Outgoing UA President Stuart Bell Gives Farewell Message As Tenure Comes To A Close

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Outgoing University of Alabama President Stuart R. Bell issued a final farewell message on Wednesday as his tenure in Tuscaloosa comes to a close.

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As Patch previously reported in January, Bell announced his plans to step down this summer following a decade leading the university.

Bell will be replaced by Peter Mohle, who previously served as executive vice president for research, innovation and knowledge at The Ohio State University and as chief scientific officer of OSU’s Wexner Medical Center.

Mohler also previously served as Ohio State's acting president in 2023.

Here's Bell's message to the University of Alabama community:

Dear Friends,‌

As I prepare to close my time as president of The University of Alabama, I reflect with gratitude on the journey Susan and I have shared with all of you over the past 10 years. Returning to the Capstone in 2015 was an exciting homecoming, and our lives have been enriched by all we have experienced and accomplished together over the 26 years we’ve been at UA.‌

Leading The University of Alabama has been the honor of my career. Throughout the years, I’ve been continually inspired by the incredible community that makes this place special and Where Legends Are Made.

Our students, faculty, staff and alumni bring remarkable commitment and determination, leaving an impact that extends far beyond our campus, shaping the future of Alabama and making a difference around the world.

Your contributions serve as a powerful reminder that our mission will continue — to educate, to discover and to serve.‌Over the past decade, we have welcomed record-breaking classes of bright, determined students who are making their mark on the world.

Our research enterprise has expanded — almost fourfold in sponsored awards — tackling challenges that matter deeply to Alabama and far beyond. The many new buildings and enhanced facilities have created an unmatched beautiful campus, enriching the student experience and supporting world-class discovery and innovation.

The incredibly generous fundraising successes through our Rising Tide capital campaign have set new records and opened new doors of opportunity for our students. And of course, we have celebrated countless moments of athletic success, as our student-athletes have embodied the pride and excellence of the Crimson Tide, a “championship school” across the board.‌Beyond the numbers and achievements, what I cherish most is the spirit of our people and of this place, a culture built on shared values, strong connections and faith in the potential of every member of our community. Susan and I have been blessed to always receive such a warm welcome from the University and its people, and though I may be stepping away from my role as president, I will always be proud to remain part of the Alabama family.‌

As I look ahead, I do so with great confidence. The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has appointed an outstanding leader in Dr. Peter J. Mohler, and I look forward to supporting a seamless transition as he begins his presidency next week.

Because of each of you, UA is stronger than ever, and I know the important work we have started together will continue to grow and thrive. Our students remain at the heart of everything we do, and their success will always be our greatest source of pride.‌

Thank you for the kindness, support and friendship you have shown me and my family during this incredible journey. It has been my honor to serve as your president and to call this place our home.‌

With deep thankfulness — and as always, ROLL TIDE!‌

- Stuart R. Bell

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