A Message from the President – UA Update on Alabama Act 2024-34 (Senate Bill 129)

• July 23rd, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

The University of Alabama serves a critical role in the growth of the educational, economic and social condition of the State of Alabama and our nation. A significant factor in our success is the continuous development of opportunities for students and employees of all backgrounds and beliefs to access this institution, connect with others, enhance our campus community, and achieve their academic and professional goals.

Recent changes to state and federal laws prompted a comprehensive review of campus programs, resources and initiatives to ensure they are committed to student and employee success and comply with applicable law. It is important to note we will continue to provide resources and support to every member of our campus community, as our commitment to each individual’s success remains steadfast. Among other modifications UA is making to ensure compliance, the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will close.

Our mission has not wavered, and we remain committed to our institutional goals to welcome all, serve all and see all thrive and succeed. To that end, Dr. Christine Taylor will lead the new Division of Opportunities, Connections and Success, an organization charged with promoting success for everyone in the UA community. Dr. Taylor possesses a wealth of experience in the areas of student and employee access, engagement and achievement. Under her leadership, OCS will offer three primary initiatives that support our goal of preparing all students and employees for success on campus and beyond:

• Opportunities – increasing access to higher education through heightened academic support and services to Alabama students and families with lower college attendance rates.
• Connections – fostering campuswide initiatives on free speech and civil discourse.
• Success – preparing students for the global workforce by enhancing skills and competencies sought by employers and by helping students and employees understand and effectively work with individuals from varying backgrounds.

More information is available on the new division’s website.

Information related to Alabama Act 2024-34 (formerly SB 129) is available online, and additional details and guidance will be shared in the weeks ahead as we approach the Oct. 1 enforcement date. Some website updates and other processes may take time to go into effect. We appreciate The University of Alabama System leadership, including legal and government affairs, and their guidance throughout this process to help ensure our mission of teaching, research and service remains the priority.

Differences, including differences of opinion shared with civility, strengthen our campus community. Our faculty, staff and students will continue to engage in free speech, exercise academic freedom, and join in wide-ranging thought and discussion on issues that impact our world.

UA has seen tremendous gains over the past decade — in enrollment and in creating an atmosphere where every individual, regardless of background, can be successful. We graduate more students than any other institution in the state, building an even stronger workforce and contributing to a growing economy and more engaged society. That commitment remains as strong as ever, and our institutional goals remain steadfastly dedicated to providing resources to equip all members of our campus community. We will continue to assess how we can best serve our campus community and achieve those goals, and I appreciate every student, faculty and staff member who works diligently to support these efforts.

Stuart R. Bell  
President

A Message from the President – June 25, 2024

• June 25th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌As the summer semester progresses, I am inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of our UA community. Our students, faculty and staff remain deeply engaged in meaningful work, driving forward our mission of exemplary teaching, innovative research and impactful service.

‌Congratulations to the 13,103 students named to the dean’s list (GPA 3.5 or higher) and the president’s list (4.0 GPA) for the Spring 2024 Semester. Commendations to John Richardson, a May 2024 graduate, who is one of only four nationwide named an Eisenhower Global Scholar and UA’s first recipient of this award. And, “well done” to graduate student Ethan Iaia, who received a prestigious fellowship from the Department of Energy’s Office of Science to study catalysts for clean energy and decarbonization at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

‌Kudos, as well, to the UA Astrobotics team for their outstanding performance in NASA’s Lunabotics Challenge by earning first place in robot autonomy, second in mining/construction and second for their technical paper, securing a first-place finish overall. And, best of luck to the 12 UA students competing for the title of Miss Alabama 2024 this week. We are proud of your representation.

‌UA faculty and staff also continue to impress. Four faculty members have been honored with the NSF CAREER Award, one of the National Science Foundation’s most prestigious accolades for early-career faculty.

‌Near the end of the spring semester, we celebrated the opening of the Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership in Tuomey Hall. Applications for the inaugural class of Shelby Scholars are open until July 15. This nonpartisan, interdisciplinary and credit-bearing program trains future leaders through experiential learning, research and civic engagement. All eligible students are encouraged to apply.

