university of alabama Archives

The University of Alabama community gathered in large numbers this week to honor the life of student James “Jimmy” Gracey, holding a series of memorial events in Tuscaloosa following his death during spring break in Spain.

A standing-room-only Catholic mass was held Monday evening at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish, where students, friends, and faculty filled the church to capacity.

The remembrance continued Tuesday night, when hundreds gathered outside the Theta Chi fraternity house for a candlelight vigil organized by Gracey’s fraternity brothers.

Speakers at the vigil, including Theta Chi International President Toby Roth, shared personal reflections on Gracey’s character as mourners filled the lawn and surrounding areas. The University of Alabama President Peter Mohler also attended.

Friends remembered Gracey as someone known for his compassion and generosity.

“Jimmy was always smiling — like, just a big smiler,” one speaker said. “And Jimmy was so compassionate.”

Another fraternity brother described his integrity in everyday moments.

Speaking about times Jimmy would ask to borrow his car, one fraternity brother shared, “My gas tank was always a little more full than when I left it … That was the kind of guy Jimmy was.”

Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama junior, died last week while on spring break in Barcelona, Spain. He had been out with friends at a nightclub before disappearing in the early morning hours of March 17, prompting a widespread search.

Authorities later located his body in a nearby marina. A preliminary autopsy indicated the death was likely accidental, and police have said they are not currently pursuing criminal charges as they await final toxicology results.

The report noted that large crowds gathered for both memorial events, underscoring the impact Gracey had on his peers and the broader campus community.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

As a prelude to this year’s Power & Influence Top 50 list, launching April 1 in a special 15th anniversary year for Yellowhammer News, we are proud to continue a tradition that asks an important question in Alabama’s political landscape: Who’s Next?

Year after year, Power & Influence offers the most candid insight into the top 50 influential leaders moving the needle in Montgomery across business, politics and public service — leveraging their influence to the benefit of Alabama.

Today, we’re directing that insight into the next generation of Alabama leaders. The eleven individuals below are described in a quote from leaders speaking to their impact, effectiveness, and upward trajectory. They are each well on their way to running the state.

Emory Cox

Special Assistant to the President for International Economic Relations

“I’m incredibly proud to see Emory receive this honor, but in no way am I surprised. Emory’s personable nature, vast policy knowledge, and sharp political instincts are far beyond his years.

He proved to be an incredible asset to my office and the State of Alabama during his four years as my Senior Economic Advisor, and is now playing a critical role in helping carry out President Trump’s economic agenda to help all Americans.

From Larry Kudlow to Kevin Hassett, Emory has learned under some of the most brilliant economic leaders in American history, while coming into his own as a leader in this space. One of the things I most admire about Emory is that his success has never caused him to forget where he came from.

He is a proud Pell City native and keeps his Alabama values at the forefront of everything he does.

Emory’s dedication to public service and his love for our great state will continue to bring about meaningful results in both Washington, D.C. and Alabama.”

– U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)

Maggie Oliver

Chief Development Officer, Alabama Port Authority

“In leadership and in economic development, vision and strategic focus are essential to driving meaningful growth. Maggie Oliver embodies both.

Throughout her time at the Alabama Port Authority, she has articulated a clear and compelling vision for how the Port has and will serve as a catalyst for economic development across our state – strengthening supply chains, attracting new industry, and expanding opportunities for Alabama businesses.

Maggie has a presence that commands a room, but more importantly, she pairs that presence with thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to Alabama’s future.

I am excited to see her continued leadership at the Port and know she will have a positive impact on our state for many years to come.”

– Zeke Smith, Chairman, Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors

Harrison Adams

Alabama Department of Workforce

“As SGA president at the University of Alabama, Harrison Adams learned much about constituents and politics. He had interest early in his career to positively engage in state government policy growth.

He brought that interest and experience to my Senate President Pro Tem office growing strong relationships, while accomplishing much with our team.

He has spent the last 15 months navigating change that is yielding strong outcomes as a Deputy Secretary at the Alabama Department of Workforce.

His calm and efficient demeanor has elevated the department’s profile and effectiveness with all those he interacts with.

Harrison continues to impress me and many in our state as his impact through dedicated and effective public service continues to grow.”

– Greg Reed, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce

Kristin Hellmich

Director of External Communications, Poarch Creek Indians

“Kristin Hellmich leads with intention, listens carefully, and understands the responsibility that comes with telling the story of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

Kristin approaches her work with respect for our history and a clear eye toward the future, ensuring our voice is represented accurately and authentically.

In a fast‑moving and often complicated political environment, her steady approach and sound judgment make a meaningful difference.”

– Stephanie Bryan, Chairwoman and CEO of Poarch Creek Indians

Phillip Johns

Chief Financial Officer, Alabama Farmers Federation

“As chief financial officer, Phillip has transformed the Federation’s accounting, membership and Alfa Health divisions through technology, professional development and expanded services for members and county Federations.

His investment strategies have resulted in record growth for Alabama FarmPAC and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, deepening the organization’s impact in both the political arena and philanthropic efforts such as scholarships and Ag in the Classroom. Last year, Phillip and his team led implementation of Alfa Health Plans, delivering an affordable health care option for members just five months after Gov. Kay Ivey signed the legislation into law.

Phillip is a graduate of the Alfa Leadership Academy, a successful small business owner and newly appointed member of the Dixie Electric Cooperative board of directors.

He is a devoted husband and father and embodies Alfa’s Core 4 Values of Faith, Family, Community and Integrity. Phillip is already building a legacy of leadership within our organization and certainly is deserving of recognition.”

– Paul Pinyan, Executive Director, Alabama Farmers Federation

Lindsey McAdory

CEO and Chief Strategist CBG Strategies, LLC

“Lindsey McAdory has many exceptional attributes. He’s a seasoned political storyteller who can frame the challenges facing our city and develop a plan of action.

He’s a builder — bringing people together, forging strong partnerships, and uniting leaders into coalitions that get things done. And when crisis situations arise, Lindsey excels at mapping out effective solutions.

But what truly sets Lindsey apart is his vision. He sees where Birmingham is headed, and he knows how to carve the path to get there.

He helps us turn potential into promise. Lindsey’s not just thinking about the next step forward; he’s charting the course for what comes next. His eyes are fixated on building a better Birmingham.”

– Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham

Saylor Cuzzort

Communications Director + Alabama Senate Republican Caucus

“It is rare to find a person who possesses true talent, innate instinct and abundant affability in the perfect balance, but one such person is Saylor Cuzzort.

Her love for this state and insatiable work ethic are exceeded only by her ability and her integrity.

Saylor’s impressive intelligence enables her to effectively analyze all facets of a complicated issue, but what most distinguishes her from other capable young people is her ability to act on her knowledge and timely execute the task at hand with grace and poise.

