Stronger TOGETHER
Greater IMPACT

UA Profile of Excellence 2025-2026

Shaping the Future, TOGETHER

“The University of Alabama is built on a strong foundation — and we are just getting started. This Profile reflects the energy, talent and drive that fuels our momentum. Across our campus, throughout all 67 counties, and across the nation, our students, faculty, staff and alumni are working in alignment to amplify our impact. By redefining what success in higher education looks like and by forging partnerships that strengthen Alabama’s economy and communities, we are shaping a future worthy of our legacy and of the state and country we proudly serve.”

— Peter J. Mohler, President

Dr. Peter J. Mohler

30th President of the University of Alabama

Dr. Peter J. Mohler began his tenure as the 30th president of The University of Alabama on July 21, 2025. A nationally recognized leader in higher education, Dr. Mohler brings to UA a distinguished record of advancing research, innovation, academic excellence and collaboration.

Before joining UA, he served nearly 15 years at The Ohio State University, where his leadership roles included executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge; chief scientific officer of the Wexner Medical Center; and acting university president.

Dr. Mohler is a Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences and an Outstanding Investigator of the American Heart Association, and he has authored over 250 articles.

A proud product of education in the South, Dr. Mohler was drawn to UA’s powerful alignment of academic excellence, athletic tradition and shared purpose. He and his wife, Nancy, love being part of the UA community. They have three children: Eleanor, Caroline and John.

Purpose-Driven LEADERSHIP

Dr. Peter J. Mohler
President

Dr. Lesley Reid
Interim Provost

Chad Tindol
Chief Administrative Officer

Dr. Bryan Boudouris
Vice President for Research and Economic Development

Ryan Bradley
Vice President for Strategic Communications

Greg Byrne
Director of Athletics

Dr. Steven Hood
Vice President for Student Life

Dr. Dan Layzell
Vice President for Finance and Operations and Treasurer

Bob Pierce
Vice President for Advancement

Dr. Samory Pruitt
Vice President for Community Affairs

Portrait of Dr. Peter J. Mohler

WHAT DEFINES US

OUR MISSION

The University of Alabama will advance the intellectual and social condition of the people of the state, the nation and the world through the creation, translation and dissemination of knowledge with an emphasis on quality programs in the areas of teaching, research and service.

OUR VISION

The University of Alabama will be known as the university of choice for the best and brightest students in Alabama, and all students who seek exceptional educational opportunities. The University of Alabama will be a student-centered research university and an academic community united in its commitment to enhance the quality of life for all Alabamians and the citizens of the nation and the world.

HOW WE LIVE IT OUT

OUR VALUES

Undergraduate education that produces socially-conscious, ethical and well-rounded leaders who are grounded in their subject matter and capable of controlling their own destinies.

Graduate education that is deeply vested in subject matter knowledge, professional content, research skills and creative activity.

Public outreach and service that is held in the highest regard and fosters impactful public engagement to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Alabama, the nation and the world.

Campus life that embodies collaboration, collegiality and respect.

Classroom of students engaged in a lecture

TIMELESS LANDMARKS

More than dots on a campus map, these landmarks are where the Alabama story continues to unfold.

DENNY CHIMES

Built in 1929 to honor President George H. Denny, under whose leadership UA gained national prominence. The 115-foot tower rings every quarter hour and plays the alma mater daily at noon, a tradition that resonates across campus.

THE QUAD

A 22-acre green space at the heart of campus, home to many historic buildings and a central gathering place for celebrations and traditions.

TUSKA

The 19-foot, seven-ton elephant statue near Bryant-Denny Stadium symbolizes the strength and spirit of the Crimson Tide, with its trunk raised skyward in victory.

SABAN FIELD

The playing surface at Bryant-Denny Stadium honors legendary head coach Nick Saban and his lasting impact on UA football and the University community.

WALK OF CHAMPIONS

The path leading into Bryant-Denny Stadium honors the players and coaches who have brought pride to UA and inspired generations of fans.

