Notable Alumni of the University of North Alabama

Introduction

The University of North Alabama (UNA), a public institution located in Florence, Alabama, boasts a rich history dating back to 1830. As the oldest university in the state, UNA has evolved from its origins as LaGrange College to a comprehensive regional university offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. Over the years, UNA has produced numerous accomplished individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. This article highlights some of the university's most notable alumni, showcasing their diverse achievements and lasting impact.

A Historical Overview of the University of North Alabama

Founded in 1830 as LaGrange College near Leighton, Alabama, the University of North Alabama holds the distinction of being the first state-chartered college in Alabama. The institution's early days were marked by its affiliation with the Methodist Episcopal Church, although its curriculum was designed to be non-denominational, focusing on literary and scientific pursuits.

In 1855, LaGrange College relocated to Florence, Alabama, and was reincorporated as Florence Wesleyan University. This move marked a significant transition for the institution, setting the stage for its future growth and development. Over the years, the university underwent several name changes, reflecting its evolving mission and scope. These included:

Florence Wesleyan College (1855-1872)
State Normal School of Florence (1872-1929)
Florence State Teacher's College (1929-1957)
Florence State College (1957-1967)
Florence State University (1967-1974)

Finally, in 1974, the institution adopted its current name, the University of North Alabama, solidifying its status as a comprehensive regional university.

Campus Evolution

UNA's campus, initially designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the sons of the architect of New York City's Central Park, features three antebellum structures listed in the National Historic Register: Wesleyan Hall, Rogers Hall, and Coby Hall. The university has expanded to include two campuses after purchasing J.W. Powell School in 2006. Notable buildings include the UNA Science and Engineering Technology Building (completed in 2015) and the Wendell W. Gunn University Commons (completed in 2014). Harrison Plaza, with its Italian limestone fountain, serves as the official entrance to the university.

Academic and Extracurricular Traditions

UNA offers over 60 bachelor's programs and seven graduate programs across four colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Nursing and Allied Health. The university also operates the Kilby Laboratory School, providing observation and instruction opportunities for UNA education students. Campus traditions include the Miss UNA Scholarship Pageant, pregame tailgating at Spirit Hill, the "Pride of Dixie" Marching Band, and Step Sing, an annual musical comedy fundraising event.

Notable Alumni: A Glimpse into Success

The University of North Alabama has a long and proud history of producing accomplished graduates who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Here are some of the university's most notable alumni:

Arts and Entertainment

George Lindsey: Renowned for his portrayal of Goober Pyle on The Andy Griffith Show and Mayberry R.F.D., as well as his appearances on Hee-Haw, Lindsey was a beloved actor and comedian.
Darryl Worley: A successful country music singer and songwriter, Worley has released multiple albums and achieved recognition in the country music scene.
Patterson Hood: As a singer-songwriter and co-founder of the band Drive-By Truckers, Hood has made a significant impact on the alternative country and Southern rock genres.
David Hood: A highly respected musician, David Hood is known for his bass guitar and trombone skills. He is a member of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and has worked with numerous renowned artists.
Clay Bennett: An American editorial cartoonist known for his liberal viewpoints, Bennett won the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning.
Thomas Sigismund Stribling: An American writer awarded the Pulitzer Prize for the Novel in 1933 for his novel The Store.
Michi Meko: An American multidisciplinary artist based in Atlanta, Georgia. He is the recipient of the Joan Mitchell Foundation Grant and the Atlanta Artadia Award as well as a finalist for the 2019 Hudgens Prize.

Politics and Public Service

Jeff Miller: Served as a U.S. Representative for Florida's 1st congressional district.
Robert Aderholt: Represents Alabama's 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Annette Taddeo: A Colombian-American politician and businesswoman who served as a member of the Florida Senate.
James Edward Moore: A United States Army four-star general who served as the United States High Commissioner of the Ryukyus after World War II.
Edward A. O'Neal: A Confederate officer during the American Civil War and the 26th Governor of Alabama.
Ronnie Flippo: Served seven terms as a United States Congressman from Alabama.
John Gregg: Served as a deputy from Texas to the Provisional Congress of the Confederate States from 1861 to 1862.
Miles C. Allgood: Served as a United States Representative from Alabama.
Edward B. Almon: A Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives who represented northwest Alabama's 8th congressional district.

Athletics

Janoris Jenkins: A former professional football cornerback, Jenkins played college football for the North Alabama Lions and Florida Gators. He had a successful NFL career, including a Pro Bowl selection.
Evan Oglesby: A former American football cornerback in the National Football League (NFL).
Charles McClain: A former American football wide receiver.

Military

Donald B. Thomas: Awarded the Bronz Star Medal with "V" device for Valor (Valor--repeated acts of bravery despite great personal risk) w/three oak leaf Clusters, The Air Medal with "V" device.
Stephen R.: Army Reserve.
Richard F.: Army. Airborne Ranger. Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit(two oak leaf clusters).
Christopher D.: Army. Airborne Ranger. Riverine with 9th Infantry Division. Twice awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in combat in Vietnam.

Science and Technology

Richard G. Smith: As director of NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center, Smith played a crucial role in the U.S. space program.

Other Notable Alumni

Lawrence Sullivan Ross: The 19th governor of Texas, a Confederate States Army general during the American Civil War, and the 4th president of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, now called Texas A&M University.
Thomas L. Maddin: An American physician. He treated African-American slaves in Alabama in the antebellum era.

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