 Norman College came into existence because the people in the Mell
Association in the 1890’s were interested in providing a good education
for their children. While in session in 1897, the Association discussed
establishing a Baptist Preparatory School. A committee was named with
Rev. R.A. Jessup as chairman. Mr. J. B. (Wheeler) Norman, Jr., was also
on this committee. J. B. Norman Several churches made bids for the
school by offering land and money. The Mt. Zion Baptist Church, located
about 1 mile east of the present site of Norman Park, offered $4,000
and 16 acres of land. Mr. J. S. Weeks, Sr. donated the land, while Mr.
J.B. Norman and Mr. K.V. Horne led in monetary gifts from the
congregation. Because of the interest and generosity of the Norman
family, the school founded in 1900, was named Norman Institute.
In 1900 (The same year as the Spanish-American War) the Norman
Institute was started offering grades 1-12. The 1902 –1903 Catalog
lists 281 students. In the mid 1920’s the Junior College curriculum was
added. In 1928 the name was changed to Norman Junior College, and by
1951 the name was again changed to Norman College.
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 Norman College experienced the same financial difficulties that most private schools experience. In the 1960’s the financial problems combined with declining enrollment began to raise questions about the future of the school. At the end of the 70-71 academic school year, the trustees voted to close the school. However, the trustees knew that this vital ministry of education and leadership development in Colquitt County needed to continue.
That same year the trustees transferred the assets and liabilities of the college over to the Georgia Baptist Convention. The Executive Committee of the Georgia Baptist Convention voted to convert the facilities into an assembly. In the summer of 1971 “Norman Baptist Assembly” began operations with the Rev. Garnie A. Brand as manager.
Rev. Paul Peace became manager in 1978 and continued to provide a wonderful and beautiful place for churches and other non-profit groups to come and fellowship, relax, learn and spiritually renew. In 1999, the facility changed its name once again to the Georgia Baptist Conference Center-Norman Park and Bill Townes now serves as the director of the facility continuing its long history of service and ministry.
Additionally, the educational ministry of Norman College continues with the Brewton-Parker College extension night classes being offered on the campus. A four year Elementary Education degree is available at the campus located in Norman Park. A wide variety of classes are offered utilizing local educators and ministers as instructors. Over 100 Students are currently enrolled in the education program.
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