UA Preview — June 15-21, 2026

BEST BETS

UA names associate provost, dean of Graduate School

The University of Alabama has named Dr. André Denham as its next associate provost and dean of the Graduate School following a national search. He will begin his appointment July 1.

Why This Matters: As associate provost and dean of the Graduate School, Denham will lead a forward-looking vision for graduate education, with a focus on aligning doctoral programs with the needs of the state of Alabama and the nation. He will work with department, college and University leaders to develop new graduate programs, strengthen recruitment and funding, streamline admissions and student progress, and promote high standards for graduate student mentorship and success.

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

Study shows national identity found through international sports

This summer, the United States will be hosting FIFA World Cup games for the first time since 1994. Dr. John Vincent, a professor of sport management at The University of Alabama, has studied the fanfare around huge international sporting events for three decades. His recent book, "Sport, National Identities and the Media: Battling Brits", explores the way these competitions become a stage on which national identity is celebrated, contested and reimagined.

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

Alabama Business Hall of Fame Inducts Seven New Members

The Alabama Business Hall of Fame will welcome seven new members for the Class of 2026. The inductees are William P. Ainsworth, Guntersville; J. Frank Barefield Jr., Vestavia Hills; Bobby A. Bradley, Athens; John F. Croyle, Rainbow City; H. Corbin Day, Birmingham; J. Thomas Hill, Birmingham; Scott M. Phelps, Tuscaloosa.

Why This Matters: The Hall of Fame, established in 1973, honors individuals who have brought lasting fame to the state of Alabama through their business contributions.

For more information, contact Zach Thomas at [email protected].

UA selects inaugural dean of new School of Leadership and Policy

Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Parker H. Wright has been selected as the inaugural dean of The University of Alabama's new School of Leadership and Policy. He will begin his appointment Aug. 1.

Why This Matters: As the inaugural dean, Wright will lead the establishment and growth of the School of Leadership and Policy, advancing initiatives that align with the University's mission to develop leaders, strengthen communities and expand its global impact. He will work closely with campus leadership and University partners to create interdisciplinary programs that bridge public service, policy and leadership development.

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

Ancient wildfires caused ocean collapse

Research led by UA found that widespread wildfires during one of Earth's ancient environmental crises did not trigger an ocean collapse but was a consequence of it.

Why This Matters: The study, published in Science Advances in April, revisits the Late Devonian period, when large parts of the coastal ocean became oxygen-depleted, disrupting marine ecosystems on a global scale. This period is considered one of the five great extinction events in Earth's history.

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

EVENTS

Moundville for Minis: "We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga"

June 17; Moundville Archaeological Park

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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.