USA: A Brief History | About the University of South Alabama
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The University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL 36688
Ph: (251) 460-6101
USA: A Brief History
The University of South Alabama (USA) was founded in 1963 without a single building
to call its own. Approaching 60 years and many buildings later, USA is a vibrant university
that continues to serve as a catalyst for transformational change that impacts our
state, the Gulf Coast region and the world.
USA’s story began in the early 1960s, when Mobile’s civic leaders saw the need to
improve access to higher education in southwest Alabama. Realizing the region had
outgrown the small extension program that operated out of a building downtown, they
formulated plans for a four-year, degree-granting institution. On May 3, 1963, a bill
creating a new, independent university successfully passed the Alabama Legislature,
and USA was born.
Classes began in June 1964 at a new, $1 million building in west Mobile with an initial
enrollment of 276. The extent of the pent-up demand for education became obvious when
the first fall semester began. Enrollment leaped to 928 — and it continues to grow.
Today, USA enrolls more than 13,500 students annually and has awarded more than 90,000
degrees. Its alumni are leaders in business, industry, healthcare, education and the
arts.
The first campus building is now named the Frederick Palmer Whiddon Administration
Building, after USA’s first president. Whiddon had a vision that established the University,
and he remained at its helm until retiring in 1998. His successor, longtime faculty
member and administrator V. Gordon Moulton, oversaw a new era of growth into the 21st
Century. Dr. Tony G. Waldrop, selected in 2014 as the University’s third president,
continued the USA tradition of visionary leadership focused on discovery, health and
learning.
As new programs attracted more students, the University’s footprint and facilities
expanded. Almost from the moment USA accepted its first students, leaders began ambitiously
working toward establishing a medical school. The Whiddon College of Medicine charter
class began in 1973, and USA’s focus on health education was later complemented by
the College of Nursing and the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions.
Today, USA provides a high-quality education in business, the liberal arts, education,
engineering, computing, the sciences and healthcare. South’s 1,200-acre campus has
been transformed over the past decade with new facilities and resources. It offers
more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs through its 11 colleges
and schools. On the east side of Mobile Bay, USA’s Baldwin County campuses provide
Eastern Shore residents with convenient access to healthcare and educational programs.
USA is a comprehensive research institution where faculty have created an environment
that supports curiosity and discovery. Its researchers are problem-solvers and pioneers
in developing new technologies and promoting bold ideas to create targeted solutions
for today’s complex world.
USA Health – through Children’s & Women’s Hospital, University Hospital, Mitchell
Cancer Institute, Academic Physician practices, Health Care Authority practices and
the Whiddon College of Medicine – provides care across our region and, along with
the College of Nursing and Covey College of Allied Health Professions, is an extraordinary
training ground for future physicians and healthcare professionals.
A charter member of the Sun Belt Conference, USA fields 17 Division I sports teams,
and is routinely recognized for excellence in both athletics and academics. Today,
USA is the proud home to Hancock Whitney Stadium, which hosts all Jaguars home football
games and other events. The University of South Alabama continues upward and onward
as the Flagship of the Gulf Coast.
USA Timeline
▼ 1960s
Date
Event
May 3, 1963
USA founded by an act of the Alabama Legislature.
October 1963
First meeting of the USA Board of Trustees; Dr. Frederick P. Whiddon named president.
April 1964
The University moved from 154 St. Louis Street to its present location in west Mobile.
June 1964
First classes began; initial enrollment totaled 276 students.
October 1964
Gov. George C. Wallace dedicates the University of South Alabama campus.
April 1965
The jaguar was adopted as the University's mascot.
October 1965
Ground-breaking for Alpha Dorms, the University's first residence hall complex.
June 1967
Eighty-eight baccalaureate degrees were conferred at the first commencement.
December 1968
The University was admitted membership in the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools (SACS).
May 1969
The University acquired the 327-acre Brookley Conference Center.
August 1969
A resolution of the Alabama Legislature supported establishment of a medical school
under the auspices of the University of South Alabama.
▼ 1970s
Date
Event
November 1970
Mobile General Hospital was transferred to the University.
May 1971
Dr. Robert M. Bucher named first dean of the College of Medicine.
January 1973
The charter class of 25 students entered the College of Medicine.
April 1975
Mobile General Hospital was renamed University of South Alabama Medical Center.
October 1976
The University became a charter member of the Sun Belt Athletic Conference.
September 1978
The University's first Ph.D. program —in Basic Medical Sciences— was initiated.
▼ 1980s
Date
Event
January 1983
The USA Children's and Women's Hospital was established.
August 1984
The University of South Alabama Baldwin County branch was established.
