UA Preview — Nov. 17-23, 2025

BEST BETS

UA's Economic Impact Sets Records

The University of Alabama continues to be an economic driver for the state as its flagship university set record high economic and fiscal impacts for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Why This Matters: According to latest UA economic impact report conducted by the Center for Business and Economic Research in the UA Culverhouse College of Business, the University's $3.4 billion economic impact on the state and $2.354 billion impact on the Tuscaloosa metro area economy are record highs.

For more information, contact Alex House at [email protected].

LEAD Program Named for Late Alumnus

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has approved the naming of the Culverhouse College of Business' signature student leadership and professional development initiative in recognition of a $5 million gift commitment from the family of the late Robert James "Jim" Kelly.

Why This Matters: The R. James Kelly Leveraging Engagement to Advance Development program, or Kelly LEAD for short, prepares undergraduates to lead with integrity, empathy and strategic insight through immersive workshops and events, one-on-one mentoring and community engagement projects to help students develop in-demand soft-skills.

For more information, contact Alex House at [email protected].

UA Creates School of Leadership and Policy

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has approved the creation of The University of Alabama School of Leadership and Policy, building on the Capstone's storied history of educating effective civic leaders and policymakers who have shaped the state of Alabama and the nation.

Why This Matters: The School will provide interdisciplinary, practice-oriented education that prepares students of all backgrounds to become effective leaders, policymakers and public servants who will contribute to Alabama's and the country's social, economic and civic well-being starting fall 2027.

For more information, contact Alex House at [email protected].

Two Faculty Members Honored with NSF CAREER Awards

Dr. James Harris and Dr. Igor Fedin have received the National Science Foundation's most prestigious early-career award for the 2025 academic year.

Why This Matters: The NSF CAREER Award recognizes scientists and engineers who show leadership at the intersection of education and research. The awards provide funding for innovative research in science, engineering and technology that supports national priorities and shows a commitment to service through scientific leadership, education or community outreach.

For more information, contact Jessica Nelson at [email protected].

Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute Hosts Demo Day

The Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute will host its annual Demo Day Nov. 20 at The EDGE.

Why This Matters: Attendees will be able to network with local startups and learn about companies based in West Alabama. Student and community entrepreneurs will showcase their businesses and hold workshops during the free all-day come-and-go event.

For more information, contact Theresa Welbourne at [email protected].

CURRENT COMMENT

As National Rural Health Day approaches Nov. 20, Dr. Drake Lavender, director of CCHS Rural Programs, is available to discuss how UA has created a pipeline of physicians and dentists for Alabama's rural communities.

EVENTS

River Pitch Business Ideas Competition

Nov. 18; Tuscaloosa River Market

"Life After the MFA:" An Evening of Readings

Nov. 18; Gorgas Library Room 2020

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The University of Alabama strives to remain neutral on public policy issues. Strategic Communications may facilitate interviews or share opinions expressed by faculty, staff, students, or other individuals regarding policy matters. However, those opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the University or its leadership, and do not constitute a statement on behalf of the University unless explicitly designated.