UA Preview — Oct. 13-19, 2025

BEST BETS

Early College Offers New Freshmen Scholarships

The University of Alabama Early College will now offer two new freshman-year scholarship opportunities designed to reward Alabama high school students who participate in Early College and continue their academic journey as undergraduates at UA.

Why This Matters: UA Early College allows motivated high school students to take courses taught by University of Alabama faculty online or on campus, giving them the opportunity to earn college credit and experience UA academics before graduating high school.

For more information, contact Alex House at [email protected].

Million Dollar Band Selected for 100th Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in 2026

UA's Million Dollar Band was selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants as one of the 10 marching bands to participate in the 100th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade^® in 2026 and showcase the incredible talents of their musicians.

Why This Matters: Selected from more than 100 applicants, the bands chosen for the 100th Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will each receive a $10,000 grant from Macy's to kick-start fundraising efforts and help fund the march and prepare for their trip to New York City.

For more information, contact Alex House at [email protected].

Beat Auburn Beat Hunger Underway

The 32nd annual Beat Auburn Beat Hunger food drive is underway and runs through Nov. 20.

Why This Matters: The Beat Auburn Beat Hunger food drive raises awareness about food insecurity while collecting donations for the West Alabama Food Bank. According to Feeding America, one in six people, including one in five children, struggle with food insecurity in Alabama.

For more information, contact Bryant Welbourne at [email protected].

Newly Named Saban Crab Survived Meteorite

A team led by UA researchers discovered several ancient crab and shrimp fossils from central Alabama - including one they have named after legendary football coach Nick Saban.

Why This Matters: While the dinosaurs disappeared about 66 million years ago after a giant meteorite hit Earth, crabs like these survived and kept thriving. The Saban crab's relatives have been around for a long time, about 48-87 million years.

For more information, contact Rebecca Johnson at [email protected].

Rolleth Tide: UA Home to Shakespeare Association of America

The Shakespeare Association of America will move its headquarters to UA following the appointment of Dr. Tricia McElroy, associate professor in the department of English, as the new executive director of the nation's largest and most prominent professional organization devoted to the study of Shakespeare.

Why This Matters: Hosting the home offices of the SAA increases UA's visibility in early modern studies disciplines and offers UA students networking opportunities. McElroy is also working with the department of English to offer undergraduate internship opportunities with the SAA.

For more information, contact Jessica Nelson at [email protected].

Students Unearth Campus History

Following the discovery of chunks of stone dating back to before the Civil War during a construction project, students in the anthropology department have a rare opportunity to dig deep into hands-on learning as they excavate a small corner of campus.

Why This Matters: The ability to get a field school credential at home and as part of the regular curriculum opens up opportunities for students who might not be able to afford an international trip. And the students gain more than a line item on their resume from the experience.

For more information, contact Jessica Nelson at [email protected].

CURRENT COMMENT

Dr. John McDonald, associate professor and chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology, is available to discuss the importance of early screening and detection of breast cancer.

EVENTS

Movement in the Museum: Pilates

Oct. 14; Alabama Museum of Natural History

Trunk or Treat

Oct. 16; Holt Elementary School

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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.