August 1987
The former Providence Hospital was acquired by the University to house programs of
the colleges of Allied Health Professions, Medicine, and Nursing.
▼ 1990s
Date
Event
June 1990
The University acquired Doctors Hospital and Knollwood Park Hospital.
October 1997
Dedication of the Frederick Palmer Whiddon Administration Building.
July 1998
Dr. Frederick Whiddon retires as USA's only president in its 35-year history.
July 1998
V. Gordon Moulton named University President.
November 1998
Dedication of the John W. Laidlaw Performing Arts Center.
May 1999
Naming of the Mitchell College of Business, recognizing endowments of faculty chairs
and scholarships by the Mitchell family of Mobile.
▼ 2000s
Date
Event
October 2001
Dedication of the USA Children's Park, a 16-acre park at USA Children's and Women's
Hospital displaying bronze sculptures celebrating children and families.
December 2001
Refurbishment of Alumni Hall completed following more than $40,000 in contributions
from the Toulmin family and the USA Alumni Association.
May 2002
Establishment of the USA Cancer Research Institute, later re-named the Mitchell Cancer
Institute.
June 2002
Creation of the University Research and Technology Park Corporation.
December 2002
The University awarded it 50,000th degree at Fall Commencement.
March 2003
Dedication of the 53,000-square-foot addition to the University Library.
October 2003
Dedication of the new 16-acre Intramural Athletics Complex and Field House.
December 2003
Dedication of the Mentor Graphics Corporation Building, the first building in the
USA Technology and Research Park.
September 2004
Dedication of the Larry D. Striplin III Basketball Practice Facility.
December 2005
Completion of a second building in the USA Technology and Research Park.
February 2005
Implementation of a new $6.2 million campus transportation system, Jag Tran.
April 2005
Groundbreaking ceremony held for USA's cancer institute, which was later named the
USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.
April 2005
Dedication of Stanky Field, following a $3.8 million renovation.
July 2005
USA and Infirmary Health System announce a strategic healthcare alliance to enhance
healthcare in the region and provide innovative cancer treatment and research through
the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.
March 2006
Launching of the University's first comprehensive fund-raising campaign.
March 2006
The USA Cancer Research Institute is renamed the Mitchell Cancer Institute following
a $22 million gift in support of the Institute from the Mitchell family of Mobile.
April 2006
Infirmary Health System assumes operation of former USA Knollwood Hospital as Infirmary
West at Knollwood.
September 2006
Dedication of Meisler Hall, an $8 million student services building named in honor
of the Meisler family of Mobile, who donated $2 million to endow the facility.
October 2006
Dedication of the $2.2 million Alfred and Lucile Delchamps Archaeology Building, which
serves as a public museum of ancient artifacts and a teaching and research center
as home of the USA Center for Archaeological Studies. The building was created in
part through the generosity of the Delchamps family of Mobile.
November 2006
A joint pharmacy program between USA and Auburn University was established, with plans
to admit the first class of students in fall 2007. Graduates of the pharmacy program
in Mobile receive a degree from the Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy
at the University of South Alabama.
March 2007
Dedication of the Joseph and Rebecca Mitchell Learning Resource Center at the Mitchell
College of Business, a $2.5 million facility that significantly improves the learning
environment for USA business students.
April 2007
The natural connections among Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health Professions were
acknowledged through a new cooperative administrative structure under the guidance
of the first Vice President for Health Sciences, Dr. Ron Franks.
April 2007
The University names its first vice president for health systems, Stan Hammack, who
will oversee the clinical operations of USA’s health system, including its hospitals
and physician practice.
April 2007
Began construction of the new $45 million Health Sciences Building, which will bring
the colleges of Allied Health Professions and Nursing back to USA’s main campus.
May 2007
Hired first Vice President for Research, Dr. Russ Lea, symbolizing USA’s ever-expanding
programs in research, outreach and scholarly activity.
August 2007
Opening of a privately funded student apartment complex, The Grove, which by fall
2008 housed 1,000 students.
September 2007
Celebrated the grand opening of the Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy
at the University of South Alabama and welcomed its inaugural class of students.
November 2007
USA students presented a petition to President Moulton in support of football and
marching band programs during half-time at a Jaguar Men’s Basketball game.
December 2007
USA Trustees approve NCAA-sanctioned football and marching band programs.
December 2007
The historic number of degrees awarded by the University topped 60,000.
February 2008
USA hired its first football coach, Joey Jones.
February 2008
Public groundbreaking held during Homecoming for USA Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.
March 2008
Plans for USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital expansion approved by USA Board of Trustees.
