University of Alabama Receives $35 Million Donation

News Summary

The University of Alabama has secured a $35 million donation from alumnus J. Frank Barefield Jr., leading to the renaming of its College of Arts and Sciences. This generous gift enables the college to enhance educational experiences, attract top talent, and support students in need. More than 9,000 students are currently enrolled in over 80 programs within the college, which is critical to the university’s academic framework. The donation underscores Barefield’s long-standing commitment to fostering educational excellence and making a significant impact on future generations.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama – The University of Alabama has announced a significant financial boost with a $35 million gift commitment from alumnus J. Frank Barefield Jr., leading to the renaming of its College of Arts and Sciences. The new official title will be the J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences, a change approved by the UA System Board of Trustees during their meeting on June 6. This renaming marks a notable recognition, as it makes the college one of only two at the University bearing the name of a donor.

The College of Arts and Sciences is a vital part of the university, currently enrolling over 9,000 students engaged in more than 80 different majors, minors, concentrations, and graduate programs. This college provides nearly half of all credit hours at the University of Alabama, showcasing its central role in the overall academic framework of the institution.

Barefield’s generous donation provides the college with a fully discretionary endowment, enabling college leadership to respond swiftly to opportunities, invest in innovative research, and attract top academic talent. The financial contribution will also assist students navigating unexpected hardships, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all students.

According to Dean Dr. Joseph P. Messina, the funds from Barefield’s generous donation will elevate the college’s standards of teaching and research further. The college’s faculty has already shown impressive achievements, generating $41.5 million in grants for significant research initiatives in 2024, with research funding having increased by 42% over the past five years.

With more than 55,000 alumni across 64 countries and all 50 states, the J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences plays a crucial role in fostering academic success and global engagement.

Background on J. Frank Barefield Jr.

J. Frank Barefield Jr. is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Alabama, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in finance. He also holds an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and is a Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst. Barefield serves as the owner and president of Abbey Residential, LLC, a multifamily real estate firm based in Birmingham, Alabama. Under his leadership, the firm manages a property portfolio valued at over $2.5 billion.

This latest $35 million commitment is not Barefield’s first act of philanthropy towards educational institutions. He has previously pledged $10 million to the University of Alabama at Birmingham for the naming of its department of criminal justice and its entrepreneurship program. Barefield’s consistent support reflects his dedication to fostering educational excellence and providing future generations with enhanced learning opportunities.

In addition to his commitment to education, Barefield aspires for his gift to help the University of Alabama draw and retain exceptional educators and students from across the globe. He has expressed a profound sense of humility and honor at having his name associated with the college, a testament to his long-standing engagement with the institution.

Looking Ahead

The establishment of the J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts and Sciences signals a promising future for the college and its constituents. The college is dedicated to pursuing excellence in teaching, research, and student support, ensuring that it continues to play a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded scholars and informed citizens for years to come.