With everything she does, her kindness and humility shine through, and I’m excited to see all the ways in which she impacts our state and our nation for the better — she’s just getting started!”

– Caroleene Dobson, 2026 candidate, Alabama Secretary of State

Annie Dunne Meissner

Director of Finance and Events, Alabama Republican Party

“Annie Meissner has quickly become an invaluable leader on the Alabama Republican Party team.

As Director of Events and Finance, she has been instrumental in strengthening our fundraising efforts while planning and executing events that bring together grassroots supporters, donors, and Republican leaders from across Alabama.

If you’ve attended an ALGOP event recently, you’ve likely seen Annie’s work firsthand. She executed an incredibly successful Trump Victory Dinner featuring Donald Trump Jr., organized a sold-out Candidate Meet & Greet with Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville, and leads numerous donor events that keep our supporters engaged.

Annie is absolutely a rising leader in Alabama politics.”

– Shannon Whitt, Chief of Staff, Alabama Republican Party

Anna Grace Gamble

External Affairs Manager, Alabama Rural Electric Association

“Anna Grace has been an exceptional addition to the Electric Cooperative family. She reflects the values and character of our members and has cultivated invaluable relationships with legislators and policymakers that help advance the cooperative mission.

She is thoughtful, professional, and well-regarded by those around her. She brings a steady presence to her work and approaches it with care. Those qualities have helped her make a positive impression early in her career, and will continue to do so.”

– Sean Strickler, Chief Operating Officer, Alabama Rural Electric Association

Scott McClintock

Vice president of Policy and Public Affairs, Business Council of Alabama

“Scott’s recognition on Yellowhammer’s ‘Who’s Next’ list is a well-deserved honor and a testament to the impact he has already made in Alabama’s policy and political landscape.

Scott brings a rare combination of strategic insight, policy expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing pro-growth, pro-business solutions for our state.

His leadership has strengthened BCA’s advocacy efforts and helped ensure the voice of Alabama’s job creators is heard clearly in Montgomery and beyond.

We are proud to see him recognized as one of the rising leaders shaping Alabama’s future.”

– Helena Duncan, President and CEO, Business Council of Alabama

Justice Smyth

Executive Director, Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority

“I couldn’t be more proud to see Justice receive this well-deserved recognition. His strategic thinking, uncompromising integrity, and commitment to results have made a real difference for our community and for economic development across our region.

He approaches every challenge with intelligence and purpose, and he does so with the kind of character that makes everyone around him better.

Justice represents the very best of what a young leader in this field can be, and I am confident his impact on our state will only continue to grow.”

– Tim Parker, III, President & CEO, Parker Towing Company

Yellowhammer News’ 15th Anniversary Power of Service event will be held on April 7, 2026 in Montgomery. The 2026 Power & Influence list will debut its first installment of 10 honorees on April 1, 2026. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact courtney@yellowhammernews.com.

The University of Alabama had an exciting visitor last week with the iconic 27-foot Oscar Mayer Wienermobile making its grand return to Tuscaloosa, this time being piloted by a Crimson Tide alum.

Gabby Fulkerson, who is also known as “Grill ‘Em Up Gabby,” was the Hotdogger bringing the huge vehicle — which is the length of 60 hot dogs — to the student center.

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After graduating from Alabama last May, Fulkerson has traveled around the country with the Wienermobile as a spokeswoman for Oscar Mayer at various events, however coming back to Tuscaloosa certainly has to be her favorite.

In the midst of her one-year Hotdogger stint which began last June, Fulkerson certainly has to have one of the more unique post-graduation jobs a UA student could possibly have. As she continues to represent the hotdog giant across the country, she will certainly continue to add a flavor of Roll Tide to it as well.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.

“Remember the Rose Bowl, we’ll win then.”

That line is from the University of Alabama’s famous fight song, “Yea, Alabama!” For a number of decades, the song’s historical Rose Bowl reference had little meaning for Bama students and younger fans.

That’s because Alabama could not play in the Rose Bowl. Two conferences nowhere near the Southeast had contracts to send their conference champs to the Rose Bowl on January 1.

For years, it was a contest between the Pac-10 champion and the Big Ten champion.

No Alabama. No SEC.

That has changed.

On January 1, 1926, Alabama had been invited to the Rose Bowl for the first time. Until that date, college football was considered to be a West Coast and Northeast thing.

Southern teams weren’t taken seriously. Alabama had a great team. In the 1925 season, they were 10-0, winning the Southern Conference championship in their first-ever perfect season. They were led by third-year Coach Wallace Wade.

The 1926 Rose Bowl showcased the best of the South vs. the best of the West, with Alabama vs. Washington. It was anticipated to be a close game and was, with Bama winning 20-19.

That game put Alabama on the national football radar. They have mostly stayed on that radar screen ever since and gradually developed into the most-watched team in the country.

The very next year, it was Alabama back to the Rose Bowl for the second year in a row—and an even closer game. The defensive struggle ended with Alabama 7, Stanford 7. In those days, there were no overtimes, so a tie was a tie.

Bama suffered its first loss in the Rose Bowl in 1937, losing to California 13-0.

Then it was back in the win column in 1946, with Alabama 34, USC 14.

That was the last Alabama trip to the Rose Bowl for 74 years, as the conference tie-ins prevented the Tide from going.

By 2020, the conference tie-ins to the Rose Bowl were gone with the wind. Now, the Rose Bowl would, in many years, feature a preliminary round in the College Football Playoff. Bama was back in that playoff game and returned to its winning way of nearly three-quarters of a century ago, beating Notre Dame 31-14. That Rose Bowl had been moved from Pasadena to Arlington, Texas, because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

In 2024, Alabama went to the Rose Bowl in the College Football Playoff. They lost 27-20 to eventual national champion Michigan in overtime. It was a vital loss, as it turned out to be legendary Coach Nick Saban’s final game at Alabama. We didn’t know that until well after the team returned to Tuscaloosa.

Alabama’s all-time Rose Bowl record is five wins, two losses, and one tie.

Now, Alabama is going back to Pasadena and the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2026. It just happens to be on the 100th anniversary of Alabama’s very first trip to the “granddaddy of them all” in 1926.

It’s another South vs. North Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day 2026, with Alabama challenging the No. 1 seed, undefeated Indiana. It will also test whether Alabama’s defense can contain Indiana’s Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, Fernando Mendoza.

It’s an interesting thing. Since Bama made a comeback for the ages and won its game against Oklahoma, I have talked to five or six Alabama fans. None of them can remember the name of the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner from Indiana who Alabama now faces. Something tells me we will hear the name a lot in the buildup to Rose Bowl 2026 and during the play-by-play of the New Year’s Day game.

