The University of Alabama received some major academic recognition recently – and it was a first for the Capstone.
The school has been recognized as a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Students and a Top Producing Institution of Fulbright U.S. Scholars. The double designation places UA in a select group of 12 other schools. It is the seventh time in nine years that the university has been awarded the student centered designation and the first time ever that it has received the faculty focused award.
“It is with immense pride that we celebrate The University of Alabama’s consistent designation as a Fulbright Top Producing Institution,” said UA President Stuart R. Bell. “This achievement underscores the dedication and excellence of our students and the remarkable contributions of our esteemed faculty and staff who are shaping UA’s global leaders of tomorrow.
“We are excited to announce that the university has also achieved its inaugural designation as a Top Producer of Fulbright Scholars, with six faculty members receiving Fulbright awards.”
The 14 UA students who received Fulbright awards were given one-year grants for independent study and research, and for English teaching assistant ships overseas. The highly competitive program selects approximately 1,500 award recipients from more than 11,000 applicants each year.
“UA’s recognition as a Top Producer of Fulbright Students for the seventh time in the last nine years is truly remarkable,” said Dr. Teresa Wise, associate provost of international education and global outreach. “It speaks to the quality of our students and to the dedication of our Fulbright advisors, Dr. Matt Feminella, Dr. Tori Jessen, and Ms. Megan Legerski.”
Wise touted the faculty’s first time Fulbright award as well.
“This year, UA is also being recognized as a Top Producer of Fulbright Scholars,” Wise said. “This is the first time that UA has earned this achievement. Our world-class faculty understand the value of connecting and working with colleagues and students overseas. They return to our campus re-energized and eager to share new knowledge, experiences and insights at UA.”
The Fulbright Program is an international academic exchange program with the goal of increasing mutual understanding and supporting friendly and peaceful relations between the people of the United States and other countries. The U.S. government oversees an extensive suite of fellowships and scholarships in partnership with more than 160 countries worldwide.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
