A Message from the President – February 7, 2023

• February 7th, 2023
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

I am pleased to share two bold new initiatives made possible thanks to our friend and UA alum, the newly retired U.S. Senator Richard Shelby, which were approved last week by The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees. First, the $100 million Shelby Endowment for Distinguished Faculty will strengthen the University’s recently updated strategic plan by investing in the recruitment and retention of outstanding faculty in STEM disciplines, building on our renowned academic programs and innovative research.

In addition, the newly created Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership will prepare students interested in public service to cultivate, apply and assess policy solutions for some of humanity’s biggest challenges. We are thankful for the longstanding and ongoing support of Senator Shelby and his wife, former UA professor Dr. Annette Shelby, of our mission, students and faculty.

Congratulations to the 12,791 students named to the dean’s or president’s list for the fall 2022 term. Our students continue to distinguish themselves academically, and I am proud of the prominent scholarship you consistently achieve.

UA community, I encourage you to participate in The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development’s 17th annual Books for the Black Belt campaign that continues through Feb. 24. Our goal is to provide educational resources for every child in the Black Belt counties, over 30,000 books. Public outreach — especially that which prepares and inspires children and young adults — is vital to supporting our next generation of legends.

Finally, we are excited to witness the recent success of our winter sports programs. Fresh off two conference wins last week, including the largest SEC win in program history, the Alabama men’s basketball team continues to climb in the national rankings. Our women’s basketball team earned another tough road victory on Saturday to improve to 17-6 on the season. And our women’s gymnastics team defeated Auburn in thrilling fashion in front of a sold-out Coleman Coliseum crowd Friday night. Our programs’ distinction and the success we are witnessing have been fostered by the leadership of Coach Nate Oats, Coach Kristy Curry and Coach Ashley Johnston. We appreciate the investment they make in our student-athletes as they pursue excellence in the classroom and in the competitive arena.

It is my ongoing honor to serve as your president.

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – January, 19 2023

• January 19th, 2023
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

A Message from the President – December 1, 2022

• December 1st, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

We are on the cusp of concluding another record-breaking fall semester at The University of Alabama!

Students, semester exams begin Monday, and I encourage you to prepare well, prioritize your mental health and take time to enjoy the final days of the fall term. I look forward to seeing many of you at our Late Night Breakfast at Lakeside Dining tonight. I am proud of your dedication, and I know you will finish strong and accomplish your goals.

Faculty and staff, there is still time for you to be part of the University’s United Way Campaign. Today at 2 p.m. we will gather on the lawn of Autherine Lucy Hall to celebrate our combined contributions. If you have not yet donated, you can still do so today. We are United in Lifting Lives to support the citizens of West Alabama.

Students, congratulations for breaking a school record and winning this year’s Beat Auburn Beat Hunger Food Drive by raising over 565,000 pounds of food for the West Alabama Food Bank. Families in nine Alabama counties will benefit from your kindness as we help address food insecurity in our state.

What an impressive week it has been for our amazing student-athletes! Last Friday night our top-seeded Alabama soccer team delivered an overtime victory in the NCAA Tournament quarterfinal match and will be making their first appearance in the College Cup on Friday. Last Saturday in Bryant-Denny Stadium, the Crimson Tide clinched a third-straight Iron Bowl victory with unyielding intensity. The very next evening, our men’s basketball team defeated No. 1 UNC in a riveting quadruple overtime game. Our premier athletic programs remain unrivaled.

One of the final and most anticipated moments of the semester is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 10, when we will hold two commencement ceremonies. The Fall Class of 2022 is primed for legendary success. We cannot wait to see how you will use your degree from the Capstone for a lifetime of influence.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – November 8, 2022

• November 8th, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Today is Election Day. I urge you to make your voice heard and exercise your right to vote in the general election.

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and a creative idea, I also encourage you to sign up for theannual River Pitch Competition hosted by the Alabama Entrepreneurial Institute, a program founded by our Culverhouse College of Business. The contest is open to students, faculty, staff and members of the West Alabama community to win prize money and gain valuable feedback about their original business proposals.