The announcers and commentators will inevitably compare Mr. Heisman to Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. Even Alabama fans will tell you that Simpson, his line, and his receivers have been inconsistent this season.

If there was ever a time for Ty Simpson to play his best game (and for his line to protect him, and for his receivers not to drop the ball), this is that time — playing the top-ranked team, facing the Heisman quarterback, in the Rose Bowl, on New Year’s Day, with perhaps the largest viewing audience.

For Bama’s pluck and grit have writ her name in crimson flame.

Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com

State Sen. Gerald Allen (R-Tuscaloosa) is honoring the legacy of conservative activist Charlie Kirk with a new scholarship that will be available to students in the Yellowhammer State.

Allen, who represents the Tuscaloosa region in the Alabama Senate, announced the creation of the Charlie Kirk Memorial Endowed Scholarship at The University of Alabama on Monday. The scholarship is established in memory of Charlie Kirk.

Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA and became well known for holding political debates on college campuses, was killed by an assassin’s bullet during an outdoor event on Utah Valley University’s campus.

“Charlie Kirk stood for perseverance, leadership and the ideal of serving something bigger than oneself,” Allen said. “By establishing this scholarship at The University of Alabama, we honor his legacy and invest in the next generation of leaders from our state who will carry forward those same values.”

The Charlie Kirk Memorial Endowed Scholarship, administered by The University of Alabama National Alumni Association, will provide annual financial awards to incoming or continuing undergraduate students.

Senator Allen underscored the importance of higher education, civic engagement and vigorous debate as pathways to opportunity for young Alabamians and emphasized that the scholarship aims to support students who display the character and drive that Charlie Kirk exemplified.

“Charlie Kirk was an American patriot whose passion for faith and freedom inspired a generation,” Allen said. “He dedicated his life to helping young Americans rediscover that faith in God, liberty and hard work is what makes our nation great.”

Priority of consideration for the scholarship is to full-time entering freshman or current undergraduate students from Tuscaloosa County who exhibit leadership, strong moral character, civic engagement or public service as demonstrated by their involvement in on- and off-campus extracurricular activities and who demonstrate financial need as determined by federal aid guidelines. An essay is required for applicant consideration.

“Alabama holds the values of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution very dear, and The University of Alabama has a proud tradition of encouraging civil, intellectual and spirited political debate,” Allen continued. “It’s an honor to help a student do that in Charlie’s name.”

Senator Allen said he hopes the scholarship will serve as both a tribute to Charlie Kirk’s legacy and an inspiration to future leaders.

“By God’s grace, Charlie will never be forgotten, and through this scholarship, his life’s work will continue through the students who rise up to lead with the same moral courage, conviction and love of God and country that defined his life,” Allen said.

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee

A friendly Iron Bowl rivalry has once again turned into a major win for Alabama families in need.

According to the University of Alabama News Center, this year’s Beat Auburn Beat Hunger food drive raised a record 630,624 pounds of food, providing meals for West Alabamians facing food insecurity.

The results were announced Friday morning during a celebration at the West Alabama Food Bank, where organizers and community members gathered to recognize the students, faculty, staff, alumni, and local residents who rallied behind the cause over the past seven weeks.

Beat Auburn Beat Hunger, launched in 1994 by UA’s Center for Service and Leadership and the West Alabama Food Bank, turns the weeks leading up to the Iron Bowl into a friendly but focused competition with Auburn University and the Food Bank of East Alabama.

Each campus works to collect the most food and monetary donations to support its local food bank, and together the two schools have raised more than 8 million pounds of food since the rivalry began.

This year, that spirit of generosity was on full display.

Combined, the two universities brought in more than 1.2 million pounds of food, with Auburn’s Beat Bama Food Drive contributing 648,305 pounds during the friendly competition that ran from Oct. 3 to Nov. 20.

“We worked so hard this year and added so many new things and it really paid off,” said CC Hahn, president of Beat Auburn Beat Hunger.

Every can and every dollar collected by UA’s Beat Auburn Beat Hunger benefits the West Alabama Food Bank, which serves Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marion, Pickens, Sumter, and Tuscaloosa counties. In that region, food insecurity ranges from 15% to 31%, significantly higher than the national average of 12.7%, and the need remains high year-round.

Statewide, the challenge is sobering: one in six Alabamians — including one in five children — struggles with food insecurity, according to Feeding America data cited in the article.

While Alabama’s 27-20 Iron Bowl victory over Auburn grabbed the sports headlines, many on both sides of the rivalry are celebrating a different kind of win. Thanks to the dedication of students, volunteers, and supporters at both universities, food banks in West Alabama and East Alabama now have hundreds of thousands of additional pounds of food to share with families who need it most.

In a season built around gratitude, the Beat Auburn Beat Hunger and Beat Bama Food Drive campaigns show how a hard-fought football rivalry can help feed neighbors, strengthen communities, and remind Alabamians that the most important victories are often measured in meals, not points on the board.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences has set the standard for educating and training countless health care professionals who have improved health care across the state’s rural areas.

CCHS Rural Programs’ history started 30 years ago with the creation of the Rural Medical Scholars Program, a five-year medical education program exclusively for rural Alabama students who want to become physicians and practice in rural communities.

Dr. Drake Lavender, associate professor in the department of family, internal and rural medicine, has a unique perspective on the program’s evolution. While he now serves as director of CCHS Rural Programs, Lavender was one of its first graduates.

“I learned about the Rural Medical Scholars Program as a junior at UA and it aligned perfectly with my goals to practice in rural Alabama,” recalls Lavender. “It allowed me to be part of a cohort of students with similar backgrounds and career goals who all matriculated to the UAB School of Medicine while I did. This was incredibly valuable going through medical school together with a study and support group.”

Dr. Drake Lavender

Lavender was one of eight in the first class of Rural Medical Scholars, with seven choosing primary care specialties and five entering practices in rural Alabama.

“I’m incredibly proud to have been a part of the first class of this program,” said Lavender. “RMSP is now entering its 30th year and has stood the test of time in producing physicians for rural Alabama. Over the entire span of the program, more than 70% of the graduates practice primary care and over 50% of the graduates enter practice in rural Alabama.”

The Rural Health Leaders Pipeline has expanded over the years to provide education and training to not only college students but also high school students with a passion for providing health care to rural communities. Aside from primary care specialties, Rural Programs launched the Rural Dental Scholars Program in 2023 to provide a pathway for those interested in dentistry.

“The framework of what we do is fairly easy to replicate with appropriate legislative, financial and institutional support,” said Lavender. “Many rural medical education programs around the country have contacted or visited us and used what they learned to build or enhance their own programs.