April 2008
Public groundbreaking ceremony held for new state-of-the-art, 116,000-square-foot
Student Recreation Center.
July 2008
USA officially begins new marching band program with announcement of band’s first
director, Ward Miller.
August 2008
USA unveils new athletic and marching band logo.
November 2008
Dedication of the new USA Mitchell Cancer Institute building, which represents a total
investment of more than $135 million, including $75 million in construction and equipment.
April 2009
Conclusion of the University's first comprehensive fund-raising campaign, which resulted
in more than $93.5 million for USA programs, faculty, students and construction.
September 2009
Launched inaugural season of USA’s football and marching band programs.
September 2009
Dedication of the Health Sciences Building, new home of the colleges of Allied Health
Professions and Nursing.
September 2009
Groundbreaking ceremony for Shelby Hall Engineering and Computing Sciences Building.
November 2009
Dedication of the Football Field House and practice fields.
▼ 2010s
Date
Event
January 2010
Dedication of Veterans Memorial Plaza, which is dedicated to the students, alumni,
faculty and staff who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
July 2010
Completion of the new USA Jaguar Marching Band drill tower and pavilion.
September 2010
First classes held in the new glass arts building, a 5,000-square-foot facility in
the Visual Arts complex.
September 2010
Dedication of the new state-of-the-art, 116,000-square-foot Student Recreation Center.
October 2010
Dedication of Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.
November 2010
Groundbreaking on USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital expansion.
November 2010
Opening of a new 20,000-square-foot dining hall near residence halls.
August 2011
Opening of Stokes Hall, a 330-bed residence hall that includes the
University’s first Faculty in Residence and incorporates the concept of
“Learning Communities."
September 9, 2012
Dedication of Shelby Hall, home of College of Engineering and School of Computing.
May 3, 2013
50th Anniversary of USA’s founding.
April 2, 2014
Dr. Tony G. Waldrop takes office as USA’s third president.
August 2014
Total enrollment surpasses 16,000 for the first time in University history; total
fall enrollment is 16,055.
December 2014
The J.L. Bedsole Foundation pledges $1 million to establish the J.L. Bedsole Foundation
Endowed Scholarship Fund.
December 2014
The Jaguar football team plays in its first post-season game, the Raycom Media Camellia
Bowl.
May 2015
Two spring commencement ceremonies are held to accommodate USA’s growing enrollment.
June 2015
Fanny and Bert Meisler create a $1 million endowment to enhance Jewish Studies.
June 2015
New doctoral program in computing announced; USA now offers 100 degree programs.
August 2015
The University's first Convocation welcomes freshmen and new students.
August 2015
Record enrollment of 16,462 students.
October 2015
Launch of the
Upward & Onward
$150 million fundraising campaign.
January 2016
Pathway USA
degree completion program with area community colleges announced.
March 2016
First university-wide branding campaign launched with “We Are South” tagline.
April 2016
USA Mitchell Cancer Institute breaks ground on new clinic in Fairhope.
July 2016
Doy Leale McCall Rare Book and Manuscript Library relocates to Marx Library on main
campus.
September 2016
Fall enrollment, ACT scores set new records.
October 2016
USA and Spring Hill College announce cross-registration enrollment options for students.
February 2017
Global USA
created to oversee international outreach and engagement.
March 2017
College of Education renamed to
College of Education and Professional Studies
.
April 2017
Upward & Onward campaign reaches $100 million milestone.
June 2017
Jaguar athletics wins third straight Sun Belt all-sports trophy.
July 2017
Mitchell Cancer Institute opens Kilborn Clinic in Fairhope.
February 2018
USA University Libraries celebrate 50 years
March 2018
Meisler family gifts $5 million for new Trauma Center
May 2018
Jaguar athletics wins Sun Belt Conference all-sports trophy for fourth straight year
July 2018
USA Health launches emergency air service partnership
August 2018
USA Medical Center renamed USA Health University Hospital
September 2018
Mapp family gifts $1 million to Children's & Women's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
October 2018
Pathway USA expands to Pensacola State College
October 2018
Mobile County commits $2.5 million to new football stadium
January 2019
University and bank officials announce the naming of Hancock Whitney Stadium; construction
to be complete by 2020.
March 2019
University approved to offer Ph.D. in business administration.
April 2019
College of Engineering celebrates 50 years.
June 2019
USA Health University Hospital earns The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval
for accreditation.
July 2019
South awarded $3.8 million from NASA and Department of Energy for ionic liquids research.
September 2019
College of Medicine awarded a $4.4 million federal grant to improve the health of
underserved areas and increase the number of primary care physicians.
