We continue to grieve the tragic loss of our student Jimmy Gracey, whose passing is deeply felt across campus. Our prayers are with the Gracey family and friends during this difficult time. We remain in close contact with Jimmy’s family and will continue to support them, along with those of you affected by his loss.
The Office of Student Care and Well-Being can assist students who need support at 205-348-2461. On weekdays during normal business hours, the Counseling Center is available for students at 205-348-3863, faculty and staff have access to the Employee Assistance Program by calling 888-283-3515. After hours and on weekends, students can reach the on-call dean for support or to connect with emergency counseling services by calling dispatch at 205-348-5454 and asking to speak with the on-call dean.
As we return from spring break, I know this loss remains on our minds. In the days ahead, we will continue our work together with focus, purpose and care.
-Peter
Students Making a Meaningful Impact
- I am so proud of UA Miracle, UA’s largest student-led organization, which set a fundraising record this year, raising $394,178 to support pediatric care at Children’s of Alabama. Through their work and the annual BAMAthon event, more than 600 students brought comfort and hope to children and families across our state. This is a powerful reminder of what our students can achieve.
- I also want to congratulate Alex Chairez and Jack Carpenter on being selected for the highly competitive U.S. Department of State’s Critical Language Scholarship, a program supporting immersive study abroad in languages essential to international engagement. This summer, they will have the opportunity to study in Japan and Kyrgyzstan, respectively, building skills that will broaden their perspectives and shape their futures.
- We recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of Capstone Men and Women, bringing together past and current members who continue this tradition of leadership and service. I am grateful for the role these students play in welcoming prospective students and families and representing the very best of The University of Alabama.
- We are expanding opportunities for hands-on experience in a global industry through the Alabama-Esslingen-Mercedes Exchange, which welcomes its first student cohort this year. The program allows students to study abroad, learn a new language and engage directly with the international automotive sector, preparing them to lead in one of Alabama’s most important industries.
Faculty Shaping the Future of Their Fields
- Congratulations to Dr. Andrew Billings on being named The University of Alabama’s recipient of the 2026 Southeastern Conference Faculty Achievement Award. His work continues to shape how we understand sports, media and culture while strengthening the academic reputation of our University.
- I want to recognize five faculty members who have been named distinguished professors by The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees, one of the highest honors awarded across the UA System. Congratulations to Dr. Jason Bara, Dr. Peter Harms, Dr. Mercy Mumba, Dr. Anna Embree and Dr. Kim Severt for demonstrated excellence in scholarly, creative and teaching achievements.
- I also want to highlight faculty in the Institute for Social Science Research in the Barefield College of Arts and Sciences, along with partners across the state, who are leading COMPASS, a brain health program supporting those experiencing ongoing challenges from concussions or traumatic brain injuries. UA’s leadership is making a meaningful difference for patients and families, providing access to critical services at no cost and reflecting our faculty’s expertise.
Voices of UA
“The Alabama Climbing Club has truly shaped my college experience. When I joined as a freshman, I was looking for something active to get involved in. What I found was a community that pushed me to improve while making me feel welcome from day one.”
Ciaran Looney, senior aerospace engineering major and president of the Alabama Rock Climbing Club