“We are constantly doing self-evaluations and thoughtfully modifying in response to the needs of our students and the needs of rural Alabama. There is such great need in our state, and we feel that we are part of the solution to the workforce and access to care in our rural communities.”

Lavender estimates more than 1,000 have participated in the Rural Health Leaders Pipeline with more than 800 of those in the high school outreach programs. The Rural Medical Scholars Program has produced 56 physicians who are currently practicing in rural Alabama.

“Graduates of our programs have logged 762 physician-years of practice,” said Lavender. “If you consider the economic impact of one primary care physician on their rural community is $1.5 million per year of practice, then Rural Medical Scholars has provided more than $1.1 billion of economic impact to rural Alabama.

“This does not factor in the impact that those physicians have on individual patients and their health conditions. Those impacts are impossible to quantify.”

When asked how Rural Programs has helped shape rural health care in the state, Lavender’s response is simple but powerful.

“The people in our program — faculty, staff and students — are rural Alabamians working hard to improve the health of our fellow rural Alabamians,” said Lavender. “Our graduates are out there doing the work and serving their communities. We are trying to identify, recruit, nurture and encourage the next generation of rural Alabama doctors and dentists.

“We are proud of the work that these programs have done over the past 30 years, but we know that there is so much more to do.”

Courtesy of The University of Alabama.

The University of Alabama’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) entity, Yea Alabama, in collaboration with Bespoken Spirits, is launching Yea Alabama Bourbon line that celebrates the classic hallmarks of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

The launch features two expressions tailored for different palates: a 94-proof “The Standard” and a 114-proof “1831 Edition.”

Why “1831”? It’s a nod to the year the University of Alabama opened its doors to students, April 18, 1831.

The two new spirits are coming soon to ABC stores across the state as well as independent retailers.

According to the collective, The Standard — which is 94 proof — is “finished with heavily toasted American and French Oak, creating a small batch spirit with notes of baked fruit and sweet vanilla, and a harmony of depth, warmth and unique character.”

The 1831 Edition — which is a stronger 114 proof — is “finished with charred American Oak, delivering a bold, smooth spirit with notes of bold honey and savory dark chocolate, layered with warm spice and refined complexity.”

With bottles that were designed to capture the spirit of the Crimson Tide, the bourbons can be used to enjoy on gameday or simply serve as an item to enhance any fan’s collection.

Yea Alabama describes itself as the Official Fan Experience of Alabama Athletics, created to provide name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities for Crimson Tide student-athletes.

It has been active rolling out fan products and membership updates, now including a $5 “Rookie” and $25 “Veteran” tier.

Yea Alabama Bourbon is not affiliated with the University of Alabama or Alabama Athletics. Must be 21 years or older to purchase. This product is not available to ship to Alabama and select other states.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.

At The University of Alabama, Anna Grace Baker has distinguished herself as both a nursing student and a Crimsonette. Her days are long, filled with clinical rotations, classes, and hours of dance practice, yet she moves through them with focus and purpose. Balancing academics, athletics, and leadership, she has embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow, preparing herself for life after college while leaving her own light on campus.

A heart shaped by service

Service runs deep in Anna Grace Baker’s family. Her father served as assistant fire chief for 15 years, and both of her brothers are firefighters–one a paramedic at Pelham Fire Department, the other at the Clanton Fire Department. Growing up in a household defined by courage, care and selflessness, she witnessed firsthand what it means to step up when others need help the most.

“Seeing them take care of others on their worst day was something I loved,” Baker says. “Their hearts for service inspire me to keep pushing through school to become just like them.”

Those early lessons in empathy and responsibility shaped not only her career choice but also the way she approaches life. Baker carries that sense of duty into every classroom, clinical rotation and community engagement. Her family legacy fuels her ambition and anchors her purpose—a drive to make a difference wherever she goes, whether through nursing, mentoring or community service.

Twirl, travel and dedication

Even before college, Baker knew the meaning of hard work. In high school, she balanced classes at Jefferson State Community College while traveling across the country as a majorette, competing and performing at every turn.

“My pre-college days were so much fun and of course super busy,” Baker says. “Some of my best memories of my twirling career come from these competitions and spending these years with family.”

These experiences built resilience, discipline and the joy of striving toward goals with the support and inspiration of her loved ones. Today, as a Crimsonette at Alabama, she carries that same dedication and drive into every practice and performance.

Crimsonette life meets nursing

Being a Crimsonette has shaped Baker in ways that reach far beyond dance. Theintense schedule has taught her endurance, focus and leadership.

“During our band camp, we practice for over 12 hours with a lunch and dinner break allotted in that time frame,” Baker explains. “Once school begins, we practice every afternoon.”

Her dual roles often overlap in unexpected ways.

“The girls on our team will come to me for any scrapes, cuts or any medical questions, and I think it is so cool that I get to be that person for them.” She sees the connection clearly: “As a Crimsonette, we are always giving back to the community and bringing light to those who need it,” Baker says. “As a nurse, we get to be the light for a family who is walking through a dark time.”

UA shaping her future

Between nursing clinicals and dance practice, Baker has mastered the art of time management and prioritization. She carefully plans each day to stay balanced—a skill she says has transformed her college experience.

The Capstone College of Nursing currently holds a 100% NCLEX pass rate, reflecting the program’s rigor and commitment to student success.

Carrying the torch forward

After graduation, Anna Grace plans to return home to Clanton to be with her family and begin her career in cardiac nursing, following the preparation she received at the Capstone College of Nursing. She also hopes to keep the Crimsonette spirit alive by coaching baton.

“I am excited to see what the next chapter holds for me, but it is hard to say goodbye to this one,” Baker says.

With her heart for service, fierce determination and passion for helping others, Anna Grace Baker is poised to leave a lasting mark—on her community, her patients and the next generation of Crimsonettes.

Courtesy of Soul Grown Alabama

A former adjunct professor wants to argue in court that she was wrongly fired from both the University of Alabama and Auburn University for comments she made after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Candice Hale, who worked for UA’s Department of Gender and Race Studies, is suing the university claiming her First Amendment rights were violated.

Hale was also an Auburn University professor and is suing them as well for the same reason.

“I do not mourn oppressors,” Hale wrote on Facebook the day after Kirk was killed. “I do not show them empathy. I don’t give a damn about evil racist, fascist, misogynist, homophobic, transphobic, xenophobic, mediocre white men who claim to be Christian individuals and then do everything Christ would not do on Earth.”

“I will not mourn the wicked,” the post continues. “We are getting closer and closer to the real assignment.”

Hale’s attorney, Kira Fonteneau, believes she has a case against the schools because they are government institutions that fired Hale over participating in her right to free speech.

