New endowment to honor one of Troy University’s founders
A new endowment will honor one of Troy University’s founders and will be among the first of its kind in the nation.
Troy Bank & Trust is donating $1.5 million to the Sorrell College of Business for the creation of the Troy Bank & Trust Community Banking Endowed Chair in memory of Charles Henderson.
“This Chair will carry Charles Henderson’s legacy forward by investing in future generations of financial leaders who, like him, believe in strengthening local communities through service and enterprise,” Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., said.
“This generous gift is a powerful example of what happens when like-minded institutions are aligned, like TB&T and Troy University, with both truly dedicated to helping their constituents achieve success through dedicated and caring service. It is not by chance that such synergy exists across TB&T, Troy University, and the City of Troy – each is blessed to be direct beneficiaries of one truly extraordinary man, Charles Henderson.”
Henderson was an entrepreneur, philanthropist and former Alabama governor whose vision helped establish Troy University in 1887. Following Henderson’s death in 1937, his will established a perpetual charitable trust that funded the construction of schools in Pike County. Even today, the trust distributes financial support to the Charles Henderson Child Health Center, which provides essential healthcare services to children in need as contemplated in Gov. Henderson’s will.
The Charles Henderson Trust owns more than 51% of the bank which he and others founded in 1906.
The Charles Henderson Chair will help the Sorrell College better serve both students and the banking industry in Alabama, Dean Dr. Judson Edwards said.
“This $1.5 million investment will directly benefit our students by enhancing coursework, delivered by a truly specialized community banking-focused faculty member,” he said. “Through engagement with Alabama banks, this professor will help expand access to internships, mentorships, and real-world banking experiences for our students. Ultimately, this gift ensures TROY students graduate, not only career-ready, but community-minded—being well-prepared to serve Alabama’s financial institutions with skill and integrity.”