‌Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our community and beyond.

‌Roll Tide!

‌Stuart R. Bell
‌President

A Message from the President – June 11, 2024

• June 11th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear UA Community,

‌

Your safety and well-being matter. Here at The University of Alabama, we provide numerous resources and support related to preventing, reporting and responding to any form of sexual misconduct. Please review the vital resources available here to help promote and maintain a safe, respectful campus environment:

‌

• UAPD: Reach out to The University of Alabama Police Department at 205-348-5454 or visit 1110 Jackson Ave. for 24/7 assistance.
• Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs: Report sexual misconduct and access support at 2418 Capital Hall or contact Jessica Humber at 205-348-5496 or titleix@ua.edu.
• Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy: Learn about prohibited conduct, reporting, support and preventive efforts.
• Women and Gender Resource Center: Call 205-348-5040 for confidential advocacy and counseling (after hours, contact UAPD).
• Additional Counseling Services: Explore services provided by the Counseling Center, Capstone Family Therapy Clinic, Employee Assistance Program and Tuscaloosa SAFE Center.

‌For a comprehensive overview, visit the Title IX website.

‌We encourage all employees to promptly report sexual misconduct to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs. As of Aug. 1, 2024, all nonconfidential employees, graduate students with assistantships, and resident advisors in Housing and Residential Communities are required to report conduct that may constitute Prohibited Conduct under the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy. The Office of Equal Opportunity will provide the campus community with additional information and training regarding these changes and other relevant changes to the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy as we approach the fall semester.

‌Please join me in committing to a culture of safety and respect. Thank you for your vigilance and for partnering with us at the Capstone.

Stuart R. Bell

President

A Message from the President – May 28, 2024

• May 28th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear UA Family,

‌

On this morning after observing Memorial Day, I join you in expressing gratitude to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

‌And, as we embark on the summer semester, I extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you. Your commitment to academic excellence and personal growth sets the foundation for the exciting weeks ahead.

‌With great pride, once again we celebrate the Fulbright Program recognizing the exceptional talent within our University. Fourteen students have been selected for various awards for the upcoming academic year, reaffirming our leadership in international exchange and academic achievement.

‌Congratulations as well to Benjamin Trost, who was awarded the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, the first UA student in over two decades to receive the esteemed honor. His dedication to environmental and public policy fields inspires and reflects the standard of students enrolled at UA.

‌In addition, The University of Alabama celebrated exceptional athletic successes this past weekend. Alabama softball clinched their 15th trip to the Women’s College World Series, while Filip Planinsek secured Alabama’s first-ever NCAA tennis title. The Alabama track and field program advanced six women to the NCAA Championships, with 14 event qualifications across both men’s and women’s teams. And, Crimson Tide Baseball earned a No. 2 seed at the NCAA Tallahassee Regional. These achievements highlight the dedication and excellence embodied by UA student-athletes.

‌I am also pleased to share the reopening of the historic University Club, now serving as a hands-on learning environment for our hospitality management students. This collaboration with Invited, the nation’s largest owner and operator of private membership clubs, offers our students invaluable experience in event planning, hospitality and operations through internships and employment opportunities.

‌Moreover, I am thrilled to witness a growing number of undergraduates engaging in research and creative pursuits. The University of Alabama continues to be a dynamic hub for groundbreaking research, offering boundless opportunities for collaboration and innovation among students and faculty alike.

‌As we journey forward together this summer, remain focused on pursuing excellence and innovation. Your passion and dedication are the bedrock of our UA community, making it truly extraordinary. 

‌Roll Tide!

‌

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President- May 8, 2024

• May 8th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Reflecting on the recently concluded academic year fills me with immense pride, and I’m thrilled to share our Year in Review video, spotlighting the remarkable journey we’ve experienced together.

