[mpoverlay]NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal was a recent guest at Talladega College, addressing students and community members on the potential of the school and the value of education. O’Neal, the nephew of TC president Billy Hawkins, also committed to returning to the college to assist with fundraising and sharing the value of the school with others.

O’Neal described the students as “dedicated” and encouraged them to “follow their dreams.”

O’Neal said he wants the community to recognize the historical importance of the school, which was established in 1867, saying the college was where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and civil rights activist Andrew Young first met.

“There’s a lot of history here,” O’Neal said. (The Daily Home)

O’Neal’s appearance comes just one month before Talladega’s annual scholarship concert.[/mpoverlay]

Shaquille O'Neal Talladega College