FOSTER AUDITORIUM

A National Historic Landmark since 2005, marking the 1963 enrollment of Vivian Malone and James Hood, a pivotal step in UA’s integration. Today, it houses the volleyball program and overlooks Malone-Hood Plaza and the Autherine Lucy Clock Tower, honoring those who broke barriers.

WOODS QUAD

Once a drill field in the 1870s, now home to the Outdoor Sculpture Garden, including Goldie, a 23-foot-long sleeping giant robot that has rested on its side since 2009.

THE PRESIDENT'S MANSION

Built in 1841 and one of the few campus buildings to survive the Civil War, this Greek Revival home has housed University presidents for nearly two centuries. Its lawn hosts fall receptions and serves as a popular backdrop for graduate and visitor photos.

ENDURING TRADITIONS

From the first day on campus to milestone moments years later, UA traditions create shared memories that unite generations of students, alumni and fans.

THE CAPSTONE

A title introduced by President George H. Denny in 1913, signifying a crowning achievement and reflecting UA’s esteemed place in higher education.

HOMECOMING

A beloved fall tradition welcoming alumni back for a weekend of celebration including a pep rally and bonfire, the downtown parade led by the Million Dollar Band and Big Al, and the crowning of the Homecoming Queen on Saban Field.

RING CEREMONY

Each spring, official UA class rings are placed inside Denny Chimes at 6:31 p.m. (18:31) to honor the University’s founding year. After 24 hours, they are presented in a formal ceremony symbolizing each student’s lasting connection to the Capstone.

SCRIPT A TRADITION

During Weeks of Welcome, freshmen form the Script A on Saban Field, in Bryant Denny Stadium, creating a lasting photo with new friends.

HONORS DAY

Held each April, senior honor societies “tap” new members on the Mound, a tradition dating to the early 20th century.

COMMENCEMENT

The University holds commencement ceremonies three times annually in May, August and December at Coleman Coliseum.

BAMA BOUND

Summer orientation where incoming students meet peers, register for classes and take their first steps into UA life.

CAPSTONE CREED

Recited at key events, affirming UA’s commitment to honor, integrity and respect.

As a member of
The University of Alabama community, I will pursue
knowledge; act with fairness, integrity,
and respect; embrace and uphold the dignity of all; foster individual and
civic responsibility; and strive
for excellence in all I do.

The Alabama EXPERIENCE Begins Here

THE RANDALL WELCOME CENTER

Nestled within the historic Bryce Main, the Randall Welcome Center blends the proud heritage of The University of Alabama with a bold modern vision.

As the proverbial front door to the Capstone, the center provides prospective students and visitors with an inspiring first impression of campus life.

The Randall Welcome Center brings Alabama’s story to life through immersive exhibits, interactive displays and a captivating theater experience.

Guests can explore the University’s rich history, its commitment to excellence and the traditions that unite generations of students. Every detail — from preserved architectural features to state-of-the-art technology — reflects Alabama’s enduring spirit and future-focused mission.

For all who visit, the Randall Welcome Center offers more than information. It offers a sense of belonging in a community that cares.

Aerial photo of the Randall Welcome Center

Where LEGENDS Live

Living on campus places students at the heart of the Alabama experience — where friendships are forged, traditions are embraced and opportunities unfold every day. In this vibrant community, residential life offers a supportive environment filled with resources that help students excel academically, grow socially and develop personally — building a foundation for success long after graduation.

  • Approximately 9,000 residents on campus
  • 34 residence halls
  • 248 resident advisors across campus
  • 21 community directors
  • 3 faculty-in-residence
Student helping with move in.

The HEART of Academic Excellence

At the core of UA’s mission are its celebrated colleges and schools, each offering distinct academic pathways that inspire students to explore, innovate and lead — shaping knowledge that impacts Alabama and the world.

  • Capstone College of Nursing
  • J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Communication and Information Sciences
  • College of Community Health Sciences
  • College of Education
  • Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering
  • College of Human Environmental Sciences
  • Culverhouse College of Business
  • Graduate School
  • Honors College
  • School of Law
  • School of Social Work
  • School of Leadership and Policy
    (slated to open in Fall 2027)

Together, these academic communities form the foundation of The University of Alabama’s enduring excellence.

