ABOUT US
Tuskegee CommuniVersity is a community-rooted learning space where ordinary people come together to do extraordinary things.
We believe knowledge lives everywhere—in our elders, our families, our businesses, our faith communities, our artists, our educators, and our neighbors. Our work is centered on creating opportunities for people to learn from one another, share their stories, strengthen community connections, and turn ideas into action.
Through cultural programming, community research, civic engagement, economic development, and intergenerational learning, we help build a stronger, more connected Tuskegee—one conversation, one project, and one relationship at a time.
At our core, we are a community of learners, builders, dreamers, and doers committed to preserving our history, celebrating our culture, and creating a brighter future together.
Our Mission
The mission of Tuskegee CommuniVersity is to build community-rooted learning spaces where youth, families, residents, and local leaders can study their history, understand their local economy, strengthen civic power, and create solutions for the communities they call home.
Our Vision
Our vision is a Tuskegee and Macon County where young people see themselves as leaders, local businesses are visible and supported, families are connected to resources, and community knowledge is treated as a powerful tool for building freedom, opportunity, and self-determination.
Core Beliefs
01
Community Unity
We believe strong communities are built through collaboration, shared goals, and mutual respect.
02
Self-Determination
We believe communities are best positioned to identify their own needs, define their priorities, and lead their own development.
03
Collective Responsibility
We believe addressing community challenges requires shared effort, accountability, and care across generations.
04
Cooperative Economics
We believe local economic strength grows when resources, opportunities, and investments circulate within the community.
05
Purpose-Driven Action
We believe meaningful work is guided by clear purpose and focused on long-term community well-being.
06
Creative Problem-Solving
We believe in exploring innovative and community-led approaches to overcome systematic barriers and create lasting change.
07
Belief in Community Capacity
We believe in the ability of people, institutions, and partnerships to create sustainable and just outcomes.
Stevie Rae Hicks, MAT, M.Ed., IL(A)
Executive Director
Leading our strategic vision with a focus on historical preservation and civic power.
The CommuniVersity Collective
Tuskegee CommuniVersity is guided by educators, organizers, community builders, students, and partners who believe in the power of culturally rooted learning and community-led development.
Ka'Daja Holcombe
Community Organizer + Economic researcher
Leading by building relationships, organizing with purpose, and turning community ideas into action.
De'Mari Benham
Community Organizer + Economic researcher
Designing cultural programming that celebrates our local heritage and future dreams.
Deirdre Newcomb
Community Organizer + Economic researcher
Strengthening our local economy by supporting community-led business initiatives.