Over 1,500 Gifts Blast Bama Blitz Past $2 Million

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama raised more than $2 million in gifts during its sixth annual giving days, Bama Blitz. More than 1,564 gifts were made by 1,477 donors during the crowdfunded, social-media-driven campaign.

Bama Blitz, which began at noon April 18 and ended at noon April 20, showcased passion projects from UA colleges and schools while tallying gifts made in real-time via online dashboards. The goal of Bama Blitz is to encourage giving at any level while highlighting unique and impactful projects that might otherwise go without funding.

“We are a united community at The University of Alabama,” said President Stuart R. Bell. “UA faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends consistently support our mission and generously donate to projects that amplify the Alabama experience.”

Bryant Bank matched gifts given to campus projects up to a total of $50,000, providing additional support to areas across campus. To date, Bryant Bank has matched $200,000 through their support of three annual giving campaigns.

“At Bryant Bank, we believe that investing in education is investing in the future of our communities,” said Claude Edwards, president of Bryant Bank. “We are proud to support The University of Alabama and its commitment to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Through this donation, we hope to empower the next generation of leaders and we encourage everyone to join us in this endeavor. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow for our communities and beyond.”

UA’s faculty and staff giving campaign, We Are UA, also concluded April 20 in conjunction with Bama Blitz. Both Bama Blitz and We Are UA highlight the impact of a large number of small gifts. Of the gifts made during Bama Blitz, 95% were $500 or less.

Some of the projects that surpassed their fundraising goals include:

Bringing communications students to cities like Los Angeles, New York City, Washington D.C., Atlanta and Nashville to network with industry professionals and explore job opportunities in leading markets.

Helping engineering students build better concrete canoes, allowing them to compete at a higher level i­n national competitions.

Connecting UA students with local Tuscaloosa elementary students through Al’s Pals, a mentorship program equipping UA students with leadership skills while inspiring the city’s youngest scholars with a love of learning.

All gifts to Bama Blitz are part of The Rising Tide Capital Campaign, a universitywide effort to elevate UA to new heights through enhancing scholarships, faculty endowments, facilities and athletics.

The next Bama Blitz will be in spring 2024.