Please join me in congratulating many talented student-athletes! Women’s soccer dominated with a perfect 10-0 regular SEC season, with the team positioned as the No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament beginning at 6 p.m. Friday. Men’s and women’s track and field also merit praise for their impressive victories. For the first time in program history, they swept the SEC team championships with four women’s team runners in the top seven finishers and one of the closest men’s races on conference record.

We also celebrate another record-breaking achievement for UA’s research enterprise. For the ninth straight year, sponsored awards that elevate our students’ learning experience reached record highs. Federal sponsored awards reached unprecedented levels in 2022, and outside support for research more than doubled over the past four years.

Faculty and staff, it was good to see many of you at Fall Campus Assembly. Congratulations to our award winners for their dedication, innovation and commitment to the Capstone. Recognition is also due to Dr. Samory Pruitt, vice president for the Division of Community Affairs and proud UA alumnus, for his recent induction into the Tuscaloosa County Civic Hall of Fame. Since 2004, Dr. Pruitt has steadfastly served our campus and the surrounding region through leadership roles focused on public outreach and civic engagement.

Fall commencement is just over one month away, and more than 1,600 degree candidates are expected for the two ceremonies. A boundless future begins right here at The University of Alabama.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – October 25, 2022

• October 25th, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

It was so good to witness the outpouring of UA pride this past weekend at homecoming! Not only did we welcome back friends, fans and alumni for an impressive Crimson Tide victory, we also celebrated our homecoming court and announced our 2022 queen, Ellery Hill, who was crowned during halftime on Saturday.

Students, I appreciate you taking time to thank the many donors who support our mission and generously contributed or pledged close to $226 million in another record fundraising year. Our donors support our efforts to provide world-class educational opportunities for all students through the outstanding work of UA faculty and researchers. Annual funding from UA’s industry partners has also increased by nearly 500%, furthering opportunities for students, innovation and job growth in the state.

Congratulations to Executive Vice President and Provost James Dalton for his formal induction into the National Academy of Medicine earlier this month after a pandemic-based delay. Membership is considered one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine.

Every October, we recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month and commend the contributions of our community members with disabilities past and present. Recently, UA was named an “Employer of the Year” by the Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities.

Finally, the results from the second campuswide CHIME IN workplace experience survey of UA faculty and staff reveal continuing strengths and opportunities for progress as part of our culture of persistent improvement. The feedback provided bolsters our strategic plan, Advancing the Flagship: The Next Phase, by fostering an environment that aids in the recruitment, retention, growth and support of our outstanding faculty and staff.

There is no other community like ours at The University of Alabama — the place Where Legends Are Made. I look forward to seeing faculty and staff at Fall Campus Assembly tomorrow afternoon. It is my ongoing honor to serve as your president.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – September 13, 2022

• September 13th, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Once again, The University of Alabama is breaking records, with our largest total enrollment ever and some of the nation’s most academically gifted students! We boast the most National Merit Scholars in school history, the largest freshman class on record and an increased enrollment of students of ethnic and racial minorities. In-state student enrollment rose for the fourth year in a row, and students joined us from every state and 88 countries. The Alabama experience is emboldening rising legends for immediate impact.

Applications are currently being accepted for the Capstone’s highest honor, the Premier Awards, to recognize UA students, faculty and staff who exemplify the utmost standards of scholarship, service, leadership and character. I encourage you to nominate a worthy member of our community who personifies our mission and vision.

Recently, the University was awarded a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop an HBCU bridge program for undergraduate students interested in renewable energy. Building Bama projects continue to enhance our campus landscape this semester, with the upcoming ribbon-cutting of Tutwiler Hall and celebration of the future home of Drummond Lyon Hall later this week.

Students, I hope you are continuing to take advantage of the many organizations on campus designed to help you feel at home. As you’re expanding your social networks, you are also preparing for your future and professional goals. The Career Center will be hosting several career fairs this fall, and I encourage you to sign up and use UA resources such as the Root Crimson Career Closet. Congratulations to the nearly 400 excelling students named to the dean’s list or president’s list for the summer semester.