November 2019
Women’s soccer wins sixth conference tournament title in seven years.
December 2019
University receives more than $87 million in external and contract funding in 2019,
a 43-percent increase from 2018.
▼ 2020s
Date
Event
January 2020
The MacQueen Alumni Center opens across from Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.
March 2020
South switches to remote learning due to COVID-19 pandemic.
June 2020
USA announces Start South dual enrollment program for high school students.
July 2020
USA Health announces plans for what would later be named the Mapp Family Campus in
Baldwin County.
September 2020
The Jags football team plays its first home game in Hancock Whitney Stadium.
October 2020
USA Health breaks ground on a freestanding emergency clinic at Old Shell and Hillcrest
roads.
November 2020
The University announces completion of its $150 million
Upward & Onward
campaign, exceeding its goal by $10.9 million by raising $160.9 million. More than
23,000 individuals, businesses and foundations donated to the campaign.
December 2020
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and Bert Meisler take part in ribbon-cutting ceremony for
the $20 million Fanny Meisler Level 1 Trauma Center at University Hospital.
January 2021
$20 million Fanny Meisler Trauma Center at USA Hospital opens. The 27,000 square foot
state-of-the-art facility is the region’s only level-1 trauma center. Bert Meisler
donates $5 million for the project.
February 2021
Dr. Tony Waldrop announces his retirement after serving as the University’s president
for seven years.
March 2021
South launches the School of Marine & Environmental Sciences.
September 2021
Drs. John & Sally Steadman pledge a $3.8 million gift to the College of Engineering.
October 2021
The University hosts the South Alabama Band Championship at Hancock Whitney Stadium.
More than 20 high schools and 2,300 student musicians from across the region participate
in the inaugural event.
November 2021
The USA Board of Trustees announce Jo Bonner as University president. He becomes just
the 4th president in the University’s 58-year history.
March 2022
USA Health opens a free-standing Emergency Department in West Mobile.
May 2022
Dr. Andrea (Andi) Kent named USA Executive Vice President & Provost.
June 2022
: USA Board of Trustees approves a resolution naming the Frederick P. Whiddon College
of Medicine, honoring the University’s first president; a new Whiddon College of Medicine
building will be constructed.
September 2022
South inaugurates Josiah R. Bonner as University’s 4th President.
October 2022
The Multicultural Leadership Center celebrates its grand opening.
November 2022
USA Health opens the Mapp Family Campus Medical Office Building in Baldwin County.
December 2022
Jaguar football team completes its first 10-win season and 3rd bowl invitation.
May 2023
The University begins a year-long celebration of its 60 th Anniversary. USA’s Frederick
P. Whiddon College of Medicine and the College of Nursing both celebrate 50 th anniversaries
in 2023.
May 2023
Longtime USA supporter Abraham “Abe” Mitchell pledges $20 million for a new performing
arts building.
June 2023
Pole vaulter Kyle Rademeyer claims a national championship at the 2023 Track & Field
Championships in Austin, Texas. The junior cleared a height of 18-feet-8.25 inches
to win the title.
August 2023
South’s first-year enrollment increases by 19 percent, making the Class of 2027 one
of the largest in the University’s history.
September 2023
The USA Foundation donates more than a quarter mile of property on Dauphin Island’s
Aloe Bay. It will be used as a “living laboratory” for marine science education and
research.
September 2023
The University announces that fundraising has begun for a new 24,000 square-foot home
for the Jaguar Marching Band. The proposed facility is expected to cost $10 million
and will feature a lighted outdoor practice field as well as a rehearsal studio, dressing
rooms and a music library.
October 2023
Providence Hospital joins USA Health. The 349-bed facility, along with eight clinics
and six family practices, is renamed USA Health Providence and brings more than 1,700
physicians, associates and providers into the USA Health family.
October 2023
The Jaguar women’s soccer team defeats Arkansas State 3-1 completing an undefeated
regular season for the first time in program history. The Jags’ finished the regular
season 8-0-2.
December 2023
The University holds a groundbreaking ceremony for a new $200 million Frederick P.
Whiddon College of Medicine building. The 250,000 square-foot facility will allow
the University to expand class size from 80 to more than 100 students.
January 2024
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey takes part in a dedication ceremony for new Pediatric Emergency
Center at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. The center is more than double the size of
the former emergency department at 19,000 square feet and features more than 30 treatment
areas.
April 2024
School of Computing receives National Designation for Cyber Security Research.
June 2024
South announces the creation of the Abraham A. Mitchell Endowed Deanship, the first
of its kind at the University, in the Mitchell College of Business. The deanship was
funded by a $2.5 million gift from Mitchell.