From significant events and accomplishments to pivotal University milestones that define our community, your relentless commitment and impactful involvement form the foundation of our shared success. Here’s to another year marked by excellence and achievement at The University of Alabama.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – April 30

• April 30th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

‌Congratulations, Class of 2024! Your hard work and resilience have brought you to this pivotal moment. As you prepare to embark on the next chapter, remember the knowledge, skills and experiences honed at UA will guide you to achieve great things. I look forward to hearing about your future endeavors as legendary alumni.

‌To faculty and staff, my sincere gratitude for your dedication to our students’ success. Your passion for teaching and mentorship has shaped graduates for future opportunities, and I’m honored to work with such talented professionals.

‌Congratulations to Dr. Andrew Raffo Dewar, the 2023 recipient of the prestigious Burnum Award. His contributions to interdisciplinary arts exemplify excellence and innovation at UA, and we celebrate his outstanding achievements. Well done, as well, to Dr. Heather Cass White, professor of English, on being selected as a Guggenheim Fellow. Her achievement reflects exceptional talent and contributions to her field.

‌As we prepare to conclude the spring semester and celebrate the accomplishments of our graduating students, let’s remember the importance of community. Together, we have embraced growth opportunities and will continue to thrive as we look toward the future. Thank you for your commitment to the Capstone.

‌I wish you all the best of luck on final exams and projects, a successful conclusion to the semester and a rejuvenating summer break.

‌Roll Tide!

‌Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – April 16, 2024

• April 16th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌Congratulations to Coach Nate Oats and our men’s basketball team for an unforgettable journey to the Final Four. Their remarkable performance on the court throughout the season showcased the true spirit of the Crimson Tide. 

‌‌It was also a delight to witness more than 72,000 fans on a beautiful spring A-Day, gathering to see the football team’s final spring practice and welcoming our new head coach, Kalen DeBoer. A highlight was local high school students and Million Dollar Band alumni joining our MDB members at the Walk of Champions and in the stands, adding to the vibrant atmosphere with cheers and music. Jalen Milroe, Malachi Moore and Dallas Turner sparked well-deserved celebration as they added their handprints to the Walk of Fame.

‌Congratulations to Alabama baseball for a stellar series shutout victory over No. 1-ranked Arkansas, made possible by their resilience and teamwork on the field. And as our gymnastics team prepares for the NCAA Championship Semifinals on Thursday, we send them our best wishes as they represent the Crimson Tide with skill, determination and grace.

‌Bama Blitz starts today at noon and will continue until noon Thursday. The fundraising campaign reflects the strong support of our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends. Through your varied efforts in championing UA’s mission, we highlight the significant impact that a dedicated community can achieve for The University of Alabama.

‌As a reminder, faculty and staff are invited to Spring Campus Assembly in Bryant-Denny Stadium on Wednesday, April 17. Your dedication and hard work are the foundation of our success, and I’m incredibly proud of all you do. It will be a privilege to gather as a community, present awards and hear from Coach DeBoer as our special guest.

‌And, we will hold commencement ceremonies May 3-5 at Coleman Coliseum to celebrate our graduates’ remarkable achievements. As we enter the final stretch, let’s maintain focus, diligence and a commitment to excellence. I’m honored to serve as your president.

‌Roll Tide!

‌

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – April 1, 2024

• April 1st, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Campus Community,

‌It’s Honors Week at the Capstone, The University of Alabama’s recognition of our students’ academic achievements. I am continually inspired by the dedication and outstanding efforts of our legendary students, including our three recently selected Goldwater Scholars for 2024-2025.

‌Our student-athletes consistently exceed their own high standards as well. Last weekend the Crimson Tide men’s basketball team secured a historic victory, advancing to the NCAA Final Four for the first time. Their achievement reflects the talent, teamwork and determination that define our University community, and we eagerly anticipate their continued success on the national stage.

‌Students, as the semester progresses and projects and papers become more demanding, I urge you to leverage the many resources UA offers. University Libraries provides essential research tools to assist with your academic work. Additionally, the UA Counseling Center offers support for both academic success and personal growth. Don’t overlook Togetherall, a free peer support platform. Prioritizing mental and physical well-being will enhance your success.

