TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama announced Monday that its Rising Tide 2.0 capital campaign has concluded with more than $2.1 billion in charitable commitments, making it the most successful higher education fundraising campaign in state history.
Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.
Organizers pointed out that the 10-year campaign, which launched publicly in September 2021, surpassed its previous fundraising goals of $1.5 billion in 2024 and $1.8 billion in 2025.
UA says more than 196,000 donors contributed over 1 million gifts during the campaign, resulting in 1,212 new scholarship endowments and 84 new endowments supporting faculty.
Donors committed nearly $425 million to endowed scholarships, $94 million to faculty support and more than $1 billion to student-focused programs and initiatives.
UA reported a 37% increase in endowed scholarship funds awarded and a 38% increase in students receiving endowed scholarships since 2016.
"The success of The Rising Tide 2.0 reflects the deep belief our alumni, friends and supporters have in the University of Alabama and in the promise of our students, faculty, staff and future," UA President Peter Mohler said.
Campaign organizers said it also generated more than $538 million in commitments toward campus facilities, supporting more than 800,000 square feet of new construction and renovations.
Major projects include Hewson Hall, the Catherine and Pettus Randall Welcome Center and the Smith Family Center for the Performing Arts, which is scheduled to open in 2027.
Two UA colleges were also renamed following major donations, including the J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences following a $35 million commitment and the Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering following a $25 million commitment.
The university said the campaign attracted more than 118,000 first-time donors, while 310 gifts totaled at least $1 million each.
UA also reported record fundraising in four consecutive years, averaging at least $225 million annually during that stretch.
"The number of students who will benefit from the philanthropy of our current benefactors over the generations to come can't be counted," UA Vice President for Advancement Bob Pierce said.
Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Tuscaloosa Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.