As faculty and staff, we each impact the students who like us choose to call UA home. No matter our role, our impact is profound when we unite, and our campus is transformed by our example.

Our student-centered research University has set the standard of excellence in education for students, our community, our state and far beyond since 1831. As UA’s faculty and staff, we are the guides and caretakers of the legacy.

You have the opportunity to make a meaningful and direct philanthropic impact on any area of campus that matters the most to you. A gift of any size demonstrates your pride in the Capstone. Together, we become a force strong enough to transform the world around us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I being asked to give?

We Are UA is your opportunity to support and advance the journey of our university. The success of We Are UA is based solely on participation, making it possible for every single employee to contribute, no matter the size of their gift.

How is this different from the United Way Campaign?

United Way is a community organization that assists in the monetary support of organizations benefiting our community and West Alabama. The We Are UA campaign is unique because all funds directly support UA programs. You may choose to support any area, department or fund. Your participation is an investment in The University of Alabama, much like your United Way gift demonstrates your support of the local community. We hope you will consider a gift to We Are UA in addition to your contribution to the United Way.

How can my gift make a difference?

Annual gifts provide necessary resources to help meet needs no other funding source has met. These programs and services help UA maintain excellence in many areas. A high level of internal support sends a strong message to community leaders, business owners, foundations, parents, students and prospective students that we believe in what we do and are willing to invest in the University’s mission.

Who gives to We Are UA?

All employees are invited to participate. Additionally, if you graduated from UA, your gift will be counted in alumni participation rates.

How much should I give?

Participation rates are how we measure our success. Regardless of the size of your gift, what is important is that you are involved at a level meaningful to you.

Where does my gift have the most impact?

Your own interests should be your guide. UA always accepts unrestricted gifts, providing flexibility to apply funds where they are most needed. Several benefit the entire University, such as those shown in the Unique Giving Opportunities to Consider list. Each college also has specific needs to support.

Is We Are UA separate from The Rising Tide Capital Campaign?

No, gifts to We Are UA will count as part of The Rising Tide Capital Campaign.

How do I make my gift?

You can make a gift to support the college, school or program of your choice through the payment option that works best for you.

• Payroll Deduction
  Establish a new payroll deduction here. To make changes to your existing payroll deduction, call: 205-348-5370.
• Online
  Make a one-time gift here.
• Phone
  Call the Office of Advancement Services (205-348-5370) to make a gift with your credit card. Please specify the designation of your gift, and indicate it is for the We Are UA faculty and staff campaign.
• Mail
  Mail your pledge card with a check (payable to The University of Alabama) to:
  The University of Alabama
  Office of Advancement Services
  Box 870101
  Tuscaloosa, AL 35487

Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes! Your gifts to The University of Alabama are tax-deductible to the extent of current IRS regulations.

Where can I designate my gift?

When you make a contribution, you decide where you want your gift to go. Whether you designate your gift to a college, department, program, scholarship or pre-established gift fund, 100% of your gift goes to support the area of your choice.

I have already made a gift this year. Does this count in the We Are UA Campaign?

Yes, all gifts made by employees from May 1, 2023 to present will be counted.

Are there any restrictions on faculty and staff giving?

You may designate your gift to your school, program, department or any area of the University you choose so long as it is not a fund over which you have spending control or which directly benefits you. If you are the signature authority on an endowed fund or the fund is defined as a current use fund for a specific purpose (such as a building fund or a scholarship fund), you may contribute to that fund. However, if you are the signature authority on an unrestricted current use account, you may not contribute to that fund.

What about a deferred gift?

Deferred gifts — such as gift annuities, charitable remainder trusts and life insurance policies — also count as faculty and staff contributions. For more information, please call the Office of Planned Giving at 205-348-0999.

How do I take advantage of a corporate matching program?

If your spouse works for a matching gift company, you could be eligible to double or even triple your gifts to We Are UA. Thousands of companies nationwide sponsor matching gift programs to encourage employees to make charitable contributions. Some companies may even match gifts made by retirees and/or spouses. For more information, please call the Office of Advancement Services at 205-348-5370.

Who can I contact for more information?

Each college, school or unit has volunteer representatives able to help answer your questions. You can also contact the Office of Annual Giving at 205-348-9316.