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The University of Alabama

DAVID-GRADYFounded as Alabama’s first public college, The University of Alabama (UA) has more than 36,000 students from around the world, and is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and service. As the state’s flagship higher education institution, UA is an academic community united in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Alabamians.

UA’s Division of Student Affairs is led by Vice President David Grady, whose tenure began in June 2015. As vice president of student affairs, Dr. Grady guides more than 200 full-time and 10 part-time college student educators, who serve in a myriad of functional areas, including the Blackburn Institute, parent programs, the Career Center, veteran and military affairs, and the Center for Sustainable Service & Volunteerism, to name a few.

Student affairs staff at UA seek to maximize each student’s learning experience. They aim to accomplish this task by providing experiences that advance: intellectual pursuits and lifelong learning; a community that cultivates inclusiveness, respect, integrity and responsibility; personal growth, development and leadership; interpersonal skills and relationships; opportunities for participation, contribution and a sense of belonging; and health, wellness, enjoyment and fulfillment.

Grady says, “Student affairs is part of a large team invested in student success, and I am proud that our many partners include parents and faculty. Collaboration with faculty enhances the learning opportunities in many of our programs. Parents, of course, play vital roles in their students’ success. … Working together, we will form a network of support behind every student at UA. There is nowhere like The University of Alabama. The energy, opportunities and sense of community on campus make the university a special place.”

The Division of Student Aff airs is committed to fostering student development, encouraging curiosity and exploration, and supporting students’ transition to, and graduation from, The University of Alabama. Grady asserts, “Our staff are ready to challenge, encourage and support [students] each step of the way,” and it is through these eff orts that The University of Alabama is one of this year’s Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs at Research Institutions.

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