Archives: News

A Message from the President – June 25, 2024

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

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:

‌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

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 Scholarshipthe 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 titleThe 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

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

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

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

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

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

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 AwardThe 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 Miraclewhich 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

A Message from the President – February 20, 2024

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

At The University of Alabama, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our community members. Each semester, I reaffirm our commitment to fostering a secure and respectful campus environment. We actively promote the prevention and reporting of sexual misconduct, offering a range of resources, support and reporting avenues for students, employees and community members. I urge each of you to review the information and links below to stay informed about these invaluable services.

The Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy outlines prohibited conduct, how to report prohibited conduct, reporting procedures, supportive measures and the University’s prevention initiatives. Students, employees and visitors are encouraged to report sexual or gender-based harassment, sexual or gender-based discrimination, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, stalking, sexual exploitation or other sexual misconduct-related concerns to law enforcement or University officials. 

The University of Alabama Police Department offers 24/7 law enforcement services with a dedicated team of sworn, state-commissioned officers. To file a criminal report, contact UAPD at 205-348-5454 or visit their campus headquarters at 1110 Jackson Ave.

Reports can be made to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs at 2418 Capital Hall. The office manages Title IX compliance, investigating sexual misconduct reports and addressing retaliation. It connects individuals with supportive measures like counseling and safety planning, offering training on policies, reporting, prevention, bystander intervention and conflict resolution. Tal Lieber, director of Informal Resolution Services, oversees the Alternative Dispute Resolution Process which assists parties to a report in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement to resolve a report. For inquiries or to make a report, contact the Title IX coordinator, Jessica Humber, at 205-348-5496 or titleix@ua.edu.

The University offers confidential reporting and counseling through the Women and Gender Resource CenterThe WGRC provides free victim advocacy, counseling and on-call support for survivors of interpersonal violence and their families. To schedule appointments, call 205-348-5040. On-call advocates are available 24/7, reachable after hours through UAPD at 205-348-5454. The WGRC also conducts programs and training, including events like Take Back the Night on April 2 and Survivors Bloom from Within on April 10, focusing on University and community resources for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Additional confidential counseling services are offered through the Counseling Center for students; the Capstone Family Therapy Clinic for individuals, couples and families; and the Employee Assistance Program for eligible employees and their families. The Tuscaloosa Safe Center, a 24/7 sexual assault crisis center, provides free and compassionate sexual assault forensic examinations. Visit the Sexual Assault and Misconduct Services and Support website for a summary of these crucial resources.

We all share the responsibility to foster a culture of safety and respect. Thank you for taking the time to explore University and community resources. I encourage each of you to personally commit to partnering with us in the continuous effort to combat and prevent sexual misconduct.

Stuart R. Bell
President