WINTER 2024
To connect you with what’s happening at the Capstone, we’ve gathered some recent news that may be of interest to you as alumni and as members of the Board of Advisors.
We plan to publish periodically, not only to keep you informed of what’s happening on campus, but also of what’s happening in the world of the BOA membership.
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On Campus
Kalen DeBoer Named Head Coach of Alabama Football.
Kalen DeBoer, winner of the 2023 Associated Press, AFCA, Eddie Robinson, George Munger, Walter Camp and Home Depot Coach of the Year awards, has been selected as head football coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide, Director of Athletics Greg Byrne announced. DeBoer comes to Tuscaloosa after spending the last two seasons at Washington.
Recognized Civic, Business Leader Named AVP for Alumni Affairs.
Jimmy E. Warren has been named associate vice president for Alumni Affairs at The University of Alabama and executive director of the National Alumni Association.
New Randall Welcome Center Showcases Alabama Experience.
The Catherine and Pettus Randall Welcome Center at The University of Alabama has officially opened.
Boudouris to Lead UA Research, Economic Development.
Dr. Bryan W. Boudouris has been named the next vice president for research and economic development at The University of Alabama and began his tenure April 1.
University of Alabama System Chancellor Finis St. John IV to Lead Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership.
University of Alabama System Chancellor Finis “Fess” St. John IV transitioned from his current role to serve as the inaugural executive director of the Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership at The University of Alabama on April 1, 2024.
Of Note
UA Programs Receive Funding to Support Children.
The Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention joined local and state leaders on Jan. 24 to present a check for $1,955,000 to local organizations in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. Of the 18 local organizations, The University of Alabama received support for programs within Child Development Resources and the UA Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic.
Nick Saban Announced Retirement after 17 Seasons at Alabama.
Alabama’s Nick Saban, who has won more college football national championships than any coach in the modern era, announced his retirement on Wednesday, Jan. 10.
UA Miracle Raises $233,200 for Children’s of Alabama.
University of Alabama student-led organization UA Miracle raised $233,200 over the past year for Children’s of Alabama.
Gift to UA Fellows Program Honors Former UA President.
The University Fellows Experience at The University of Alabama has been named for its founder and former UA President Dr. Robert E. Witt following a gift from the family of UA alumna Reta Mudd.
UA Sweeps Top Fulbright Producer Honors for First Time.
The University of Alabama has been recognized as a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students for the seventh time in nine years as well as a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Scholars for the first time.
From the Division
On Thursday, Feb. 8, Rep. Terri Sewell visited campus to make the check presentation announcing the acquisition of a $1.25 million Department of Justice grant. BAMA STOP, a partnership with the College of Education, the College of Human Environmental Sciences, and surrounding school districts to help address violence in schools. Congratulations to Dr. Daniela Susnara, who will serve as the PI on the project.
Class Notes
Congratulations to BOA member Jessica Sanders Walker on the opening of Sanders Flight Training Center in Tuscaloosa. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on April 11. The Grand Opening will be on April 26.
Congratulations to BOA member Colby Leopard. READ Alabama program begun in 2012 by then-student and current BOA member Colby Leopard continues to serve community youth as a part of Engage Tuscaloosa
Congratulations to BOA member Dr. Gabriel Warren and co-host Karl Benson on the launch of their “Changing the Narrative” podcast, now available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music. The podcast aims to amplify the voices of Black men while promoting better understanding and building positive relationships.
Join the Alumni Association here
As BOA members are also UA graduates, we know how invaluable your experience as UA alumni has been. If you have not already done so, please consider joining the National Alumni Association.
Have news to share with us?
If you have not already done so, we encourage you to follow us on: Twitter at: @UACommAffairs and on Facebook at: @UACommunityAffairs, @UA.CCBP, @UACrossroads, @UAPTLA, @SavingLivesPhysicallyAndSpiritually
Additionally, did you know the Board of Advisors has its own Facebook group page? This is a place for you to connect with your fellow board members, as well as share news of potential interest to members of the group. Search “ua community affairs board of advisors” and ask to join the group. We’ll approve you right away!