Julius E. Talton

Julius E. Talton is a visionary broadcaster and telecommunications entrepreneur and an exceedingly generous citizen of his community and state.

Born in Montgomery and raised in Selma, Talton worked his way through The University of Alabama. After graduating with a degree in broadcasting, he served for five years as a pilot in the Strategic Air Command and then began a successful career in sales at WAPI in Birmingham, becoming sales manager in just three years.

In 1961 he formed Talton Broadcasting Company and purchased radio stations WHBB and WTUN in Selma. "His stations were ahead of the curve," explains longtime friend Jamie Wallace, president of the Selma—Dallas County Chamber of Commerce. "He operated them as if they were big market stations. His commitment to the community was especially evident in his news and public affairs programming. He said anyone can play music. It’s the other things that make a difference."

Talton anticipated a world in which location would not be the crucial factor in a telecommunication company’s success. In 1973 Talton Communications Corporation was formed and became a leader in the burgeoning mobile telephone and pager industries. His companies purchased additional radio stations, continued to grow, and became involved in outdoor advertising.

"Julius Talton is a strong communicator," says Allen Collins, a UA classmate and business associate. "People are loyal to him because he’s loyal to them." Time and again Talton has demonstrated his loyalty to his hometown, leading the chamber of commerce, Rotary Club, Boy Scouts, Selma City School Board, and Salvation Army, among others. His support has made possible the renovation of the highly acclaimed public library and his contributions have helped Selma’s Tale-Telling Festival become one of the area’s cultural highlights. He’s been active in professional organizations and served as president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association.

He is equally committed to his alma mater. He served The University of Alabama as National Alumni Association president and was named a Sesquicentennial Honorary Professor in the College of Communication and an Outstanding Alumnus of its Department of Telecommunication and Film. He is a member of the President’s Cabinet and serves on the College of Communication and Information Sciences Board of Visitors. He has been unfailingly generous in answering each and every call for service and counsel.

"He’s worked hard, he’s been a leader, and he’s never asked anyone to do anything he wouldn’t do himself," says Collins.