July 2024
South receives a $3 million grant from the State of Alabama to expand its weather
mesonet and now provides data from more than a third of the state.
September 2024
Mobile businessman Elliot Maisel donates $5 million for the new Frederick P. Whiddon
College of Medicine Building.
September 2024
USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital dedicates the first Safe Haven Baby Box in
Mobile. The box offers a compassionate and secure option for mothers in crisis who
are unable to care for their newborns. When an infant is placed inside a baby box,
an alarm alerts staff members at the hospital.
December 2024
USA Health cut the ribbon on the new Kelly Butler ALS Center, the only one of its
kind on the upper Gulf Coast, allowing patients to be treated by a multidisciplinary
team in one visit.
December 2024
South celebrates its 100,000
th
graduate at its fall commencement ceremony.
January 2025
South experiences a once-in-a-century snowfall with 7.5 inches falling in Mobile,
breaking a record set in 1895. Nearly 900 USA Health employees worked 51 straight
hours. Twenty-six “snow babies” were delivered. On campus, groundcrews put sand on
roads and walkways, dining services fed students and USA police worked around the
clock.
July 2025
USA Health became the first health system in Alabama to offer histotripsy, a groundbreaking,
non-invasive treatment for liver tumors that uses high-intensity sound waves to destroy
tumors without incisions, needles or lengthy recovery times. Histotripsy creates microscopic
bubbles that break down cancerous tissue while leaving healthy liver tissue intact,
usually requiring only one treatment. USA Health is among fewer than 100 systems nationwide
offering the technology.
August 2025
The University of South Alabama welcomes its largest freshman class ever, marking
the third consecutive year of enrollment growth. Total enrollment reached 14,285 students,
up from 14,003 the year before. South enrolled 2,137 new first-year students, who
had a record-tying average high school GPA of 3.75. Retention also continued to be
a bright spot, with record numbers of students returning for their third and fourth
years.
October 2025
Airbus and the University of South Alabama announce a partnership with plans for the
aerospace leader to establish a presence at USA’s Research and Technology Park. Airbus
plans to relocate its Mobile-based U.S. Engineering Center to campus, bringing engineers
into close collaboration with faculty and students.
October 2025
The American College of Surgeons verified the Fanny Meisler Trauma Center at USA Health
University Hospital as a Level I trauma center, making it the only ACS-verified trauma
center between Mobile and Birmingham, and one of two in the state. Verified trauma
centers must meet the essential criteria that ensure trauma care capability and the
highest level of institutional performance.
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About USA
USA: A Brief History
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The University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL 36688
Ph: (251) 460-6101
USA: A Brief History
The University of South Alabama (USA) was founded in 1963 without a single building
to call its own. Approaching 60 years and many buildings later, USA is a vibrant university
that continues to serve as a catalyst for transformational change that impacts our
state, the Gulf Coast region and the world.
USA’s story began in the early 1960s, when Mobile’s civic leaders saw the need to
improve access to higher education in southwest Alabama. Realizing the region had
outgrown the small extension program that operated out of a building downtown, they
formulated plans for a four-year, degree-granting institution. On May 3, 1963, a bill
creating a new, independent university successfully passed the Alabama Legislature,
and USA was born.
Classes began in June 1964 at a new, $1 million building in west Mobile with an initial
enrollment of 276. The extent of the pent-up demand for education became obvious when
the first fall semester began. Enrollment leaped to 928 — and it continues to grow.
Today, USA enrolls more than 13,500 students annually and has awarded more than 90,000
degrees. Its alumni are leaders in business, industry, healthcare, education and the
arts.
The first campus building is now named the Frederick Palmer Whiddon Administration
Building, after USA’s first president. Whiddon had a vision that established the University,
and he remained at its helm until retiring in 1998. His successor, longtime faculty
member and administrator V. Gordon Moulton, oversaw a new era of growth into the 21st
Century. Dr. Tony G. Waldrop, selected in 2014 as the University’s third president,
continued the USA tradition of visionary leadership focused on discovery, health and
learning.
As new programs attracted more students, the University’s footprint and facilities
expanded. Almost from the moment USA accepted its first students, leaders began ambitiously
working toward establishing a medical school. The Whiddon College of Medicine charter
class began in 1973, and USA’s focus on health education was later complemented by
the College of Nursing and the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions.
Today, USA provides a high-quality education in business, the liberal arts, education,
engineering, computing, the sciences and healthcare. South’s 1,200-acre campus has
been transformed over the past decade with new facilities and resources. It offers
more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs through its 11 colleges
and schools. On the east side of Mobile Bay, USA’s Baldwin County campuses provide
Eastern Shore residents with convenient access to healthcare and educational programs.
