Graduate’s Alabama Success Story of Growth and Leadership   - University of Alabama News Skip to content Home » Graduate’s Alabama Success Story of Growth and Leadership Email Reggie Clifton exemplifies a true Alabama student success story, creating a bright future in his sweet home state. From the moment Clifton stepped on The University of Alabama campus, he was determined to become a leader and role model for others. Since then, he has served as a Culverhouse College of Business Ambassador, Capitol Scholar and member of the Student Government Association Belonging and Wellness Cabinet, all while proudly representing the University as a Bama Transfer Ambassador. While Clifton’s path to UA differed from many of his classmates, his transfer experience became a defining part of his time at the Capstone. He turned early challenges into opportunities to get connected on campus, ultimately becoming an advocate for transfer students and the broader UA community. Clifton transferred from Central Alabama Community College to UA in part because of the significant scholarships available to transfer students. As someone born and raised in Alabama, the opportunity to stay close to family and continue his education in his home state helped make the decision easy. “I’ve been able to gain so much pride and learn so much more about the state of Alabama and also the different cities within, like Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Mobile and just what makes these different cities great, by talking to different alumni and hearing their stories and experiences about them staying in state. Coming to The University of Alabama was the right choice for me.” The transition from a smaller community college to a large public university of more than 40,000 students was a big adjustment for Clifton. He found that getting involved with student organizations and reaching out to peers, professors and staff members when he was struggling helped him adjust. “It truly made the University feel small,” Clifton said. Clifton gives credit to various students and staff for supporting him through his time as a transfer student at UA, including Dre Vaden, program manager for Student Engagement Transfer Initiatives. He described her as a “cheerleader in our corner” providing guidance and support as students get acclimated to campus and pursue different leadership roles. “Reggie’s journey reflects the very best of what transfer students bring to The University of Alabama — resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to lifting others as they climb. His impact will be felt long after commencement, not only through the initiatives he helped build, but through the students who now see themselves reflected in his story,” Vaden said. During Honors Day 2026, Clifton was awarded the 2026 Outstanding Transfer Student Award, recognizing his campuswide achievements and his lasting legacy through initiatives such as the Transfer 2 Leadership Showcase and the development of a Transfer Guide. Clifton on his first day of classes at UA. Reflecting on his time at the Capstone beyond his journey as a transfer student, Clifton said the support and experiences from the Culverhouse College of Business community came to mind. From his classmates to the alumni and corporate relations department, development staff and the entire accounting department, Clifton says countless individuals genuinely invested in his success. “Culverhouse Ambassadors has shaped me into a better leader and truly made my time on campus special. When I think about my most memorable experiences on campus, a large majority of them tie back to ambassadors,” Clifton said. Through Culverhouse, Clifton had the opportunity to travel to New York City on an exploration trip marking both his first time flying and his first visit to the city. While there, he heard stories from UA alumni now building their careers in New York, an experience that introduced him to a whole new world he didn’t know was out there. The people you meet here, these are friendships and networks you’ll have for a lifetime. “It really just inspired me and showed that the possibilities are endless. It’s a big world out there and you can do whatever you put your mind to,” Clifton said. Following graduation, Clifton will spend the summer in Washington, D.C., before returning to UA to complete the Masters of Tax Accounting Program and begin studying for the Certified Public Accountant Exam. Clifton was selected as a Capitol Scholar , a program that places exceptional students from The University of Alabama System within the Alabama congressional delegation to gain a hands-on understanding of governmental affairs. This summer, Clifton is excited to work on Capitol Hill with Representative Mike Rogers before transitioning to an internship with Senator Katie Britt. Clifton champions the different organizations and communities on campus that he was part of for allowing him to step outside of his box and beyond his comfort zone. Meeting new people throughout his journey has helped Clifton build and grow relationships, among other skills. “It helps expand your network in a way that lasts. When we leave college, we have people we can call on through a career change or just to come back to campus and spend a game day weekend with. The people you meet here, these are friendships and networks you’ll have for a lifetime,” Clifton said. Professional opportunities have especially played a big role in Clifton’s development as a student, helping him learn how to navigate professional settings and engage confidently with donors and alumni. “When I step into the real world, I’ll already have those skills. I won’t be wondering what to do when I walk into the room. I’ll be ready,” Clifton said. Clifton traveled with fellow Culverhouse students to New York City for an immersion trip to meet UA alumni. After reflecting on his entire undergraduate experience, Clifton encourages students to simply go to class, learn and enjoy the time at UA that goes by so fast. “Make sure to take in every experience that you can. That’s why we’re here, to get an education, try new things and make the most of every moment during your time here. It goes by fast,” Clifton said. The Alabama pride shines through every connection Clifton has made on campus. While he transitions into graduate studies, Clifton looks toward a future in his home state where he remains committed to giving back to the welcoming community he transferred into. “That passion shows every time that you speak to alumni — I understand why people have such pride in this school, and now I, too, have that from my time here, and I can’t wait to come back and help other students succeed during their time here.” This website uses cookies to collect information to improve your browsing experience. Please review our Privacy Statement for more information.