It will be another exciting Saturday in Tuscaloosa this weekend, and I look forward to joining you and all our Alabama fans in Bryant-Denny Stadium. As the Tide continues to rise, I’m grateful you are part of our team. Together, our aspirations become reality.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – August 17, 2022

• August 17th, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Welcome to Fall Semester 2022 at The University of Alabama!

Whether you are a student pursuing transformational educational opportunities, a faculty member equipping our students for future professional success or a staff member working to support our mission — I am thankful you are part of the UA community.

The beginning of a new semester always generates heightened energy around campus, and there are numerous fun activities planned this month to celebrate and welcome you to the Capstone. Students, I encourage you to begin your semester by enjoying the many events planned to help you get connected and feel at home. This week, we kicked things off with the annual Ripple Effect day of service on Monday plus the Script A event for new and incoming students Tuesday, and Weeks of Welcome activities will continue through Aug. 25. From our Welcome Back Breakfast to Get On Board Day, you have plenty of opportunities to make new friends and start creating lifelong memories. There are many other events both on campus and around Tuscaloosa for our entire community to enjoy.

As we look forward to all the fall semester has to offer, I want to thank our devoted faculty and staff for the preparation that has led to this moment. The work you are doing in the classrooms, laboratories and offices across campus is not only a worthy endeavor but an impactful one, shaping discoveries, lives and our shared future.

The Tide continues to rise, and today as classes begin — We ARE Alabama. Let’s make it another fantastic semester!

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – August 2, 2022

• August 2nd, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Please join me in congratulating our upcoming summer 2022 graduates, including students from 18 countries and 192 first-generation students who will be celebrating commencement this weekend. With just two weeks remaining until the beginning of the fall semester, I hope you are preparing to take advantage of all the opportunities the upcoming semester has to offer.

Reflecting on our accomplishments this year, I invite you to take a look back at your successes in 2021-2022. Moving forward, we will continue to win together as a unified community.

Speaking of victories, what a remarkable sight it was to witness three current and former student-athletes earn medals at the World Games in Birmingham. Congratulations to Alabama All-Americans Haylie McCleney and Montana Fouts who helped lead USA Softball to win the team’s third-straight gold medal, and to UA alumna Anna Gay for earning the silver medal in women’s trick water ski. We are also proud of Miss University of Alabama Lindsay Fincher, who was selected from among 40 candidates and crowned Miss Alabama 2022. UA students and alumni continue to demonstrate legendary influence and impressive results.

Thriving in a culture of collaboration, our renowned faculty and staff also persist in shaping the future through creativity and innovation — and yet again, earning richly deserved recognition. The University of Alabama received an award to implement the first ever Gandhi-King Scholarly Exchange Initiative, an honor that demonstrates our community’s commitment to lead and serve.

The University is also transforming society through leading-edge technology, such as the new Connect Alabama app, created through the VitAL initiative in the UA School of Social Work and funded through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Public Health. The novel mobile health application will connect those seeking mental health and substance abuse assistance to information, support and treatment services. UA’s broad reach is evident in our communities.

As we look forward to the fall semester, I encourage you to revisit the Capstone Creed, which serves as a reminder to our students about what we value at The University of Alabama. Our mission is clear and our next steps precise. I’m glad you’re part of the UA family.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – July 14, 2022

• July 14th, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

Since I began my tenure as president of The University of Alabama seven years ago, we have witnessed continuing success — academic excellence, student and faculty accomplishments, athletic achievements and alumni pride. In 2016, we unveiled the UA Strategic Plan to guide this success and serve as a roadmap for our future. Now, I am proud to share the next phase of Advancing the Flagship, which builds upon our progress and refines the bold vision for our institution. I appreciate the thoughtful and deliberate work of the review committee of faculty, staff and students who met throughout the 2021-22 academic year to provide these updates. Planning for success is an integral part of achieving progress.

One example of progress was the recent implosion of the former Tutwiler Hall, which served more than 50,000 students during its over 50-year history. We look forward to welcoming residents to their new home in the newly constructed Tutwiler Hall this fall. We also recently announced the creation of the Sworn Officer Scholarship Program for selected students who are either sworn officers or children of sworn officers for the Tuscaloosa Police Department, Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue, Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Northport Police Department and Northport Fire Rescue. The new program, which will begin in fall 2023, is an investment in our community’s future and further acknowledges and supports the brave work of those first responders.