“We believe the evidence will show that that is a violation of the First Amendment,” Fonteneau argued, “and that’s why we filed our lawsuit.”

Hale recently defended herself during an interview with Birmingham’s WVTM News 13.

“If Charlie Kirk’s voice can be heard,” she said “and the whole world can hear the disparaging things he has to say, then the world should be able to hear what Auburn University and what the University of Alabama did to me.”

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee.

A Tuscaloosa florist will soon bring a touch of Alabama to one of the most famous holiday celebrations in the country.

Tammy West, owner and creative director of Glow Floral Event Design, has been selected to assist in decorating the White House for Christmas 2025 — a once-in-a-lifetime honor for her and her assistant, Lacey Labaj.

West, who has spent more than 30 years in the floral and event design industry, said the news of their selection came after submitting an application that showcased their portfolio, experience, and passion for Christmas decorating.

“We submitted everything and then waited about two months to hear back,” she told Yellowhammer News. “We were approved pending the background check, and then just a few days ago, we got the email — we’re in.”

The decorating team will spend a week in Washington leading up to the White House Christmas Party on December 1. West and Labaj extended their travel plans to stay for the event. “I have no idea exactly what we’ll be working on,” West said. “But I’m sure we’ll be covered in glitter the whole time.”

Originally from Birmingham, West moved to Tuscaloosa a decade ago when her husband joined the University of Alabama as a physician. Since then, Glow Floral has become a fixture in the community, working with UA, local organizations, and brides across the state.

“Oh my gosh, it’s just… I love Alabama,” West said. “To be able to say we’re from Tuscaloosa and represent our state in this way — that makes it even more special. We want everyone to know where we’re from.”

To make sure of that, West and her team are having special sweatshirts made with a Christmas wreath and the words “White House Christmas 2025” featuring the Glow logo in the center.

For West, this opportunity is more than a professional milestone. It’s personal.

“I started my career decorating for Christmas as a visual merchandiser at Macy’s and Rich’s,” she said. “To now be going to the White House… it’s like coming full circle. This is the pinnacle of Christmas decorating.”

She expects to work in a designated section, possibly decorating a tree or themed space. “I would imagine there are over 100 trees,” she said. “We’ll probably be assigned a section and get inspiration for what it’s supposed to look like. Then we just start decorating.”

West launched Glow Floral out of her home during the COVID-19 pandemic, and within a year, it had grown into a full-service floral and event design business in downtown Tuscaloosa. The studio specializes in elegant weddings, corporate events, university functions, and daily deliveries. It has worked with clients connected to the Masters Tournament, the Medical College of Georgia, and celebrity figures including Oprah Winfrey.

Her assistant, Lacey Labaj, graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in hospitality. She began at Glow as an intern and, four years later, continues to share her creativity as a design assistant.

West credits community support and hard work for Glow’s success. “It’s a very physically demanding job,” she said. “You can’t do it if you don’t love it. It’s not the money that drives you — it’s the passion. That’s what makes it special.”

West stated she was humbled and excited to be selected to participate in decorating the White House. “This is such a cool thing to do,” West said.

“It’s just not something that you get to experience in a lifetime. To be chosen to do what we love, during one of our favorite seasons, it’s like coming full circle. This is the pinnacle of Christmas decorating.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band will represent the state on one of the nation’s biggest stages in 2026.

The band has been invited to perform in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking a milestone year for the iconic holiday event. The band received the exciting news on October 7 and shared their excitement on Facebook.

The Million Dollar Band was selected from a competitive national field as one of only 10 marching bands to perform. The 2026 appearance will be the group’s second time marching in the parade.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a staple of holiday celebrations since 1924, drawing millions of spectators in person and on television. The annual parade is known for its massive balloons, elaborate floats, celebrity performances and holiday cheer.

“We are thrilled to have the Million Dollar Band to join in the celebration of the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2026,” said Sara Flores, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Associate Producer.

“The streets of New York City will undoubtedly pulse with energy and excitement brought by the University of Alabama’s phenomenal marching band as they make their way down the Parade route.”

“The University of Alabama Million Dollar Band is deeply honored to be selected to perform in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. To return to one of America’s most iconic holiday traditions is a privilege, and our students are thrilled to represent our university and our state,” said Dr. Ken Ozzello, University of Alabama Director of Bands.

The Million Dollar Band was chosen from more than 100 applicants. Each selected band will receive a $10,000 grant from Macy’s to support their fundraising and preparation for the New York City performance.

The 2026 parade will mark the 100th march of a holiday tradition that has spanned generations. The parade has only been canceled three times — during World War II in 1942, 1943 and 1944 — when materials were redirected to support the war effort.

More details about the 2026 centennial parade can be found at macys.com/parade.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become one of America’s most recognized holiday celebrations, featuring signature giant balloons, floats, marching bands, dance groups, and Santa Claus to mark the official start of the holiday season.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The Alabama Crimson Tide surprisingly found themselves at the center of the college football universe this past weekend when it was announced that College GameDay would be in town for their rematch game against the Vanderbilt Commodores after last year’s shocking loss.

With the impressive start for Vanderbilt that led to them being ranked, a game that used to feel like a glorified cupcake now all of the sudden had a big-game feel to it. When the announcement of the guest picker was named to be comedian Theo Von — who has a close relationship with Commodores QB Diego Pavia — some were upset.

After the fact though, despite his rooting for Vanderbilt, it sounds like Von absolutely loved his experience in Tuscaloosa and had nothing but extremely positive things to say about the University of Alabama:

https://x.com/KirkHerbstreit/status/1975332112447209664

“Alabama, it is amazing,” Von said when asked about preferential treatment shown to the SEC. “We were upstairs looking out over the campus…just the attire when you’re pulling up on campus and you see people walking in their. This is their Saturday best to a T. That was one of the most picturesque things I’ve ever been a part of to be honest with you.

“It was the most welcoming…it was exceptional, just the treatment, it was all perfect…they’re protecting something there that means something to them, and they show up and you feel that. I felt like a visitor, and I felt like the most welcomed visitor that could be there.”

WIRED named conservative activist and commentator CJ Pearson to its 2025 list of “22 Very Online Upstarts Changing the Face of Politics” this week.

The annual feature highlights young influencers, creators, and insiders who are reshaping political communication in the digital era.

Pearson, 23, attended the University of Alabama until his junior year before focusing full-time on politics, media and being a conservative influencer. He has built a massive online following and gained national attention over the past decade as one of the country’s youngest conservative commentators.

According to WIRED, Pearson has become “one of the most important people in digital MAGAworld.”

The magazine highlighted that he helped organize a TikTok-sponsored party during inauguration weekend that featured rising figures on the right and that he is now building his own political-influencer marketing company to support Republican candidates and causes.

