A Message from the President – March 3, 2025

• March 4th, 2025
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌Spring break is almost here, but before you unplug, take a moment to celebrate some incredible things happening at The University of Alabama:

• UA Named a Top Producer of Fulbright Students — Again — For the eighth time in the past decade, UA has been recognized as a Top Producing Institution for Fulbright U.S. Students, with 14 students earning Fulbright awards for the 2024-2025 academic year to advance research and teaching worldwide.

• Distinguished Professor Recognized — Dr. M.N.V. Ravi Kumar, a Distinguished University Research Professor in the College of Community Health Sciences, has been named UA’s SEC Faculty Achievement Award winner, underscoring our leadership in teaching, research and scholarship across the SEC.
• UA Miracle Makes a Big Impact — Students raised an impressive $223,725 for Children’s of Alabama, uniting students in a shared mission of service, impact and campus community engagement.
• SGA and CrossingPoints Expand Opportunities — This partnership is creating valuable opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities, fostering lifelong skills, connections and educational access.
• Supplemental Instruction Develops Leaders — By strengthening academic performance, this program is building confidence, leadership and mentorship skills extending beyond the classroom.
•  Education Abroad — UA students aren’t just learning — they are leading, serving and making an impact around the world, reinforcing the University’s commitment to global engagement.

Whether you will be relaxing or making memories with friends and family this spring break, I hope you enjoy a well-earned pause. If you’re looking for a way to recharge while staying active, consider joining the Crimson Couch to 5K — an opportunity to connect with the UA community before the final stretch of the semester.

‌Thank you for all you do to make UA so legendary.

‌Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – February 18, 2025

• February 18th, 2025
• in Messages from the President

Dear Campus Community, 

‌

‌At The University of Alabama, we are committed to the safety and well-being of every member of our community. Each semester, I reaffirm our pledge to foster a safe, respectful campus by encouraging the prevention and reporting of sexual misconduct. The University offers extensive resources, support and reporting options for students, employees and community members. I urge you to review the information and links below to stay informed about these important services. 

‌The Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy outlines Prohibited Conduct, including sexual harassment, sex discrimination, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, and other forms of sexual misconduct. It also details multiple ways to report these concerns. 

‌Reports can be made to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs, which oversees Title IX compliance by receiving and investigating reports of sexual misconduct. The Office provides many valuable services, such as supportive measures, including counseling referrals, safety planning and academic support, as well as prevention, education and awareness training and programs on policies, reporting, prevention, bystander intervention and conflict resolution. To file a report or learn more, contact Title IX Coordinator Jessica Humber at 205-348-5496 or titleix@ua.edu. 

‌The UAct program serves as a central resource for reporting sexual misconduct and other issues. The University of Alabama Police Department provides comprehensive law enforcement services 24/7, 365 days a year through a team of sworn, state-commissioned officers. To file a criminal report with UAPD, call 205-348-5454 or visit their on-campus headquarters at 1110 Jackson Ave. 

‌The University offers confidential reporting and counseling services. The Women and Gender Resource Center provides victim advocacy and counseling for survivors of interpersonal violence, as well as support for affected family and friends. The WGRC can be reached at 205-348-5040. On-call advocates are available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, for crisis intervention and support. After hours, an advocate can be reached through UAPD at 205-348-5454. 

‌Additional confidential counseling services include the Counseling Center, which offers counseling and outreach programs for students, and the Capstone Family Therapy Clinic, which provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families in both the University and the surrounding communities. The Employee Assistance Program supports eligible employees and their families with resources for work-related and personal concerns. The Tuscaloosa Safe Center, a 24/7 sexual assault crisis center, offers free, compassionate and patient-centered forensic examinations. 

‌The University strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports or participates in a report of harassment, discrimination or sexual misconduct. We all share the responsibility of fostering a culture of safety and respect. I encourage each of you to join us in our ongoing efforts to prevent and combat sexual misconduct. 

Stuart R. Bell 
President

A Message from the President – February 4, 2025

• February 4th, 2025
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌

Across campus, excellence is on display — in classrooms, research labs, athletic arenas and in service to others. Each day brings new achievements reflecting the hard work and commitment of our UA community.

‌Last month we submitted our Quality Enhancement Plan to increase student success with supplemental instruction opportunities as part of our accreditation reaffirmation process. We commend our reaffirmation team and look forward to the SACSCOC review committee’s onsite visit Feb. 25 and 26.