Congratulations are in order for the Alabama Astrobotics team for claiming its seventh championship title in a row at the annual NASA robotics competition, overcoming numerous obstacles to clinch the victory. We are proud of its ongoing success. The UA College of Community Health Sciences also welcomed the first class of the Tuscaloosa Rural Pre-Medical Internship program for pre-medical students who may one day serve residents in rural Alabama practices.

Commendations are due to the University for earning multiple Circle of Excellence and Southeast Emmy Awards. The Story of Autherine Lucy Foster was one of many entries that received an honor for its compelling content.

Finally, we will soon be celebrating another class of graduates at summer commencement Saturday, Aug. 6. Around 1,000 students will attend the single ceremony, and I look forward to seeing them and their families and friends in Coleman Coliseum.

These accomplishments represent the combined efforts of our community. As we continue to propel the Capstone to even greater heights, I remain grateful for your contributions and commitment to our mission.

Roll Tide!

Stuart R. Bell
President

A Message from the President – June 23, 2022

• June 23rd, 2022
• in Messages from the President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

On June 23, 1972, Title IX was signed into law promoting equity in education programs and activities. The University is celebrating the 50th anniversary of this historic legislation by affirming our pledge to continue to promote and preserve a safe, respectful campus environment and our steadfast commitment to provide an environment that promotes prevention and reporting of sexual misconduct.

The University also has several events planned throughout the year to commemorate the 50th anniversary. Today, the Women and Gender Resource Center, Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs, University Programs and Department of Athletics are hosting a birthday party for Title IX from noon to 2 p.m. at the Gorgas House. I encourage all to take part in this celebration and the many events that are planned throughout the remainder of the year.

The University provides Title IX-related resources, support and reporting options for students, employees and members of our community. I encourage each of you to review the information and links provided to be informed about these valuable services.

The Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy provides detailed information about what is considered Prohibited Conduct, how to report Prohibited Conduct, available supportive measures and the University’s prevention, education and awareness efforts. Students, employees and campus 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 concerns related to sexual misconduct to any of the multiple reporting avenues.

The UAct program provides a central location for information about reporting sexual misconduct. The University of Alabama Police Department provides a comprehensive array of law enforcement services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year through a dedicated staff of sworn, state-commissioned police officers. A criminal report can be filed through UAPD by contacting them at 205-348-5454 or by visiting their headquarters located on campus at 1110 Jackson Ave.

Reports may also be made to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs. The Office oversees the University’s compliance with Title IX by receiving and investigating reports of sexual misconduct. The Office also aids with supportive measures such as counseling, safety planning and academic support. In addition, the Office provides training and education programs, including programming to improve communication and conflict resolution skills. To make a report or inquire more about the services provided by the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs, please contact the University’s Title IX Coordinator, Jessica Humber, at 205-348-5496 or by email at titleix@ua.edu.

The University also provides confidential reporting and counseling options. The Women and Gender Resource Center provides victim advocacy and counseling services for all members of the University community who are survivors of interpersonal violence, as well as family and friends who have been impacted by abuse. The WGRC can be reached at 205-348-5040. On-call advocates are available 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays, for crisis intervention and support. After hours, the on-call advocate can be reached by contacting UAPD at 205-348-5454.

Additional confidential counseling services include the Counseling Center, which provides counseling and outreach programming for students. The Capstone Family Therapy Clinic provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families to The University of Alabama and surrounding community. The Tuscaloosa Safe Center is a 24/7 sexual assault crisis center that provides a free, compassionate patient-centered environment for sexual assault forensic examinations. Moreover, the Employee Assistance Program is designed to provide eligible employees and their family members with resources for resolving a variety of work-related and personal concerns.

All of these valuable services are summarized on the Sexual Assault and Misconduct Services website. We have a shared responsibility to create and maintain a culture of safety and respect. I encourage you to personally commit to partnering with us in our ongoing effort to combat and prevent sexual misconduct.

Stuart R. Bell
President