UA in the News: Jan. 28, 2016

UA fundraising challenge raises $3.6 million in scholarships
WVUA 23 (Tuscaloosa) – Jan. 27
A fundraising challenge raises $3.6 million for University of Alabama students. Hugh and Eliza Culverhouse raised $2 million for Culverhouse College of Commerce. That money will help pay scholarships for students like Aaron Fenton, a triple major from New Jersey. 1,000 other donors helped match the money, funding scholarships and other needs at the Business School.
Fox 6 (Birmingham) – Jan. 27

UA’s Intercultural Diversity Center set to open
CBS 42 (Birmingham) – Jan. 27
Persistence and motivation is paying off for some UA students committed to making the University of Alabama more culturally diverse. UA officials worked hand in hand with a group of minority students and will soon open the Intercultural Diversity Center on campus. Students calling themselves “We are Done” marched across campus last November to protest for more racial diversity and equality. UA student Amanda Bennett says she and others are thrilled the administration is listening to them.
NBC 13 (Birmingham) – Jan. 27

UA professors create Professional Image Workshop
WVUA 23 (Tuscaloosa) – Jan. 27
For those who are trying to get ahead in the business world, University of Alabama professors have created a brand new workshop for professionals that are looking to build their public speaking skills. The interactive workshop will take place on February 5 from 9 until 3 p.m. Creator Dr. Alexa Chilcutt, says participants will learn how to craft professional messages, and how to make an effective first impression, also known as an elevator pitch.

96 local students make Dean’s or President’s lists at UA
Trussville Tribune – Jan. 27
According to the University of Alabama, a total of 10,626 students, including 96 from Clay, Pinson and Trussville, enrolled during the 2015 fall semester at UA were named to the Dean’s List with an academic record of 3.5 (or above) or the President’s List with an academic record of 4.0 (all A’s). The UA Dean’s and President’s lists recognize full-time undergraduate students. The list does not apply to graduate students or undergraduate students who take less than a full course load.

Longtime University of Alabama professor who influenced local arts scene dies
Tuscaloosa News – Jan. 27
John Ross, longtime theater professor, designer and director, and a “godfather of the arts” in Tuscaloosa, died Wednesday at DCH Regional Medical Center. He was 76. Ross helped found the Arts and Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa and the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham, and served as a driving force behind the evolution of Tuscaloosa Community Players and SummerShow into what is now Theatre Tuscaloosa, all while serving the University of Alabama faculty from 1965 to 1996. Theatre Tuscaloosa Artistic Director Emeritus Paul K. Looney, once Ross’ student, later a friend and colleague, said he’ll be remembered not just for theatrical knowledge and abilities, but for a raconteur’s wit, and endless fascination with all facets of life.

UA baseball team gives media a tour of the new Sewell-Tomas Stadium
WVUA 23 (Tuscaloosa) – Jan. 27
The University of Alabama is celebrating the opening of its newly renovated baseball stadium. The athletic department added dozens of new features to Sewell-Thomas Stadium. The renovations come with a $42.5 million price tag.
Fox 6 (Birmingham) – Jan. 27
NBC 13 (Birmingham) – Jan. 27