Pearson currently serves as co-chair of the Republican National Committee’s Youth Advisory Council and has appeared on outlets including Fox News, PragerU, and many others across the globe.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CJ Pearson (@thecjpearson)

Recently, Pearson went viral sharing his views about his friend Charlie Kirk and accusations of “racism” made against him.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CJ Pearson (@thecjpearson)

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

America was rocked on Wednesday by the political assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.

As the country processed the shocking tragedy, fraternities at the University of Alabama put up signs with messages of ‘Rest In Peace’ as well as large American flags honoring the 31 year old who is survived by a wife and two young children.

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A post shared by College | Party | Roll Tide (@onebuzzbama)

On Wednesday night, there was a candlelit vigil on campus at UA’s iconic Denny Chimes tower.

Back in 2021, Kirk visited Alabama’s campus as part of his Exposing Critical Racism Tour, where he spoke about COVID-19 mandates as well as Critical Race Theory.

Kirk’s death has sparked a nationwide conversation about political violence, and the hope would certainly be that things get under control during some truly scary times for the nation both in the present and in the future.

The Nick Saban Legacy Awards were held in Birmingham Monday, honoring coaching greats David Cutcliffe and the late Pat Dye.

Established in 2022 by the Quarterbacking Children’s Health Foundation as a national award to honor and recognize the lifetime achievement of a college coach and his contributions to the game of football, the Nick Saban Legacy Award is named after the legendary football coach, most recently at the University of Alabama.

This year’s presentations were made at an event at the Red Mountain Theatre in Birmingham, hosted by Lauren Sisler and Rick Neuheisel.

Watch Nick Saban, David Cutcliffe and Pat Dye Jr., who accepted the award on behalf of his father, in this video.

Past recipients of the Nick Saban Legacy Award include Frank Beamer (2024), the late Bobby Bowden (2024), Bill Snyder (2023), the late Vince Dooley (2023), Steve Spurrier (2022) and the late Eddie Robinson (2022).

Courtesy of Alabama News Center

At the University of Alabama, greek life is as iconic as college football. One viral account on social media has made a lucrative side job from helping perspective students with the intimidating rush process.

Kyle Hall, known on Instagram as @alabama_fraternity_consulting, works with students who plan to rush that semester, offering them guidance, advice, and insight into Alabama’s expansive Greek system.

Hall primarily helps prospective rushees from out of state, counseling them on the do’s and don’ts of rushing a fraternity at the Capstone. His goal is to demystify the process for those unfamiliar with the culture, particularly students who lack personal connections or family ties to Greek life.

Hall explained what his business model is and what exactly he does during an appearance on Yellowhammer’s Longshore and McKnight show.

“Well, basically what I’m doing is for the for mostly the out-of-state student who has very few days, very few nights to rush whatever out of the 36 fraternities. They they find me, and I basically do a one-on-one profile with those young men, find out who they are, what they’re like, what they did in high school, what they want to do in college, and then, based on everything they tell me, I take out of those 36 fraternities, I’ll pick five of them, because I have a pretty strong knowledge of all of them,” Hall said.

“And I say, here are the five that you need to focus on when you go in for your two days, say, orientation. Here’s what you do, here’s how you do it, here’s the methodology towards it, and and that’s where we go from there.”

Hall revealed that he is now also working with students from Ole Miss, Auburn, Texas, and SMU as well.

Mostly, he works with out-of-state students, however he has also begun working with in-state students too, especially those who do not have alumni parents.

Clearly, whatever he is doing is working well. Hall has amassed over 10,000 followers on Instagram and his account seems to continue growing day by day.

The University of Alabama has increased its support for military members through the UA Online Military Tuition Grant. Previously available only to undergraduate students, the grant now includes active-duty graduate students. The tuition grant helps with tuition costs not covered by military tuition assistance. It can cover up to six credit hours per semester and as many as 18 credit hours per academic year, up to the maximum amount allowed by a student’s service branch. With this financial assistance, tuition for a UA Online program can be nearly free for military service members, excluding books and other fees.

The expanded grant eligibility takes effect in Fall 2025 and is available to eligible service members.

“As the daughter of a career Marine, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound sacrifices our military service members make for our country,” said Amanda Ingram, executive director of online and continuing education for UA’s Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education. “This expansion is an investment that reflects our deep gratitude and commitment to those who serve.”

Since the grant’s launch in 2022, UA Online has assisted nearly 350 service members and covered more than $200,000 in out-of-pocket college costs.

“UA Online is uniquely positioned to assist active-duty military service members in pursuing their degrees,” Ingram said. “With UA Online’s flexible and asynchronous course delivery, military students can complete coursework alongside their busy schedules and deployments.”

The University is a gold-level Military Friendly and Spouse Friendly Tier 1 Research Institute for 2025–2026. It is also an unlimited Yellow Ribbon school. Additionally, U.S. Veterans magazine has again recognized UA as a top Veteran-Friendly school. These awards recognize the University’s dedicated efforts to address the needs of military members and their families.

Courtesy of the University of Alabama

7. After the deployment of Alabama Task Force 1, Alabama deployed a second group of rescue workers to Texas to assist in the aftermath of devastating floods that killed 131 people so far.

6. U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) expressed concerns about Chinese nationals owning American farmland, while data shows foreign entities, including Canada and the UK, hold significant land in Alabama, but China is our adversary.

5. Calls for transparency in the shooting of Jabari Peoples by Homewood police have intensified, with the mayor of Homewood calling for it to be released with demands for the release of bodycam footage ahead of independent autopsy findings.

4. Reports from SEC Media Days, originating with “McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning,” Nick Saban might return to coaching; Lane Kiffin added fuel to the speculation by noting Saban’s “addiction” to the game, despite his retirement.

3. Governor-elect Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) downplayed the significance of releasing Jeffrey Epstein’s files, stating the U.S. faces “a lot more problems” than that issue, and President Donald Trump agrees that it is time to move on.

2. MSNBC contributor and University of Alabama legal professor Joyce Vance stated that civilians might have a lawful right to self-defense against masked ICE agents, which is stupid and embarrassing for the school.

1. The Trump administration is challenging a federal order limiting ICE operations in Los Angeles, while securing a big win in their effort to reform the Department of Education, and seeking to continue a pause of billions of dollars.

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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

A dozen high school students from north Alabama participated in summer programs at the College of Community Health Sciences to learn about the need rural communities have for more doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals.

Through the Rural Health Scholars Program, Rural Dental Health Scholars Program, and Medical Opportunities and Outreach in Rural Education Scholars Program, all part of CCHS’s Rural Health Leaders Pipeline, the students spent five weeks on the UA campus taking college courses for credit, shadowing physicians and learning how to prepare to enter health professions education and training.

