University of Alabama President Stuart R. Bell recognized UA’s record-setting year for gifts and numerous accolades during last week’s Board of Trustees meeting.
Bell noted the contributions of the Hewson family, Hugh F. Culverhouse Jr. and the more than 62,300 donors who helped raise more than $224.3 million during the last fiscal year.
“This impressive fundraising accomplishment is a historic milestone that raises the bar even higher for what the University can achieve for future growth and development through the support of our friends and alumni,” said Bell.
In addition to mentioning the support UA received, Bell also highlighted the UA Dance Marathon, a student-led organization, for raising more than $1 million for Children’s of Alabama over the past seven years. The organization was honored with a plaque on the Pillars of the Community at Children’s in September.
Bell recognized UA students for numerous achievements, including the more than one million hours of volunteer service performed over the past year and more than 600 National Merit Scholars on campus.
“We are preparing the next generation of thought leaders, innovators, researchers and trailblazers,” said Bell. “A degree from The University of Alabama is an investment in the future, and as we see from graduates like Millard Fuller, founder of Habitat for Humanity, or E.O. Wilson, biologist and a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, the impact of UA’s education is far-reaching and profound.”
The achievements of faculty were also mentioned. Bell honored Drs. Samantha Hansen and Gregory Starr for earning Fulbright Awards to conduct research in Greece and France, respectively. In addition, Bell congratulated UA faculty for earning almost $100 million in external grants and contracts over the past year for research, service and fellowships, the highest in UA history.
“Clearly, the University is research driven,” said Bell. “We are seeing lives changed by what our professors and our students are achieving while on this campus, and their work also helps us continue to receive national rankings for many of our premier academic programs.”
In closing, Bell reaffirmed his commitment to recruiting the best and brightest students the state has to offer through scholarships and by not raising tuition for in-state students this fall. He also thanked the board for its support.
“I am honored to be the president of this University,” said Bell. “With your support, our leadership team will continue advancing the flagship. We truly could not accomplish all that we do without your faithful counsel, and so I thank you for your influence and guidance.”