UA Preview — June 10-16, 2024

📰 BEST BETS 

NSF CAREER Awards 

Four professors at The University of Alabama received one of the National Science Foundation’s CAREER Awards, one of the most prestigious honors for early-career faculty. 

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 to support projects that advance science alongside national priorities and serve the community through education and outreach. 

Autonomous Bus Safety 

With a grant from the Federal Transit Administration and the United States Department of Transportation, The University of Alabama is gearing up for a $3 million project to develop advanced driver assistance systems for large transit buses. 

Why This Matters: The project will bring automated safety features available only in personal vehicles to mass transit, beginning with Crimson Ride. Perrone Robotics, Inc., a leader in commercial automated and autonomous vehicle technology, is a key partner on the project. 

Record Donation to National Alumni Association 

UA’s National Alumni Association has received an $8 million gift from the estate of Bill Decas, the largest single gift the NAA has ever received. 

Why This Matters: The gift will enhance four previously created in-state scholarships and create a fifth endowed scholarship for out-of-state students. 

💬 CURRENT COMMENT 

With June 10-16 being Men’s Health Week, Dr. Grier Stewart is available to discuss men’s health topics and issues.  

📅 EVENTS 

Saturday in the Park: Tools and Weapons 

June 15; Moundville Archaeological Park  
 

Need a subject matter expert on news-making topics? See our frequently updated experts directory here.  

Visit the UA News Center for more story ideas. 

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.