Culverhouse Leadership Program Named In Honor Of Late Business Alumnus

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has approved the naming of the Culverhouse College of Business’ signature student leadership and professional development initiative in recognition of a $5 million gift commitment from the family of the late Robert James “Jim” Kelly.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

The gift is part of an $8.5 million total commitment from Ginger Kelly, Jim Kelly’s wife, building on an initial $1.5 million gift made in 2022 — $1 million of which established the R. James Kelly Endowed Business LEAD Support Fund — as well as a $2 million estate gift.

UA says the R. James Kelly Leveraging Engagement to Advance Development program, or Kelly LEAD, is designed to prepare undergraduate students to lead with integrity, empathy, and strategic insight.

The program provides workshops, one-on-one mentoring and community engagement projects aimed at helping students build leadership and interpersonal skills that are highly sought after in the workforce.

“At Culverhouse, we believe that preparing students for the workforce goes far beyond the classroom,” said Kay Palan, dean of the Culverhouse College of Business. “The R. James Kelly LEAD program is one of our most impactful initiatives because it equips students with the skills, confidence, and mindset they need to thrive in professional environments.”

Jim Kelly, a two-time Culverhouse alumnus and former president of Family Dollar Stores, Inc., passed away in 2021.

“Jim believed deeply in the power of investing in people,” Ginger Kelly said. “Whether in the boardroom or in his charitable work, he was always ready to listen, mentor, and uplift those around him. He often said that when you grow and support others, success naturally follows. The R. James Kelly LEAD program reflects that same spirit, cultivating a culture where students are empowered to lead, learn, and become job-ready through meaningful relationships and personal growth. I know Jim would be proud to see his legacy carried forward in this way.”

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.