The Rural Health Leaders Pipeline was created to address the shortage of primary-care physicians in rural Alabama. The nationally recognized pipeline includes a sequence of programs from high school through medical school that recruits students from rural Alabama who are interested in healthcare careers and working as healthcare professionals in rural communities.

The Rural Health Scholars Program provides opportunities for rising high school seniors to pursue careers in medicine. Students take college courses, participate in seminars with practicing healthcare professionals, and visit healthcare facilities.

The Rural Dental Health Scholars Program is for students between their junior and senior years of high school who have an interest in practicing rural dentistry. Students take college courses, participate in community engagement projects, and seminars about health care topics, and visit healthcare facilities.

The Medical Opportunities and Outreach in Rural Education (MOORE) Scholars Program is for high school seniors who plan to enter college in the next academic year. Students take college courses, participate in seminars, shadow physicians and other healthcare professionals, and visit healthcare facilities.

Rural Health Scholars:

Lauren Barnett, Morgan County
Kendal Davis, Morgan County
Avery Hice, Cullman County
Andrew Hopper, Etowah County
Amari Long, Colbert County
Emily Lynn, Jackson County
Kendall Phillips, Jackson County
Marcy Strange, Etowah County
William Streetman, Marion County

Rural Dental Health Scholars:

Hudson Hutcheson, Franklin County
Jackquelyn Zepeda, Blount County

MOORE Scholars:

Omar Baltazar, DeKalb County

Courtesy of the University of Alabama

According to the new partnership, in a groundbreaking step toward redefining comprehensive care, DCH Health System and the University of Alabama have announced the launch of Supportive Care, a unique care model that delivers personalized, compassionate care to patients facing serious illness—starting with those battling cancer.

Housed in the Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center, the Supportive Care program is designed to help patients live longer, more comfortably, and with greater dignity by providing individualized support. “By focusing on pain management, and emotional and spiritual support, Supportive Care helps patients maintain quality of life while navigating complex symptom management,” said Mallary Myers, DCH senior vice president and chief operating officer.

The initial launch aims to provide 350 senior undergraduate nursing students with clinical experiences rooted in palliative care competency. The Supportive Care Clinic will be embedded into the existing oncology clinic framework and will provide additional support for patients, their families, and caregivers.

“By leveraging the resources of these two esteemed organizations, the Supportive Care Clinic offers a strategic blueprint for growing the nursing workforce in oncology and beyond, while prioritizing improved patient outcomes,” said Dr. Kristi Acker, CCN associate professor and Oncology and Palliative certified Nurse Practitioner.

Researchers will study the outcomes of this integrated approach to care, with the goal of eventually expanding Supportive Care to all patients—not just those with cancer.

Sam Bailey Track and Field Stadium at the University of Alabama is home to several world-class student-athletes. UA’s Adapted Athletics para track and field program plans to add to that reputation and forge a legacy of its own.

UA’s program joins eight other collegiate para track and field squads in the United States at schools such as Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, and San Diego State.

“There are a few schools that have had this for a while, but there has been a lot of growth with new programs in the past three to four years,” said Evan Williams, UA para track and field head coach.

The program is in its second season. The team competed in five meets last season and competes in eight this season, including hosting a meet for the first time. It has grown from four student-athletes to eight.

This year’s roster consists of Alex Brown, wheelchair track racer; Dani Kanas, thrower; Zachary Carter, wheelchair track racer and thrower; Carson Fox, sprinter and thrower; Eric Francis, thrower; Spencer Kimbro, wheelchair track racer; Talan Smith, sprinter, and Parthasarathi Venkatram, wheelchair track racer.

The team is coached by Williams, Throwers Coach Nadia Jones, and Sprinters Coach Jimmy Dickson.

The student-athletes compete in the same events as their nondisabled peers, such as the 100-, 200-, 400-, 800- and 1,500-meter races. They also participate in the long jump, shot put, javelin, and discus throwing. It just looks a little different.

“Equipment is obviously the main difference. There’s also a huge difference with classifications,” Williams said. “In nondisabled track and field, everyone just runs against other people doing the same race. In para track and field, each person has a classification based on their disability and function. Then, even if they compete in the same heat as someone else, their times or marks are only compared to those in the same classification.”

On your mark

UA’s team is putting in the work to showcase its talents and encourage other student-athletes.

Kanas, the only woman on the team and a thrower, is an original member of the team. She feels this is the start of something special for adapted track and field.

“When being one of the first athletes in the new program, it feels like we’re helping start something new in para track and field,” she said. “Even though universities like San Diego State and Michigan have had their programs for a couple of years before us, it still feels like we are contributing to getting para track and field to the collegiate level.”

Francis is a graduate student on the wheelchair basketball team. The creation of the para track and field program is another athletic outlet for him.

“It feels amazing to be a pioneering athlete of this sport at Alabama,” he said. “I still play basketball as my main sport. I just saw track as another opportunity to play a sport at this amazing place.”

Brown, a freshman, mirrors the excitement of helping get the program off the ground.

“I think it’s both a tremendous honor and responsibility to be one of the first athletes in this program,” said Brown, a track racer who hopes to set personal records in the 100-, 200- and 400-meter races this season.

“It’s a privilege to wear the Script A across my chest every time I compete. I want my performances to be worthy of that.”

Get set

Throwers Coach Jones is a physical therapist and former track and field athlete at the University of Alabama in Huntsville who has coached at the high school level, too. Coaching at the collegiate level with Adapted Athletics, Jones sees what is possible for the program and the student-athletes.

“The student-athletes have taught me a lot about hard work, determination and resilience. I am seriously blessed to be able to work with them in the coaching arena and in the training room. The other coaches made me feel like family since my first day,” she said.

“It’s the intangibles and the opportunities at Adapted Athletics that made me want to be a part of the program. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else coaching track and field.”

The things that make UA’s Adapted Athletics program stand out are not just attracting coaches and staff but student-athletes, too.

“Many of the athletes found out about our program last year. We connected and followed them in their senior year and then welcomed them in their freshman year,” Jones said. “Talan Smith competed in track and field at his high school, and I learned from him that there is already a large population of para-student-athletes competing for their high schools.

“He is extremely passionate about growing para track and field in the college arena. Listening to him talk always amps me up.”

Track and field can often seem like an individual sport. But these student-athletes are a team, and they want to see the program thrive.

“The highlight of my season so far has been watching our team grow closer together throughout the season. We started as strangers, but now we are truly a team,” Brown said. “I hope that we become the example for how collegiate para track and field programs around the country schedule and compete as we grow the sport collegiately across the nation.”

Fox said, “I hope that we can continue to grow and recruit more student-athletes and give more people the opportunity to compete at the next level past high school.”