USA is a comprehensive research institution where faculty have created an environment
that supports curiosity and discovery. Its researchers are problem-solvers and pioneers
in developing new technologies and promoting bold ideas to create targeted solutions
for today’s complex world.
USA Health – through Children’s & Women’s Hospital, University Hospital, Mitchell
Cancer Institute, Academic Physician practices, Health Care Authority practices and
the Whiddon College of Medicine – provides care across our region and, along with
the College of Nursing and Covey College of Allied Health Professions, is an extraordinary
training ground for future physicians and healthcare professionals.
A charter member of the Sun Belt Conference, USA fields 17 Division I sports teams,
and is routinely recognized for excellence in both athletics and academics. Today,
USA is the proud home to Hancock Whitney Stadium, which hosts all Jaguars home football
games and other events. The University of South Alabama continues upward and onward
as the Flagship of the Gulf Coast.
USA Timeline
▼ 1960s
Date
Event
May 3, 1963
USA founded by an act of the Alabama Legislature.
October 1963
First meeting of the USA Board of Trustees; Dr. Frederick P. Whiddon named president.
April 1964
The University moved from 154 St. Louis Street to its present location in west Mobile.
June 1964
First classes began; initial enrollment totaled 276 students.
October 1964
Gov. George C. Wallace dedicates the University of South Alabama campus.
April 1965
The jaguar was adopted as the University's mascot.
October 1965
Ground-breaking for Alpha Dorms, the University's first residence hall complex.
June 1967
Eighty-eight baccalaureate degrees were conferred at the first commencement.
December 1968
The University was admitted membership in the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools (SACS).
May 1969
The University acquired the 327-acre Brookley Conference Center.
August 1969
A resolution of the Alabama Legislature supported establishment of a medical school
under the auspices of the University of South Alabama.
▼ 1970s
Date
Event
November 1970
Mobile General Hospital was transferred to the University.
May 1971
Dr. Robert M. Bucher named first dean of the College of Medicine.
January 1973
The charter class of 25 students entered the College of Medicine.
April 1975
Mobile General Hospital was renamed University of South Alabama Medical Center.
October 1976
The University became a charter member of the Sun Belt Athletic Conference.
September 1978
The University's first Ph.D. program —in Basic Medical Sciences— was initiated.
▼ 1980s
Date
Event
January 1983
The USA Children's and Women's Hospital was established.
August 1984
The University of South Alabama Baldwin County branch was established.
August 1987
The former Providence Hospital was acquired by the University to house programs of
the colleges of Allied Health Professions, Medicine, and Nursing.
▼ 1990s
Date
Event
June 1990
The University acquired Doctors Hospital and Knollwood Park Hospital.
October 1997
Dedication of the Frederick Palmer Whiddon Administration Building.
July 1998
Dr. Frederick Whiddon retires as USA's only president in its 35-year history.
July 1998
V. Gordon Moulton named University President.
November 1998
Dedication of the John W. Laidlaw Performing Arts Center.
May 1999
Naming of the Mitchell College of Business, recognizing endowments of faculty chairs
and scholarships by the Mitchell family of Mobile.
▼ 2000s
Date
Event
October 2001
Dedication of the USA Children's Park, a 16-acre park at USA Children's and Women's
Hospital displaying bronze sculptures celebrating children and families.
December 2001
Refurbishment of Alumni Hall completed following more than $40,000 in contributions
from the Toulmin family and the USA Alumni Association.
May 2002
Establishment of the USA Cancer Research Institute, later re-named the Mitchell Cancer
Institute.
June 2002
Creation of the University Research and Technology Park Corporation.
December 2002
The University awarded it 50,000th degree at Fall Commencement.
March 2003
Dedication of the 53,000-square-foot addition to the University Library.
October 2003
Dedication of the new 16-acre Intramural Athletics Complex and Field House.
December 2003
Dedication of the Mentor Graphics Corporation Building, the first building in the
USA Technology and Research Park.
September 2004
Dedication of the Larry D. Striplin III Basketball Practice Facility.
December 2005
Completion of a second building in the USA Technology and Research Park.
February 2005
Implementation of a new $6.2 million campus transportation system, Jag Tran.
April 2005
Groundbreaking ceremony held for USA's cancer institute, which was later named the
USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.
April 2005
Dedication of Stanky Field, following a $3.8 million renovation.
July 2005
USA and Infirmary Health System announce a strategic healthcare alliance to enhance
healthcare in the region and provide innovative cancer treatment and research through
the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.
