Remembering Autherine Lucy Foster

March 2, 2022 Written by Laura Braddick 2 min read
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Updated March 25 and 28 to include memorial service videos. Updated March 22 to include link to tribute webpage. Updated March 8 to include memorial service information.

Text that reads In Loving Memory Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster 1929-2022
Tributes & Reflections

The UA community is deeply saddened by the passing of our friend, Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster. While we mourn the loss of a legend who embodied love, integrity and a spirit of determination, we are comforted by knowing her legacy will continue at The University of Alabama and beyond. We were privileged to dedicate Autherine Lucy Hall in her honor just last week and to hear her words of encouragement for our students. Dr. Foster will always be remembered as one who broke barriers, reminded us of the respect due to every individual and lived a life of strength in steadfast service to her students and community.

-Dr. Stuart R. Bell, President

Memorial Service

The community gathered to honor Dr. Foster’s life and legacy at a memorial service on March 24, 2022, in Foster Auditorium. View the recording of the memorial service in its entirety.

A Look Back on Dr. Foster’s Legacy at UA

Memorial Service, March 2022

UA Dedicates Autherine Lucy Hall, February 2022

Tributes from Attendees of the Autherine Lucy Hall Dedication Ceremony, February 2022

From the Archives

Autherine Lucy Foster Receives Honorary UA Doctorate, May 2019

Historic Marker Honors Civil Rights Hero, September 2017

Dedication of Malone-Hood Plaza and Autherine Lucy Clock Tower, November 2010

50th Anniversary of Autherine Lucy Foster’s Enrollment, February 2006

The Story of Autherine Lucy Foster

Photo Gallery

black and white photo of Dr. Foster from 1956.
Dr. Foster on campus in 1956.
Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster ad her daughter
In 1989, Dr. Foster enrolled again at UA, joining her daughter, Grazia.
Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster wearing a black robe
Dr. Foster at the 40th anniversary celebration of the desegregation of UA in 2003.
the Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster clock tower
The Autherine Lucy Clock Tower in Malone-Hood Plaza was dedicated to the trailblazer in 2010.
Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster walking down a hallway with two other women
Dr. Foster has many scholarships, programs and awards named in her honor.
Dr. foster and her husband sitting in wheelchairs next to the historical marker
Dr. Foster with her husband, Hugh Lawrence Foster, at the dedication of the historical marker telling her story.
a large group of students surround Dr. Foster in her wheelchair
Dr. Foster was an inspiration to all who had the privilege to meet her.
Dr. Foster on stage receiving her honorary doctorate of human letters from Dr. Bell
In 2019, Dr. Foster was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University.
a group of people doing a ribbon cutting
UA dedicated Autherine Lucy Hall on Feb. 25.
Dr. Autherine Lucy Foster
In her remarks on Feb. 25, Dr. Foster said, “If I am a master teacher, do you know what I hope I’m teaching you? That love will take care of everything in our world.”