‌The UA cheer team brought home its seventh national title, showcasing the dedication, spirit and determination of our student body. Our students’ commitment to academic excellence is equally impressive, with 14,631 named to the fall 2024 dean’s or president’s list. We also take great pride in supporting our National Merit Scholars as they thrive in UA’s dynamic academic environment and continue to achieve at the highest levels. Additionally, the Student Government Association’s OneUA Week fosters unity and a sense of belonging among all members of our community, reinforcing UA’s commitment to creating a supportive and respectful campus environment.

‌Our faculty and staff play a vital role in shaping UA’s future. The UA System’s McMahon-Pleiad Prize recipient, Dr. Jeff Gray, highlights the expertise and passion of our educators. And Dr. Steven Jones is driving innovation and research forward as the new Alabama Transportation Institute executive director, strengthening UA’s leadership in this critical area. 

‌Our commitment to service and engagement also remains steadfast. Initiatives such as Culverhouse LIFT and Leaders to Legends help meet critical needs in our region.

‌Thank you all for your commitment to our shared mission. I take great pride in the progress and successes of our UA community, and it is an honor to serve as your president.

‌Roll Tide!

‌

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from President Stuart R. Bell

• January 15th, 2025
• in Messages from the President

Dear UA Community,

As I reflect on this last decade, I am filled with pride and gratitude for all the accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff and alumni. The University of Alabama has enjoyed consistent record-breaking momentum in enrollment, research and fundraising while enhancing the Alabama Experience to equip our students for success.

As our University continues its positive direction, the moment is right to announce plans to complete my tenure as president mid-summer. I am grateful for the longstanding support of our Board of Trustees and UA System leadership and will work with them for a seamless transition. It has been my honor to work with you during my 26 years here, including the last 10 as your president, and I look forward to a future return to the faculty.

Thanks to your dedication, we have moved the University forward in remarkable ways. We achieved numerous enrollment records for the University, topping 40,800 students this past fall, including a record number of National Merit Scholars. You have created an environment where students and families strive to be part of the amazing things happening here. Through your support, our community has sustained this upward trajectory year over year.

We have also achieved incredible success in our research and scholarship. The University has grown graduate programs, particularly at the doctoral level, and increased scholarly works by our faculty and students. We secured R1 Carnegie Classification for Research Universities, and this year we again set a record for external sponsored funding with approximately $270 million, almost three times more than 10 years ago. Likewise, our research expenditures classify UA as one of the fastest growing research institutions among R1 universities.

Together we have served our students and University community with distinction. With the launch of the Rising Tide capital campaign, community support has been beyond tremendous. Thanks to a record $262 million in giving this past year, we surpassed our ambitious original $1.5 billion goal more than two years early. We are now well on our way to achieving our new $1.8 billion goal. I cannot thank you and our generous supporters enough for being the driving force for achieving such success, providing unprecedented new scholarships, endowed faculty support, new and improved facilities, enhanced athletic program resources, and so much more.

Thank you for allowing Susan and me the honor to serve you and to represent our wonderful University. Students are at the heart of everything we do, and we will miss those interactions most of all. We will cherish incredible memories and savor every moment of our final months in this role. We also look forward to continuing our passion for working with students and my future return to the faculty.

I hope to see and speak personally with many of you as we prepare for the future together. You have all been true heroes to me and our University. Thank you and Roll Tide!

Warmest regards,

Stuart R. Bell
President
The University of Alabama

A Message from the President – December 10, 2024

• December 10th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Campus Community, 

‌As students begin the final week of the semester, I want to take a moment to reflect. Thank you for the heart you bring to your studies, work and service; your incredible achievements make The University of Alabama such a special place. Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished! 

‌This is also a time to commend some remarkable members of our community. Army Officer Kimberly Smith, recipient of the 2024 UA Online Legendary Service Award, exemplifies resilience and dedication through her service to her country and education — qualities we are proud to recognize at UA. 

‌‌Our faculty and staff continue to inspire excellence. Dr. Albert Pionke, a Victorian literature specialist, was recently honored with the Blackmon-Moody Outstanding Professor Award. His impact on literary studies reminds us of the talent and distinction that define our university. 

‌Students, as you take final exams this week, I encourage you to trust in your preparation, stay focused and finish strong. This is an exciting milestone, especially for those graduating on Saturday. We look forward to celebrating with you as you join the ranks of our distinguished alumni at fall commencement. 

‌As we approach the holiday season, I want to express my gratitude for all you contribute to the success of our university. To our faculty and staff, thank you for your commitment and the support that make our progress possible. To our students, best of luck during finals week — I know your hard work will pay off. 

‌And, watch for a special holiday message and video early next week — a creative and fun way to close out the semester in true Alabama fashion. 

‌Roll Tide! 