Setting goals and setting the bar

Goals for the coaching staff include shaping the para track and field student-athletes into competitors beyond UA.

Paralympic hopefuls include Kanas, javelin, and shotput; Kimbro, 100- and 400-meter; and Smith, 100-, 200-meter, and long jump. The trio recently qualified for the USA Track and Field Olympic and Paralympic National Championships.

The team has even worked with the UA College of Engineering on projects to develop training equipment specifically for these student-athletes.

“One of my favorite things they have done is engineering the pull-up bar for the athletes to be able to safely do pull-ups on their own,” Jones said. “I also love the adjustments to the Concept 2 SkiERG training tool, which has made it more accessible to all the athletes in the arena.”

Engineering faculty and students built the para track and field program a portable shotput ring with attachments to anchor the throwing chair down.

“It’s really cool what these students are capable of creating. I hope that one day we can create more tools for throwing practice that will allow the student-athletes to practice on their own,” Jones said.

“This would mean lighter and sturdier equipment with return processes. It would afford them the same opportunities that a nondisabled throwing athlete has as far as throwing when and where they want to.”

Pushing forward

Williams believes similar para track and field programs are on the rise.

“A big goal of our program is to establish more intercollegiate competition and hopefully find a governing body that can help us progress the sport on this level. I would love to have a college nationals meet for our student-athletes to compete for their universities,” Jones said.

“We’ve been making a stronger push toward para intercollegiate competitions. This year we have gotten other colleges to be more open to this. We hope that sometime in the future, each program will put on its own college meet. This year there have already been more than last year,” she said.

Check out the Adapted Athletics website, Instagram and Facebook to learn more about its sports and student-athletes.

Courtesy of the University of Alabama.

The 29th president of the University of Alabama, Dr. Stuart R. Bell, made major headlines a few months back when he announced he would be stepping down from his post in July and bringing to an end a decade-long tenure at the post.

With July approaching and the end of Bell’s time as the head of The Capstone, everyone is being sure to show their respects to the legendary president.

Count Alabama athletics director Greg Byrne in that camp, who presented Bell today with a very special gift.

Byrne gave Bell an Alabama football jersey signed by him along with Kalen DeBoer, Nate Oats, and more, presenting the soon-to-be former president with the token of appreciation in person and getting an epic picture:

Dropped off a small token of our appreciation to President Bell today.

He has been a great leader for the @UofAlabama and will have an incredible lasting impact for The Capstone. #RollTide 🐘 pic.twitter.com/aq5C3sCy5Y

— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) June 20, 2025

Bell’s next move could be just about anything, but whatever he ends up doing, that No. 29 Bell jersey is going to be hanging on the wall at his home.

The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees today officially named Peter Mohler, PhD, former Interim President of Ohio State University, as the 30th President of the University of Alabama, following the announced retirement of longtime President Dr. Stuart R. Bell, who will step down this July after a decade of leadership.

Dr. Bell, who became the 29th president in 2015, has led the Capstone through a period of historic growth. During his tenure, enrollment soared past 40,800 students, record-setting student success metrics were achieved, and fundraising efforts — most notably the Rising Tide campaign — surpassed $1.5 billion. Campus infrastructure expanded significantly, and UA climbed in academic research rankings, earning and maintaining its R1 status.

The board’s recommendation was brought by Chancellor Sid Trant, who described Mohler as a “transformative leader” capable of guiding the university to even greater heights.

“His presidency was marked by steady values-driven leadership of a university with a $10 billion budget, as he oversaw the complexity of a large and, as you know, a successful NCAA Division 1 athletics program, he strengthened relationships with government and industry leaders and spearheaded major philanthropic efforts,” Trant said.

“During his presidency, he led 15 academic colleges, colleges and programs serving over 65,000 students, while advancing key initiatives in enrollment growth, academic excellence and campus safety, among others.”

Shortly after, Trant’s recommendation was motioned, seconded, and approved unanimously by a full vote of the Board.

The appointment, effective July 21, 2025, was met with enthusiasm by the trustees

UA System Board of Trustees Secretary Karen Brooks detailed the rigorous selection process, which privileged community input that clearly favored qualities exhibited by outgoing president Dr. Bell: leadership at a top research institution, commitment to student success, impeccable character, and capability in overseeing a major athletic program.

“Serving on this committee was a significant commitment, but I know we all agreed that the process yielded an outstanding and most exciting outcome. Thank you again to all who helped make this search such a successful one,” Brooks said.

Previously, Mohler served as Executive Vice President for Research, Innovation and Knowledge at Ohio State, where he led its research enterprise and acted as Chief Scientific Officer for the Wexner Medical Center. He also served as Acting President of Ohio State in 2023 during its executive transition.

A nationally recognized cardiovascular researcher with over 250 peer-reviewed publications — including in Nature, Cell, and Nature Medicine — Mohler has earned prestigious awards such as the Pew Scholar designation and an NIH Outstanding Investigator award. He holds a PhD from UNC–Chapel Hill and completed a fellowship with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute at Duke University.

“75 days till kick off,” Mohler began his first official remarks as UA President. “Roll Tide.”

Mohler expressed deep gratitude to the trustees, Chancellor Sid Trant, and the search committee for their careful consideration and trust. He also acknowledged outgoing President Stuart Bell for his leadership, praising Bell’s accomplishments and describing them as essential groundwork for continued success at UA.

He also reflected on the values instilled by his upbringing in Grand Junction, Colorado — loyalty, integrity, hard work, and community — and credited his wife, Nancy, and their three children, Eleanor, Caroline, and John, for their support. He noted Nancy’s particular excitement to return to the South, adding that she has missed sweet tea.

“To the faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters of the University of Alabama, I cannot wait to meet you, listen to you and learn from you. I’m excited by the talented leadership team in place here, and honored to join you in the work ahead together. Together, we have the opportunity to build upon a legacy of excellence and shape the next era of impact at UA,” President Mohler said.

“From my days in the lab, working to unlock the genetic basis of cardiac arrhythmia in children athletes, my time in the classroom to my leadership roles in higher education, the heart of my work has always been about one thing: bringing people together to create impact, building strong interdisciplinary teams with a common purpose and a deep focus on outcomes that matter is my true north. I believe deeply in partnering with faculty, staff and students, by locking arms together with shared vision and determination.”

“That’s when universities show their true power. What drew me here was not just University of Alabama’s impressive reputation for academic and athletic excellence as a student centered University,” he said.

“The University of Alabama is distinctly positioned to ascend as the nation’s premier public flagship university, the future at the capstone is incredibly bright, and I can’t wait to get started,” Mohler concluded.

“Thank you and Roll Tide.”

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.