For 48 hours, The University of Alabama (UA) transforms into a hub of philanthropy for its campus-wide annual giving campaign. With this year’s theme being “Bama in Bloom”, the College of Communication and Information Sciences (C&IS) set its sights on using this campaign to uplift a cornerstone of the College’s community: the C&IS Ambassadors. As the primary liaison between the college and the public, these student leaders represent the best of C&IS. Through donations made, the ambassadors are given more resources to further their development and continue doing their jobs to the best of their abilities.
The importance of this support is echoed by those who lead the program every day. Lexi McMahon, coordinator of recruitment and outreach, emphasizes that the generosity of donors provides a foundation for the program’s success. Beyond the financial impact, McMahon said Bama Blitz created a sense of confidence among ambassadors, especially newer members who are just beginning their involvement with the organization.
“We have created awareness across campus,” McMahon said. “For a new member just getting started in this organization, you feel a sense of pride and a sense of connection to it.”
She explained that hearing the campaign results and seeing the widespread support for C&IS helped students recognize that their work is making a meaningful difference, not only within the college, but across campus and beyond. Bama Blitz allows prospective students, alumni and supporters even outside of UA to better understand the impact and community the ambassadors help cultivate every year.
This sentiment is shared by the students who walk through the halls of Reese Phifer as representatives of the college. For Kinsey Williams, a current student leader, the community’s support is a powerful motivator.
One of my favorite things to tell prospective students on tours is that I can’t walk through one hallway without seeing five people I know. This engagement has helped make it even more true.
Kinsey Williams
Both in-house and outside support directly contribute to maintaining the close-knit, family-oriented culture that defines the Ambassadors program. These contributions help fund things such as retreats, meetings and student events while also helping ambassadors professionally represent the University through updated apparel and resources.
Williams also reflected on the broader role C&IS Ambassadors play within the college community. From leading personalized tours for prospective students to serving at Board of Visitors events, Hall of Fame inductions and college showcases, ambassadors strive to give back to the college that has shaped their experience.
“C&IS Ambassadors help students see what they have the potential to become in Reese Phifer and beyond,” Williams said. “We love the chance to give back to the college that has given so much to us.”
With the community surpassing its donor goals, the C&IS ambassadors are now better equipped to continue their work, proving that when the Crimson Tide family invests in its students, the returns are seen in every handshake, every tour and every future leader that joins the college.
Outside of the online digital campaign, C&IS also hosted a “front porch” fundraiser on the steps of Reese Phifer. An afternoon of fun, connection and popsicles brought together ambassadors and students while highlighting Bama Blitz.
One of the campaign’s most notable accomplishments was reaching the Dean Challenge goal of $500, a donor-forward initiative designed to encourage participation throughout the giving period. In addition to exceeding last year’s donor total, C&IS also secured the highest number of donors among all colleges.
Overall, the campaign generated $10,000 through 90 individual gifts, along with contributions from Bryant Bank and the C&IS Board of Visitors. Beyond fundraising success, the campaign also stood out for its digital engagement efforts. The exceptional social media presence throughout the campaign consistently shared thoughtful and creative content.
Ultimately, this year’s Bama Blitz showed the tight community being poured into at C&IS. The ambassador program will continue fostering connection, leadership and opportunity for the students who represent the college every day.