‌

‌Stuart R. Bell
‌President

A Message from the President – November 19, 2024

• November 21st, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌As we approach Thanksgiving break, I am especially grateful for each of you. Thanksgiving offers us all a moment to pause and reflect on our many blessings and the amazing opportunities we have at The University of Alabama.

‌As a reminder, the 31st annual Beat Auburn Beat Hunger food drive wraps up on Thursday. This important initiative supports the West Alabama Food Bank, and I encourage you to donate nonperishable food items at campus locations or through the campaign website.

‌Our recent homecoming featured a 500-drone light show, a joint project by the Divisions of Strategic Communications and Student Life. Supported by our Tuska UAV Design Team, who gained hands-on experience with the vendor, the display brought the night sky to life and added something truly special to this year’s celebration, embodying the spirit of innovation that defines UA.

‌I am proud to share that UA senior Kate Herndon has been named a Rhodes Scholar, one of the most prestigious academic awards in the world. Kate, a student in our University Honors Program majoring in criminal justice and history, is the 17th Rhodes Scholar in UA history, and UA has more Rhodes Scholars than all other public universities in Alabama combined. Her achievements reflect the dedication, excellence and impact that define our university community.

I’m pleased to congratulate Mike Shelton, who will serve as our new vice provost and chief information officer effective Dec. 1. With over 25 years in information technology, most recently as our deputy chief information officer, Mike brings valuable leadership and vision that will support our academic and research missions.

I’d also like to recognize UA’s ACCESS Virtual Learning program, recently featured as a model national program. By providing high-quality virtual courses to middle and high school students across Alabama — especially in rural areas — UA ACCESS is helping to bridge educational gaps and shape the future of our state’s students, many of whom go on to become our rising legends.

Finally, I want to recognize our cross country teams for their recent achievements at the SEC Championships. The Alabama women’s team, led by Doris Lemngole’s outstanding individual title, claimed its fourth SEC team title. Additionally, the Alabama men’s team recorded a strong second-place finish, marking their third consecutive top-two finish at the conference meet. These achievements reflect the dedication and excellence that define our athletic programs.

‌I wish you a warm and joyful holiday with family and friends, returning renewed for the rest of your semester.

With Thankfulness,

‌Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – November 5, 2024

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

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌As we settle back into our routines following last week’s midsemester study break, I encourage you to continue prioritizing well-being and effective study habits. Managing your workload and supporting each other can make a meaningful difference in reducing stress as we approach the final weeks of the semester.

‌Today is also a day to engage in one of our greatest democratic privileges — voting. Let’s each take part in this important civic duty.

‌I’d like to share a few recent highlights that reflect the energy and achievements of our UA community:

• Homecoming was a vibrant celebration of Crimson Tide spirit, featuring our first-ever drone light show and culminating in a well-deserved win. Congratulations to our newly crowned Homecoming Queen, Shelby Scholar Hannah Adams, whose dedication to academics and service reflects the heart of the UA community.

• We celebrated a historic fundraising milestone with more than $261 million in charitable gifts, setting a new standard for UA. The generosity of alumni, friends and partners fuels academic programs, scholarships and research, building a stronger future for us all.
• Our BamaCares initiative expanded, and, along with our on-campus food bank, now offers greater support to student well-being by ensuring access to essential resources. 
• UA’s Fleet Management team earned national recognition for sustainable resource management, highlighting our commitment to operational efficiency and environmental consciousness.
• Looking ahead, the SGA Battle of the Bands competition on Nov. 13 will showcase four UA student bands in a Battle of the Bands fundraiser for the Joe Espy Needs-Based Scholarship, exemplifying SGA’s dedication to community spirit and student support.

‌Thank you for everything you contribute to making UA such a legendary place. I look forward to seeing the progress we continue to make together.

‌Roll Tide!

‌

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – October 21, 2024

• October 22nd, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear UA Community,

‌

As we dive deeper into the fall semester, it’s inspiring to witness our students, faculty and staff continue to make a meaningful impact, both on campus and in the broader community. From student-led efforts to support hurricane relief to exciting campus traditions, there’s no shortage of reasons to be proud of what we’re accomplishing together.

‌The Beat Auburn Beat Hunger food drive kicked off this month and runs through Nov. 21. This annual event is more than a rivalry — it’s an opportunity to give back by stocking the West Alabama Food Bank and helping those in need. Additionally, the UA United Way Campaign underway now offers faculty, staff and students the chance to contribute to life-changing programs in our community. Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps make a difference. Let’s all get involved and make a significant impact again this year.

‌Our faculty continue to inspire with their dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering student success. Recently, The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees honored six faculty members for their exceptional contributions in teaching, research and service.

