The University of Alabama rolled to new heights in 2024 making headlines along the way. From new buildings and facilities to research efforts in AI and beyond, here are some of the top news stories from the UA News Center this past year.
Say Hello to the Randall Welcome Center
January marked the unveiling of the Cathy and Randall Pettus Welcome Center, where visitors can get a taste of what the University has to offer.
Welcoming Dr. Boudouris
In January, UA welcomed its new vice president for research and economic development. As VP, Dr. Bryan Boudouris oversees the Office for Research and Economic Development, which collaborates with other UA departments to catalyze, support and safeguard research and scholarship activity.
The Return of the University Club
In May, the fully renovated University Club reopened. In addition to offering memberships for the community, the historic club provides hands-on learning opportunities for students in the College of Human Environmental Sciences Hospitality Management program.
New AI Research Center
This summer, the University announced the formation of the Alabama Center for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence, housed within the College of Engineering. The new center unifies new and existing work across campus, greatly expanding research, education and outreach activities related to the development and application of artificial intelligence.
Roll Tide in Paris
Three University of Alabama student-athletes and 14 alumni representing a total of 14 countries competed in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Capstone Learning Academy Opens
In addition to re-opening a landmark, the University celebrated the opening of a new facility — the Capstone Learning Academy. The child learning center opened in the fall and serves faculty, staff and student families as well as the greater community.
Enrollment Smashes Records
This fall, UA made history by breaking records for incoming freshmen from in-state and total enrollment.
UA’s First Drone Show
Homecoming 2024 was a special one as UA lit up the sky with more than 500 drones in a spectacular show that drew thousands of fans to the Quad to see the show. Students even got to have a hand in bringing the show to life.
UA’s Newest Rhodes Scholar
In November, UA announced Kate Herndon as the University’s 17th graduate to earn the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship.