Angelina College was founded on September 24, 1966 with construction of the original seven building campus having begun in November 1967. Angelina College first opened its doors to students in the fall of 1968. Dr. Jack Hudgins was elected the first president of Angelina College December 12, 1966 by the trustees. Hudgins stepped down in 1991 and was succeeded by Dr. Larry Phillips, the current president. Hudgins remained on campus as a part-time music instructor. To honor his tenure as the president, the fine arts building was renamed Hudgins Hall in 2001.