Hello Benny, It would appear that Shorter College was named after Alfred Shorter. When I first read your text I was betting it was named after John G. Shorter who was the Governor of Alabama during the WBTS from 1861-1863.

Many times an attorney was given the honorary title as Colonel as also was a merchant. Of course he could have been in the militia also. In Kentucky however the governor could bestow the name of Colonel to anyone and they often did. Colonel Sanders and his fried chicken being a prime example.

Knowing where Alfred Shorter lived in America might help you with your answer.