Group of students walking

OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN, LEAD AND EXCEL

DEGREE PROGRAMS

UA offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 200 programs of study. With a 19-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from academic excellence and personal attention. Research opportunities span disciplines and can begin freshman year.

  • 100+ undergraduate programs across 8 colleges and schools.
  • 200+ graduate and undergraduate majors and degree programs combined.
  • Traditional law curriculum plus emerging areas of law.
  • Flexible online degrees through UA Online.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

  • Hands-on projects with industry, government and community partners.
  • Helping students think critically and connect learning to real-world situations.
  • Study abroad in 50+ countries.

LEADERSHIP & SERVICE

  • 650+ student organizations.
  • Service-learning with community impact.
  • Leadership programs that prepare students to make a difference and lead with integrity.

ENRICHING THE UA EXPERIENCE

UA students have access to distinctive opportunities that deepen their education, support their goals and help them grow as leaders, including:

  • Academic Common Market
  • Blount Scholars Program
  • Capstone Center for Student Success
  • Capstone International Center
  • Living-Learning Communities
  • Career Center
  • Emerging Scholars Program
  • Accelerated Master’s Program
  • English Language Institute
  • Cooperative Education Program
  • Honors College
  • Mathematics Technology Learning Center
  • New College
  • Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education (OTIDE)
  • Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership
  • UA Army and Air Force ROTC
  • UA Early College
  • UA Online
  • University Libraries
  • University Museums

ALMA MATER

Alabama, listen, Mother,
To our vows of love,
To thyself and to each other,
Faithful friends we’ll prove.

Faithful, loyal, firm and true,
Heart bound to heart will beat.
Year by year, the ages through
Until in Heaven we meet.

College days are swiftly fleeting,
Soon we’ll leave their halls
Ne’er to join another meeting
‘Neath their hallowed walls.

Faithful, loyal, firm and true
Heart bound to heart will beat.
Year by year, the ages through
Until in Heaven we meet.

So, farewell, dear Alma Mater
May thy name, we pray,
Be rev’renced ever, pure, and stainless
As it is today.

Faithful, loyal, firm and true,
Heart bound to heart will beat.
Year by year, the ages through
Until in Heaven we meet.

Denny Chimes sketch

From ALABAMA to the World

Graduates cross the stage ready to lead, serve and innovate — as the next class arrives to begin their own journeys. UA’s reach extends far beyond campus, shaping communities across the state and around the globe.

DEGREE PROGRAMS

  • Total Degrees Awarded: 9,507
  • Undergraduate: 6,882
  • Master’s: 2,119
  • Educational Specialist: 72
  • Doctoral: 289
  • Juris Doctor: 145

The Next WAVE

ENROLLMENT AT RECORD STRENGTH

  • Total Fall 2025 Enrollment: 42,360 – our largest ever.
  • In-state momentum: More than 4% increase in Alabama students.
  • Global reach: Students from all 67 Alabama counties, all 50 states, D.C., and 99 countries.
  • Graduate School record: Enrollment surpassing 6,200 students.
  • Early College surge: Nearly 31% increase.
  • Academic excellence: Record 362 National Merit Scholars in the freshman class.
  • Health care leadership: 15% increase in nursing students.
  • Investing in communities: Nearly 11% growth in the College of Community Health Sciences.
Dr. Mohler congratulates a graduate

Faculty and Staff of DISTINCTION

The University of Alabama’s faculty and staff are the driving force behind our mission of teaching, research and service. Their dedication and innovation create transformative experiences for students and advance progress across Alabama, the nation and the world.

