The Blackburn Institute is built on the generosity of those who believe in its mission.
You may give online by following the link below to the UA Online Giving website. The page to which you are directed defaults to the institute’s unrestricted fund (Blackburn Institute Support Fund), but options for giving to more specific programs are available. Check out the Funds and Descriptions section to learn more about the various giving opportunities available to donors.
Funds and Descriptions
Fellows Programming
The Cheree Causey Blackburn Fellows Endowed Support Fund empowers ethical leaders by supporting the growth, collaboration, and lifetime commitment of Blackburn Fellows. Through leadership development, regional gatherings, and community engagement initiatives, this fund ensures Fellows are equipped to serve Alabama and the nation—creating a lasting impact through strategic action. Dr. Causey led the Blackburn Institute as its advisor from 2000-2006.
New Student Retreat
The D. Ray Pate Endowed Support Fund supports an annual retreat of the Blackburn Institute.
Networking and Opportunities
Give to the Blackburn Institute.
Gloria and John L. Blackburn Endowed Support Fund
The Gloria and John L. Blackburn Endowed Support Fund supports special programs in the Blackburn Institute at the discretion of the director of the institute, based on recommendations of members of the institute’s Advisory Board.
New Fellows Giving Campaign
Each year, students in the graduating class are encouraged to give in honor of their transition to Blackburn Fellows. The campaign allows graduating students to leave their mark on the Blackburn Institute and enables the continuation of programs that have been meaningful to them. Gifts from students also count toward the dues for the Recent Graduate Advisory Board member.
Graduating students may choose to donate in one of following ways:
- To pay with a credit card use the link below and include “New Fellows Giving Campaign” on the tribute line
- Send a check to The University of Alabama, Blackburn Institute, Box 870296, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 and write “New Fellows Giving Campaign” in the memo.
Annual and Lifetime Giving Circles
The Blackburn Institute depends on the generous support of Blackburn Society members, Advisory Board members, Fellows and non-affiliate donors to carry out its programming. Annual Giving Circles recognize financial support to the Blackburn Institute through individual and corporate donations from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025. Lifetime Giving Circles recognize financial support to the Blackburn Institute through individual and corporate donations since near the inception of the Institute from July 1, 1996 to June 30, 2025.