health Services, the Etowah Baptist Association and as a four-term councilwoman for the Town of Reece City. Her lifelong connection to Gadsden State and dedication to community service make her a valuable addition to the Board.
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Tori Parris Stigile
Tori is an attorney, educator, author and musician, who brings a diverse background in law, higher education, ministry and the performing arts. She practices law with her family's firm while serving as a professor at Jacksonville State University and director of the Jax State Show Choir. A graduate of the University of Mobile, Liberty University and Birmingham School of Law, where she graduated summa cum laude, Stigile has built a career centered on leadership, education and service. Her passion for mentoring students and developing future leaders complements the Foundation's mission.
Together, the five new directors represent a broad cross-section of business, education, government, law and nonprofit leadership across Northeast Alabama. Their collective experience will help guide the Foundation as it expands scholarship opportunities, strengthens strategic partnerships and provides resources that enhance the educational experience for thousands of Gadsden State students each year.
"The success of our students depends on dedicated community leaders who believe in the power of education," said Tony Smith, president of the Cardinal Foundation Board of Directors. "We are grateful that Phillip, Tena, Gil, Gail and Tori have chosen to invest their time and talents in the Foundation's mission. Their leadership will help ensure that Gadsden State continues transforming lives, strengthening families and building the workforce our communities need."
The Cardinal Foundation encourages alumni, businesses and community members to support scholarships, academic programs, workforce initiatives and student emergency assistance. Every charitable gift helps remove barriers to higher education and creates opportunities for student success.
For more information about the Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation or to learn about giving opportunities, visit www.cardinalfoundation.org or contact the Foundation Office at (256) 549-8147.