Second Annual Bama Blitz Exceeds $2.5 Million

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — University of Alabama officials announced a successful second annual Bama Blitz, raising more than $2.5 million in gifts from 1,826 supporters across the country.

Donors from all 50 states contributed during the one-day, eight-hour and 31-minute campaign – a timeframe that celebrated UA’s founding year, 1831.

Bama Blitz, which began at noon April 10 and ended at 8:31 p.m. April 11, was powered by a crowdfunding and social media strategy that showcased passion projects from colleges and schools and charted gifts on a real-time leaderboard. Its primary focus was on building support for a series of unique and impactful projects that might otherwise go without funding.

“The success of Bama Blitz is a testament to those who love this university,” said Bob Pierce, UA vice president for advancement. “We are in awe of their generous spirit and know that the continued success of this innovative and exciting event will make a huge impact.”

Bama Blitz coincided with the conclusion of We Are UA, the University’s new faculty and staff campaign. During the eight-week campaign, UA employees had the opportunity to support the school, department, student scholarship, building campaign or other area of their choice with 100 percent of their gifts going directly to the respective funds.

Bryant Bank pledged to match all UA faculty and staff gifts contributed to a variety of funds up to a total of $50,000, providing additional support to a number of areas across campus.

“While we are still tallying the numbers for We Are UA, we are thrilled with the enthusiastic response we have received from faculty and staff, which shows their commitment to the University,” said Allison Leitner, executive director of fundraising initiatives.

Managed by the Office of Annual Giving, We Are UA and Bama Blitz both showcase the philanthropic spirit of the Capstone by offering opportunities to give at any level.

Of the 1,826 gifts received during Bama Blitz, 93% were $500 or less, proving the impact a large number of small gifts can make.

Some of the more substantial gifts that contributed to the campaign’s success include:

• A commitment of $100,000 from Samir and Poonam Shah, of Saratoga, California, to support the UA College of Engineering
• A matching gift commitment of $5,000 from first generation college student, scholarship recipient and Alabama Football legend Jerry Duncan in support of the Crimson Tide Scholarship Fund
• A matching gift commitment of $2,000 from the UA Capstone Education Society Board in support of the College of Education
• A $50,000 contribution to the Culverhouse College of Business in loving memory of their mother and grandmother, Mary E. Adams, by the Hewson Family Foundation

“The projects and initiatives that receive support from Bama Blitz will allow UA students to achieve their goals and will enhance the positive impact The University of Alabama has on the community, state and beyond,” said Mary Lawhorn, director of annual giving.

The next Bama Blitz will be held in April 2020.