SEC Faculty Achievement Award

  • Dr. M.N.V. Ravi Kumar

Sam S. May Commitment to Service Award

  • Fleet Management, Fleet Services, and Automotive Services Team
  • Crimson Promenade Team
  • Video and Creative Media Team
  • Children’s Program
  • UA Online Recruitment Team

Dr. Minnie C. Miles Endowed Excellence Award

  • Meredith Boteler

E. Roger Sayers Distinguished Service Award

  • Jennifer Camp

Vergil Parks McKinley, Sr. Employee Award

  • Allison Drake
  • Dr. William “Joe” Lambert
  • Patty Lovelady Nelson

Alumni Association Awards – Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award

  • Mark Barry
  • Dr. Sherwood Burns-Nader
  • Dr. Carol Donovan
  • Dr. Todd Freeborn

UA Academic Advisors Association – Outstanding Commitment to Advising Award

  • Marian Denham
  • Dr. Gayle G. Faught
Doctor posing for a portrait in a medical room

Setting the STANDARD

The University of Alabama continues to earn national and global recognition for excellence in academics, leadership and impact.

  • Fulbright Leadership – 15 students earned 2025–2026 Fulbright awards, and the University was named a Top Producing Institution for the eighth time in 10 years.
  • Prestigious Scholars – 69 Goldwater, 17 Rhodes, 16 Truman, 45 Hollings and 21 Boren Scholars to date.
  • Philanthropic Momentum – The Rising Tide 2.0 Capital Campaign surpassed its $1.8 billion goal, with continued giving opportunities fueling transformative impact across our campus and state.
  • National Standout – Recognized by Forbes among America’s Best Employers by State, Best Employers for Women, Best Employers for New Grads and on the list of America’s Top Colleges 2026.
  • Law Distinction – School of Law ranked No. 12 among public universities and No. 5 for federal clerkships by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Nursing Achievement – Capstone College of Nursing earned a 100% NCLEX pass rate among 2024 graduates.
  • Leadership Preparation – Featured on TIME’s Best Colleges for Future Leaders 2025.
  • MBA Recognition – Ranked among Fortune’s Best MBA Programs for 2025.
  • Public Relations Leadership – PRWeek ranked the public relations program among the top five nationally for the 11th time.
  • Hosting Global Scholars – UA welcomed 15 distinguished international Fulbright scholars from 10 countries, most pursuing graduate degrees, along with three Fulbright faculty: from Pakistan in Chemical & Biological Engineering, Namibia in the Alabama Transportation Institute, and Ukraine in Religious Studies.
  • Online Excellence – Top 10 nationally in multiple categories, including Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs for Veterans (No. 2) and Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs (No. 5).
  • Trailblazing Accreditation – The Inclusive Higher Education Accreditation Council awarded full accreditation to CrossingPoints Tier 3 – the first of its kind in the SEC and in Alabama.
Aerial view of the Capstone College of Nursing

Strengthening COMMUNITIES

From classrooms to clinics, UA partners with people and organizations across the state to expand opportunities, improve quality of life and create lasting impact for communities we serve.

  • Economic powerhouse: UA generated $3.403 billion in statewide economic impact in 2023–2024 and generated $164.8 million in income and sales taxes.
  • Major Alabama employer: UA, the largest employer in Tuscaloosa, supports over 15,238 jobs statewide.
  • Boosting local health care: In partnership with DCH Health System, UA is bolstering the nursing workforce with new clinical opportunities, internships and educational pathways to help meet Alabama’s critical health care needs.
  • Driving student support: The UA Student Government Association launched a free airport transit program connecting students to Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport during key travel periods.
  • Innovative patient care: UA and DCH launched an innovative supportive care clinic to help patients manage serious or life-limiting illnesses, improving quality of life for patients and families.
  • Elevating Real Estate Education: With the naming of the Rance M. Sanders Real Estate Program, UA is preparing the next generation of real estate leaders through new majors, hands-on learning and scholarships.
  • Expanding opportunity through online learning: UA ACCESS Virtual Learning, in partnership with the Alabama State Department of Education, offers 130 free courses — from AP and world languages to career technical pathways — to every Alabama public and private school serving grades 6–12, reaching about 30,000 students each year.
Group of students walking across a bridge

Asking the Next Big QUESTION

From advanced materials to environmental resilience, UA research tackles pressing challenges, drives innovation and delivers real-world solutions across Alabama and beyond.