‌ The spirit of homecoming is in the air! This time-honored tradition brings together students, faculty, staff and alumni to celebrate our Crimson Tide pride and the bonds that unite us. Whether attending events or following along from afar, I encourage you to be part of this special week. 

‌While it may seem far off, our fall commencement on Dec. 14 will be here soon. I look forward to honoring the hard work and achievements of our graduating students as they embark on the next chapter of their journeys.

‌Thank you for your continued dedication to making The University of Alabama a place of excellence, compassion and community. Together, we continue to shape the future.

‌Roll Tide!

‌Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – October 8, 2024

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

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

‌

At the University of Alabama, we prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our community. Each semester I reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safe and respectful campus environment while actively preventing and addressing sexual misconduct. The University provides numerous resources, support and reporting options for students and employees. Please review the information and links below to stay informed about these valuable services.

‌The Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy outlines prohibited conduct, reporting procedures, supportive measures, and the University’s prevention and education efforts. The policy was recently updated, and I encourage you to review it on the Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs website.

As of August, all non-confidential UA employees, graduate students with assistantships, and campus housing resident advisors are required to report known or suspected prohibited conduct. Additionally, all students are encouraged to report related concerns through any available reporting avenues.

The Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs at 2418 Capital Hall is charged with receiving and investigating reports of prohibited conduct. The team there works with administration, departments, faculty and staff to provide comprehensive supportive measures for students and employees, including academic assistance, safety planning, counseling and campus referrals. They also offer an Alternative Dispute Resolution Process to help reach mutually acceptable agreements related to allegations. For more information or to report any type of sexual misconduct, please contact our Title IX Coordinator, Jessica Humber, at 205-348-5496 or titleix@ua.edu.

In an emergency or to report criminal matters, the University of Alabama Police Department (UAPD) provides law enforcement services 24/7 through sworn, state-commissioned officers. You can file a criminal report by calling 205-348-5454 or visiting UAPD headquarters at 1110 Jackson Ave or the West Precinct located on the Strip at 1209 University Blvd. Bright blue emergency phones on campus offer a direct line to UAPD.

Confidential reporting and counseling options are summarized on the Title IX website. The Women and Gender Resource Center (WGRC) provides victim advocacy and counseling services for survivors of interpersonal violence and their families. You can reach the WGRC at 205-348-5040. On-call advocates for crisis intervention and support are available 24/7. After hours, contact UAPD at 205-348-5454.

Additional confidential counseling services include the Counseling Center, with counseling and outreach for students, and the Capstone Family Therapy Clinic, providing  psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families. The Employee Assistance Program supports eligible employees and families with resources for various work-related and personal concerns. And the Tuscaloosa Safe Center serves as a 24/7 sexual assault crisis center, offering free, compassionate, patient-centered sexual assault forensic exams. 

We all share the responsibility to foster a culture of safety and respect. I encourage each of you to partner with us in the ongoing effort to combat and prevent sexual misconduct by familiarizing yourself with these vital resources and services.

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – September 24, 2024

• September 24th, 2024
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff, 

‌‌For the first time in our history, UA marked a tremendous milestone with total enrollment surpassing 40,000, highlighted by the largest class of in-state first-year students. It’s inspiring to see the Alabama experience continuing to draw promising students from Alabama and around the world to our vibrant campus community. 

‌With the fall semester now in full swing, I encourage all students to take advantage of our numerous career fairs as fantastic opportunities to connect with top employers eager to hire because of the caliber and readiness of UA students. Whether you’re looking to network or plan for internships, I urge you to explore Handshake and get ready for your next big step. 

‌‌I also want to congratulate the inaugural class of Shelby Scholars in the Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership. These 39 exceptional students will have unique opportunities to learn from accomplished leaders and engage in vital policy discussions. I look forward to seeing the impact of this program as it helps shape future leaders. 

‌‌Additionally, applications for UA’s Premier Awards — the highest honors at the Capstone — are now open. These prestigious awards recognize excellence across our University. I encourage students to apply or nominate someone you feel embodies the values of leadership, scholarship and service before the Nov. 5 application deadline. 

‌We have much to look forward to in the coming weeks. College GameDay returns to campus this weekend, marking Alabama’s record-tying 59th appearance on the show. It’s also Beat Georgia Week, which presents a unique opportunity to unite as a community and be the game changer. Your participation makes a difference as we cheer for victory and support vital student programs. And don’t forget to make plans for Family Weekend in October, a great time for loved ones to experience UA’s vibrant community. 

‌Thank you for everything you do to make UA a truly unique and transformational place.

‌Roll Tide!

‌

‌Stuart R. Bell
President