UA Preview — Jan. 21-26, 2025

📰 BEST BETS 

Bell to Step Down as UA President in July 

Dr. Stuart R. Bell, the 29th president of The University of Alabama, has announced his plans to step down from the presidency mid-summer, completing a decade of excellence in leadership.  

Why This Matters: The announcement comes as the University celebrates unparalleled achievements in enrollment, academic quality, research activity and funding, fundraising, athletics, campus development and more during his tenure. In the last century, only Presidents George Denny and Frank Rose have served more years working in the role. His thoughtfully planned transition leaves the campus in a position of distinction and strength.  

Things to Look Forward to in 2025 

It’s a new year at the Capstone and that means new opportunities, new milestones, new frontiers for exploration and more.  

Why This Matters: The new year will see a new core curriculum, eight electric buses and the reopening of McLure Library after major renovations, and much more. 

💬 CURRENT COMMENT 

Dr. Jessica Maddox, associate professor of digital media technology, is available to discuss the future of Tik Tok.

Sheena Gregg, a registered dietician nutritionist and director of the department of health promotion and wellness, is available to discuss ways to stay motivated to keep your health and wellness resolutions. Contact Gregg at sqgregg@ua.edu

📅 EVENTS 

Seniors in Science: Basics of Birding 

Jan. 22; Alabama Museum of Natural History 

UA Winter Cabaret 

Jan. 22-23; University Club 

Chinese Year of Snake New Year Gala 

Jan. 26; UA Student Center Ballroom 

Movement in the Museum: Candlelit Yoga 

Jan. 28; Alabama Museum of Natural History 

NEED A SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT ON TOPICS MAKING NEWS? — See our frequently updated experts directory here.  

VISIT THE UA NEWS CENTER FOR 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.