  • Innovating in materials science: With new renovations and leading-edge instruments, the Alabama Materials Institute connects UA researchers with industry and government partners to develop cutting-edge solutions in manufacturing, energy and national defense.
  • Propelling space innovation: UA’s Alabama Materials Institute is partnering with the Air
    Force Research Laboratory to advance
    technology for a new, more efficient and
    less toxic satellite propellant.
  • Improving Parkinson’s treatment: UA researchers are helping develop advanced methods for early detection and better care
    for Parkinson’s disease patients.
  • Boosting high-performance computing: UA’s High-Performance Computing Center will dramatically expand capabilities for research across disciplines, holding an estimated $25 million of computing power.
  • Enhancing global water security: With $11.5 million in U.S. Department of Defense funding, UA’s Global Water Security Center is expanding its analysis of how environmental factors influence politics and national security.
  • Strengthening environmental resilience: UA-led research supports Alabama communities with strategies to protect ecosystems, manage water resources and respond to environmental challenges.
  • Leading the future of mobility: UA is the headquarters of a tri-state initiative that will create a premier research development hub for research-enabled mobility innovation.
  • National recognition for innovation: UA is again ranked among the National Academy of Inventors’ Top 100 U.S. Universities Granted U.S. Utility Patents.
UA student working in a lab.

LEGENDS IN THE MAKING

UA students remind us every day that the future of leadership, discovery and service isn’t on the horizon — it’s already on our campus.

  • Medical excellence: Every member of the McCollough Institute for Pre-Medical Scholars Class of 2025 earned acceptance to medical or graduate school.
  • Global innovation leaders: UA’s Tikkun Olam Makers chapter was the only U.S. university to win a grand prize at the TOM Global Innovation Challenge — and one of just two in the nation to earn multiple awards.
  • National scholars: Zachary Griffith and Jesse Park received NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarships.
    Critical language expertise: UA students, Aniyah Curry, Aidan Flynn, William Muller and Logan Shorter earned U.S. Department of State Critical Language Scholarships to study abroad in 2025.
  • Strategic language study: Bennett Ogle received
    a Boren Scholarship for language study in regions
    critical to U.S. interests.
  • STEM distinction: Ian Brunetz, Emily Gokie, Gabrielle Kowkabany, and Blake Yuenger were named 2025–2026 Goldwater Scholars.
  • Student-powered impact: The student-run UA Miracle raised $223,725 for Children’s of Alabama in its latest annual fundraising campaign.

WHERE LEGENDS ARE MADE

Portrait of Ciara Andrew

FIRST-GEN AND FEARLESS

Ciara Andrew came to UA from Colorado ready to
seize opportunities. She’s building a bold future in
business while mentoring new students.

The ELEPHANT in Every Room

Some legends wear jerseys.
Ours wears a trunk.

Big Al’s roots stretch back to 1930, when sportswriter Everett Strupper first compared Alabama’s football team to a herd of charging elephants. Over the decades, that image grew from a metaphor into a full-fledged mascot — and today, UA stands as the only major university with an elephant leading the charge.

Big Al made his official debut in 1979, trotting onto the field during the Sugar Bowl and stealing the show. Since then, he’s been more than just a sideline presence — he’s a hug magnet, a photo op and a walking celebration of pride, tradition and the unstoppable spirit of our community at every game, pep rally and parade.

Big Al at a football game.

CHAMPIONS without Limits

The University of Alabama’s Adapted Athletics program stands at the forefront of collegiate wheelchair sports, combining world-class competition with state-of-the-art facilities and unmatched championship success.

  • First-of-Their-Kind Facilities – UA is home to Stran-Hardin Arena, the nation’s first collegiate facility built specifically for athletes with disabilities, and the Parker-Haun Tennis Facility, the only collegiate tennis facility in the U.S. designed for adapted student-athletes.
  • Expanding Excellence – Para track and field debuted in 2023 and quickly produced a national champion, with UA athletes competing for spots on Team USA.
  • Unmatched Dominance – Women’s wheelchair basketball secured its fifth consecutive national championship in 2025 (the program’s 11th overall) with current seniors graduating undefeated in championship play.
  • Global Talent – Thirty-four student-athletes from six countries compete across UA’s adapted programs, including six national team members representing the U.S., Great Britain, and France.
  • A Culture of Winning – With 23 national championships across four sports, UA remains the gold standard in adapted athletics, most recently celebrating national titles in women’s wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis.
Adapted athletics college basketball game.

