Tuscaloosa, Alabama, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama has named its College of Engineering after Lee J. Styslinger Jr. following a significant $25 million gift from his wife, Catherine. This endowment will enhance educational programs and research capabilities, benefiting over 5,500 students. UA President Peter J. Mohler noted that this is the largest single donation in the college’s history, supporting innovation and new degree offerings in emerging fields like artificial intelligence. The change reflects a growing trend of naming colleges at UA after notable contributors.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama – The University of Alabama has officially named its College of Engineering in honor of Lee J. Styslinger Jr., following a transformative $25 million gift commitment from his wife, Catherine Styslinger. The UA System Board of Trustees approved the naming and the financial gift on October 17, underscoring the significant backing for the institution and its future endeavors.
The newly named Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering serves over 5,500 students across seven departments, offering a comprehensive suite of educational programs including 14 undergraduate and 16 graduate degree options. This renaming reflects a growing trend within the University of Alabama, as it is now the third college on campus to receive such an honor, joining the ranks of the Hugh F. Culverhouse College of Business and the J. Frank Barefield Jr. College of Arts & Sciences.
UA President Peter J. Mohler has expressed profound gratitude towards the Styslinger family, highlighting that the generous gift will significantly enhance the college’s ability to foster innovation, education, and research. The endowment is expected to provide discretionary resources that will facilitate improved research capabilities and help attract top-tier faculty members.
On the administrative side, Dean Dr. Clifford L. Henderson emphasized the flexibility the endowment will provide in responding to diverse opportunities, significantly enriching student experiences within the college environment.
Lee J. Styslinger Jr., who hailed from Birmingham and was born in 1933, initially set out to study mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama. However, he left his studies at the age of 19 to take over the family business, Alabama Truck Equipment Company, following the passing of his father. Under his leadership, the company evolved into Altec, Inc., a global leader in providing vital services for the electric utility, telecommunications, and tree care industries. Styslinger passed away in 2021 at the age of 88.
Catherine Styslinger believes her late husband would have been honored by having the college carry his name and hopes the donation will serve as an inspiration for future students. The Styslinger family’s philanthropic efforts also include establishing the Altec/Styslinger Foundation in 1997, which focuses on education and workforce development.
Additionally, Lee J. Styslinger Jr. contributed his expertise through leadership roles in various non-profit organizations including Highlands Day School, Children’s Harbor, Junior Achievement of Greater Birmingham, St. Vincent’s Hospital, and the American National Red Cross. According to Dean Henderson, this donation represents the largest single contribution in the college’s history and is poised to have a transformational impact for generations to come.
The significant financial backing will also support student activities and assist in the development of new degree programs in emerging fields, such as artificial intelligence. As stated by President Mohler, graduates from UA are expected to lead efforts addressing critical challenges in diverse sectors including energy, manufacturing, space, mobility, data, and artificial intelligence.
Key Features of the Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering
- Over 5,500 students enrolled
- 14 undergraduate programs offered
- 16 graduate programs available
- Largest single donation in college history: $25 million
- Supports programs in artificial intelligence and other emerging fields
FAQ
What is the new name of the University of Alabama College of Engineering?
The newly named Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering.
What amount did Catherine Styslinger commit as a gift for the college?
A $25 million gift commitment.
How many students are enrolled in the Lee J. Styslinger Jr. College of Engineering?
The college enrolls over 5,500 students across seven departments.
When did the UA System Board of Trustees approve the gift and the college’s renaming?
The approval occurred on October 17.
What types of programs does the College of Engineering offer?
The college offers 14 undergraduate and 16 graduate degree programs.
What will the donation support at the college?
The donation will support student activities and the creation of new degree programs in emerging fields like artificial intelligence.
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