March 2006
Launching of the University's first comprehensive fund-raising campaign.
March 2006
The USA Cancer Research Institute is renamed the Mitchell Cancer Institute following
a $22 million gift in support of the Institute from the Mitchell family of Mobile.
April 2006
Infirmary Health System assumes operation of former USA Knollwood Hospital as Infirmary
West at Knollwood.
September 2006
Dedication of Meisler Hall, an $8 million student services building named in honor
of the Meisler family of Mobile, who donated $2 million to endow the facility.
October 2006
Dedication of the $2.2 million Alfred and Lucile Delchamps Archaeology Building, which
serves as a public museum of ancient artifacts and a teaching and research center
as home of the USA Center for Archaeological Studies. The building was created in
part through the generosity of the Delchamps family of Mobile.
November 2006
A joint pharmacy program between USA and Auburn University was established, with plans
to admit the first class of students in fall 2007. Graduates of the pharmacy program
in Mobile receive a degree from the Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy
at the University of South Alabama.
March 2007
Dedication of the Joseph and Rebecca Mitchell Learning Resource Center at the Mitchell
College of Business, a $2.5 million facility that significantly improves the learning
environment for USA business students.
April 2007
The natural connections among Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health Professions were
acknowledged through a new cooperative administrative structure under the guidance
of the first Vice President for Health Sciences, Dr. Ron Franks.
April 2007
The University names its first vice president for health systems, Stan Hammack, who
will oversee the clinical operations of USA’s health system, including its hospitals
and physician practice.
April 2007
Began construction of the new $45 million Health Sciences Building, which will bring
the colleges of Allied Health Professions and Nursing back to USA’s main campus.
May 2007
Hired first Vice President for Research, Dr. Russ Lea, symbolizing USA’s ever-expanding
programs in research, outreach and scholarly activity.
August 2007
Opening of a privately funded student apartment complex, The Grove, which by fall
2008 housed 1,000 students.
September 2007
Celebrated the grand opening of the Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy
at the University of South Alabama and welcomed its inaugural class of students.
November 2007
USA students presented a petition to President Moulton in support of football and
marching band programs during half-time at a Jaguar Men’s Basketball game.
December 2007
USA Trustees approve NCAA-sanctioned football and marching band programs.
December 2007
The historic number of degrees awarded by the University topped 60,000.
February 2008
USA hired its first football coach, Joey Jones.
February 2008
Public groundbreaking held during Homecoming for USA Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.
March 2008
Plans for USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital expansion approved by USA Board of Trustees.
April 2008
Public groundbreaking ceremony held for new state-of-the-art, 116,000-square-foot
Student Recreation Center.
July 2008
USA officially begins new marching band program with announcement of band’s first
director, Ward Miller.
August 2008
USA unveils new athletic and marching band logo.
November 2008
Dedication of the new USA Mitchell Cancer Institute building, which represents a total
investment of more than $135 million, including $75 million in construction and equipment.
April 2009
Conclusion of the University's first comprehensive fund-raising campaign, which resulted
in more than $93.5 million for USA programs, faculty, students and construction.
September 2009
Launched inaugural season of USA’s football and marching band programs.
September 2009
Dedication of the Health Sciences Building, new home of the colleges of Allied Health
Professions and Nursing.
September 2009
Groundbreaking ceremony for Shelby Hall Engineering and Computing Sciences Building.
November 2009
Dedication of the Football Field House and practice fields.
▼ 2010s
Date
Event
January 2010
Dedication of Veterans Memorial Plaza, which is dedicated to the students, alumni,
faculty and staff who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
July 2010
Completion of the new USA Jaguar Marching Band drill tower and pavilion.
September 2010
First classes held in the new glass arts building, a 5,000-square-foot facility in
the Visual Arts complex.
September 2010
Dedication of the new state-of-the-art, 116,000-square-foot Student Recreation Center.
October 2010
Dedication of Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.
November 2010
Groundbreaking on USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital expansion.
November 2010
Opening of a new 20,000-square-foot dining hall near residence halls.
August 2011
Opening of Stokes Hall, a 330-bed residence hall that includes the
University’s first Faculty in Residence and incorporates the concept of
“Learning Communities."
September 9, 2012
Dedication of Shelby Hall, home of College of Engineering and School of Computing.
May 3, 2013
50th Anniversary of USA’s founding.
April 2, 2014
Dr. Tony G. Waldrop takes office as USA’s third president.
August 2014
Total enrollment surpasses 16,000 for the first time in University history; total
fall enrollment is 16,055.
December 2014
The J.L. Bedsole Foundation pledges $1 million to establish the J.L. Bedsole Foundation
Endowed Scholarship Fund.