Where GREATNESS Competes

At UA, athletics are more than games — they’re a tradition of excellence that unites the Crimson Tide faithful across the state, nation and world. From SEC titles to national stage victories, UA teams compete at the highest level, driven by a relentless standard of preparation, performance and pride. Game days in Tuscaloosa are legendary, with fans filling iconic venues to create an atmosphere that’s electric, unforgettable and unmatched in collegiate sports.

Whether it’s the roar of Bryant-Denny Stadium, the crack of the bat at Rhoads or Sewell-Thomas, or the echo of cheers in Coleman Coliseum, Crimson Tide spirit runs deep — and winning is simply the expectation.

  • Baseball
  • Football
  • Gymnastics
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Volleyball
  • Basketball
    (Men’s and Women’s)
  • Swimming & Diving
    (Men’s and Women’s)
  • Golf
    (Men’s and Women’s)
  • Tennis
    (Men’s and Women’s)
  • Track & Field, Cross Country
    (Men’s and Women’s)
UA swim team gathers after a swim meet.

2024-25 Crimson Tide HIGHLIGHTS

COMPETITIVE EXCELLENCE

From championship runs to history-making performances, the Crimson Tide once again proved its strength on the national stage. Across every arena, Alabama teams and athletes delivered unforgettable seasons.

  • Consistent Greatness – Earned a Top 25 national finish in the Learfield Directors’ Cup for the fifth straight year.
  • Dominant Year –17 of 21 teams advanced to postseason play; 16 earned national rankings, with seven in the Top 15.
  • Men’s Basketball – Advanced to the Elite Eight for the second year in a row, led by All-American Mark Sears, now the No. 2 all-time scorer in program history.
  • Women’s Basketball – Returned to the NCAA Tournament for a third consecutive year and made history with its first-ever three WNBA Draft picks.
  • Football – Produced a Top 20 finish and seven NFL Draft picks, part of a national-best 140 since 2009.
  • Track & Field – Doris Lemngole captured three national titles, the Honda Sport Award, and set a collegiate record in the steeplechase; Samuel Ogazi won gold in the 400m.
  • Cross Country – Captured its fourth SEC Championship and swept the NCAA South Regional Championships.

ACADEMIC DISTINCTION & NATIONAL RECOGNITION

Excellence at Alabama extends far beyond the field of play. Record-setting GPAs, national honors and graduation success highlight a commitment to achievement in the classroom and beyond.

  • Student-athletes recorded a program-best 3.501 GPA in spring 2025.
  • 199 Crimson Tide graduates earned degrees during the academic year.
  • UA’s average APR of 994.9 included 10 SEC-leading teams and a program-record 998 for football.
  • The Tide ranked No. 6 nationally in Graduation Success Rate, highlighted by football’s record 97 and men’s basketball’s perfect 100 for the 10th consecutive year.
  • Earned six Academic All-America honors in 2025, bringing Alabama’s total to 240 — most in the SEC.
  • A record 484 student-athletes were named to SEC Academic Honor Rolls.

ROLL TIDE!

Basketball teams gathers in huddle after a game.
Aerial view of the UA football stadium at night.

POWERED by the Tide

More than 250,000 living alumni proudly carry The University of Alabama’s legacy into every corner of the globe. From boardrooms to classrooms, research labs to public service, UA graduates are leaders, innovators and change-makers whose impact reflects the values and excellence forged on campus. The Crimson Tide network is a lifelong source of connection, opportunity and pride — a community united by tradition and driven toward the future.

NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHAPTERS

The NAA boasts 95 active alumni chapters of The University of Alabama. This includes 37 in-state chapters, 56 out-of-state chapters spanning 26 states and the District of Columbia, and 2 affinity chapters.

NAA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The NAA Scholarship Program oversees more than 800 scholarship endowments. Among these, over 700 are
linked to alumni chapters, while the remaining are general
endowments. Collectively, these scholarships represent a
giving history of more than $78 million.