‌Faculty and staff, the We Are UA giving campaign launched last week and continues through April 18. I encourage you to consider donating to an area of campus that holds special significance for you. As stewards of UA’s legacy, your contributions play a vital role in furthering our impact through transformational teaching, research and service.

‌Lastly, I invite all faculty and staff to UA’s spring Campus Assembly on April 17 at 1:30 p.m. in Bryant-Denny Stadium. I will present the state of the University, recognize outstanding faculty and staff and celebrate our collective achievements. Additionally, important updates from Faculty Senate, PSA, OCTSA and SGA will be presented. New Crimson Tide head football coach Kalen DeBoer will also attend and offer remarks before the reception. Don’t miss this special occasion!

‌Roll Tide!

‌

Stuart R. Bell
‌President

A Message from the President – March 19, 2024

• March 19th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Campus Community,

‌A warm welcome back as we resume our work and academic pursuits. I encourage you to focus on your goals with renewed energy and enthusiasm and maximize the opportunities each day presents to learn, grow and make meaningful contributions to our UA community.

‌Heartfelt congratulations to The University of Alabama women’s wheelchair basketball team for winning their fifth consecutive national championship. Their victory earned on our home court in Stran-Hardin Arena marks the team’s fifth national title in six years and exemplifies the standard that defines the Crimson Tide.

‌We are also proud to commend three outstanding UA students among 47 from around the nation selected for the prestigious Brooke Owens Fellowship in space and aviation. We applaud them for their commitment to excellence and for representing our institution with distinction on the national stage.

‌Furthermore, we are pleased to announce enrollment opportunities for the ‌Capstone Learning Academy, which will provide full-time child care services beginning this September. This initiative underscores our dedication to supporting UA employees and students by offering transformational resources and services.

‌Finally, excitement is building as March Madness tips off this week. We’re thrilled to rally behind both our men’s and women’s basketball teams as they gear up to compete in the NCAA Tournament.

‌As we move forward for the remainder of the semester, let’s continue to collaborate and inspire one another to build upon the rich tradition of success and innovation at the Capstone.

‌Roll Tide!

‌Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – March 5, 2024

• March 5th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

Your steady support has brought us to a moment of celebration for The Rising Tide Capital Campaign, and we proudly announce that the initial $1.5 billion goal has been met. As our journey evolves, we have raised our sights and set a new $1.8 billion goal for maximum impact. Thank you for your commitment to giving, which has already created a strong wave of progress and success, strengthening the bonds of the UA family.

‌As we embrace the vibrant energy of the impending spring, I’m proud to share some additional notable achievements as a hallmark of the talents of our UA community.

• The University of Alabama has once again been recognized as a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students and achieved an inaugural designation as a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Scholars. We take pride in being one of only 12 universities nationwide to receive both honors.
• Please join me in congratulating Dr. Claire Major, professor of higher education and the faculty director of The University of Alabama Teaching Academy, for being named UA’s recipient of the 2024 Southeastern Conference Faculty Achievement Award. The award highlights significant contributions to advancing academic excellence through teaching, innovation and service.
• Give a round of applause for the eight individuals who received Premier Awards, UA’s top honors, for exemplifying the highest standards of scholarship, service, leadership and character.
• And finally, I am immensely proud of our entirely student-led organization, UA Miracle, which raised an impressive $233,200 over the past year for Children’s of Alabama. Their cumulative efforts over the last 13 years have surpassed $2.5 million for Miracle families. 

‌Please mark your calendars for spring commencement ceremonies in Coleman Coliseum on May 3-5 for the approximately 6,000 students expected to graduate and join alumni status. We look forward to celebrating this legendary achievement!

As we anticipate spring break, I am grateful for the dedication and effort you all consistently put into your work, whether in classrooms, offices or labs. Enjoy a well-deserved rest and explore the exciting events that March has to offer on campus and around Tuscaloosa. 

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President