CURRENT LIVING ALUMNI COUNT IN THE U.S. AND WORLDWIDE

  • 255,586 in the United States
  • 259,044 worldwide

*Total as of August 2025

J. Frank Barefield posing in front of a UA building

Alumnus J. Frank Barefield Jr.’s $35 million gift names the College of Arts and Sciences and fuels its future.

Alumnus J. Frank Barefield Jr.’s $35 million gift names the College of Arts and Sciences and fuels its future.

RISING Tide

The Rising Tide 2.0 Capital Campaign has entered the final year of its 10-year timeline, with much to celebrate and plenty left to accomplish.

The Rising Tide 2.0 surpassed its $1.8 billion goal in June 2025, more than 15 months ahead of schedule, following a $35 million gift from UA alumnus Frank Barefield to name the J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences. This most recent milestone comes a little over a year after the Campaign reached its original goal of $1.5 billion and announced an even more ambitious elevated goal of $1.8 billion.

The Campaign continues to raise funds to support UA students, faculty and staff through September 2026, when the campaign draws to a close. As of September 2025, UA’s donors to The Rising Tide 2.0 have made contributions resulting in:

  • More than 1,200 new endowed scholarships
  • 65 new faculty support endowments
  • Over 500,000 square feet of newly constructed
    campus facilities
  • Four consecutive fiscal years with annual fundraising productivity exceeding $225 million

The Rising Tide 2.0 is helping elevate UA's student experience to new heights, enhance research, further its excellence in athletics and extend its service mission across the state of Alabama and beyond.

Rising Tide 2.0 Logo

AMONG THE RANKS OF LEGENDS

  • Dr. Gail Houston Cassell
    Pioneering Microbiologist and Global Health Expert
  • Caleb Castille
    Dynamic Actor, Producer, and Mentor
    (“Nothing But a Winner”)
  • Tom Cherones
    Accomplished Director and Producer (“Seinfeld”)
  • Woodrow Wilson "Foots" Clements
    Esteemed Business Executive (Dr. Pepper)
  • Nancy Batson Crews
    Ace Female World War II Pilot
  • Bruce Culpepper
    Powerful Business Leader (Shell Oil Company)
  • Rece Davis
    Industry-Leading Television Sports Journalist (ESPN)
  • Chris Emerson
    Ambitious Aerospace Industry Leader
    (AE Industrial, Airbus U.S. Space and Defense)
  • C.T. Fitzpatrick
    Distinguished Financial Executive
    (Vulcan Value Partners)
  • Dana Garmany
    Pioneer in Golf Management and Philanthropy
  • Charles "Chuck" Gordon
    Box-Office Busting Film Producer
    (“Die Hard,” “Field of Dreams”)
  • Winston Groom
    Sensational Novelist and Nonfiction Writer
    (“Forrest Gump”)
  • Janet Gurwitch
    Remarkable Businesswoman and Investor
    (Advent International, Laura Mercier)
  • John Samuel Hendricks
    Respected Visionary and Businessman (Discovery Channel)
  • Marillyn Hewson
    Commanding Businesswoman (Lockheed Martin)
  • Bob Hines
    Awe-Inspiring NASA Astronaut and U.S. Air Force Colonel
  • Vicki Hollub
    Trailblazing Businesswoman and Engineer
    (Occidental Petroleum Corporation)
  • Harper Lee
    Pulitzer Prize-Winning Literary Icon
    (“To Kill a Mockingbird”)
  • Sonequa Martin-Green
    Rising Film and TV Star (“Walking Dead,”
    “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” “Star Trek: Discovery”)
  • Mike and Kathy Mouron
    Dynamic Philanthropists and Visionary Developers
  • Richard M. Myers
    Passionate Geneticist and Biochemist
  • Jim Nabors
    Beloved Classic Television Icon and Singer
    (“The Andy Griffith Show”)
  • Thom Ranier
    Insightful Theologian and Christian Business Leader
    (LifeWay Christian Resources)
  • Richard and Annette Shelby
    Distinguished U.S. Senator and Philanthropic Family