December 2014
The Jaguar football team plays in its first post-season game, the Raycom Media Camellia
Bowl.
May 2015
Two spring commencement ceremonies are held to accommodate USA’s growing enrollment.
June 2015
Fanny and Bert Meisler create a $1 million endowment to enhance Jewish Studies.
June 2015
New doctoral program in computing announced; USA now offers 100 degree programs.
August 2015
The University's first Convocation welcomes freshmen and new students.
August 2015
Record enrollment of 16,462 students.
October 2015
Launch of the
Upward & Onward
$150 million fundraising campaign.
January 2016
Pathway USA
degree completion program with area community colleges announced.
March 2016
First university-wide branding campaign launched with “We Are South” tagline.
April 2016
USA Mitchell Cancer Institute breaks ground on new clinic in Fairhope.
July 2016
Doy Leale McCall Rare Book and Manuscript Library relocates to Marx Library on main
campus.
September 2016
Fall enrollment, ACT scores set new records.
October 2016
USA and Spring Hill College announce cross-registration enrollment options for students.
February 2017
Global USA
created to oversee international outreach and engagement.
March 2017
College of Education renamed to
College of Education and Professional Studies
.
April 2017
Upward & Onward campaign reaches $100 million milestone.
June 2017
Jaguar athletics wins third straight Sun Belt all-sports trophy.
July 2017
Mitchell Cancer Institute opens Kilborn Clinic in Fairhope.
February 2018
USA University Libraries celebrate 50 years
March 2018
Meisler family gifts $5 million for new Trauma Center
May 2018
Jaguar athletics wins Sun Belt Conference all-sports trophy for fourth straight year
July 2018
USA Health launches emergency air service partnership
August 2018
USA Medical Center renamed USA Health University Hospital
September 2018
Mapp family gifts $1 million to Children's & Women's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
October 2018
Pathway USA expands to Pensacola State College
October 2018
Mobile County commits $2.5 million to new football stadium
January 2019
University and bank officials announce the naming of Hancock Whitney Stadium; construction
to be complete by 2020.
March 2019
University approved to offer Ph.D. in business administration.
April 2019
College of Engineering celebrates 50 years.
June 2019
USA Health University Hospital earns The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval
for accreditation.
July 2019
South awarded $3.8 million from NASA and Department of Energy for ionic liquids research.
September 2019
College of Medicine awarded a $4.4 million federal grant to improve the health of
underserved areas and increase the number of primary care physicians.
November 2019
Women’s soccer wins sixth conference tournament title in seven years.
December 2019
University receives more than $87 million in external and contract funding in 2019,
a 43-percent increase from 2018.
▼ 2020s
Date
Event
January 2020
The MacQueen Alumni Center opens across from Moulton Tower and Alumni Plaza.
March 2020
South switches to remote learning due to COVID-19 pandemic.
June 2020
USA announces Start South dual enrollment program for high school students.
July 2020
USA Health announces plans for what would later be named the Mapp Family Campus in
Baldwin County.
September 2020
The Jags football team plays its first home game in Hancock Whitney Stadium.
October 2020
USA Health breaks ground on a freestanding emergency clinic at Old Shell and Hillcrest
roads.
November 2020
The University announces completion of its $150 million
Upward & Onward
campaign, exceeding its goal by $10.9 million by raising $160.9 million. More than
23,000 individuals, businesses and foundations donated to the campaign.
December 2020
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and Bert Meisler take part in ribbon-cutting ceremony for
the $20 million Fanny Meisler Level 1 Trauma Center at University Hospital.
January 2021
$20 million Fanny Meisler Trauma Center at USA Hospital opens. The 27,000 square foot
state-of-the-art facility is the region’s only level-1 trauma center. Bert Meisler
donates $5 million for the project.
February 2021
Dr. Tony Waldrop announces his retirement after serving as the University’s president
for seven years.
March 2021
South launches the School of Marine & Environmental Sciences.
September 2021
Drs. John & Sally Steadman pledge a $3.8 million gift to the College of Engineering.
October 2021
The University hosts the South Alabama Band Championship at Hancock Whitney Stadium.
More than 20 high schools and 2,300 student musicians from across the region participate
in the inaugural event.
November 2021
The USA Board of Trustees announce Jo Bonner as University president. He becomes just
the 4th president in the University’s 58-year history.
March 2022
USA Health opens a free-standing Emergency Department in West Mobile.
May 2022
Dr. Andrea (Andi) Kent named USA Executive Vice President & Provost.
June 2022
: USA Board of Trustees approves a resolution naming the Frederick P. Whiddon College
of Medicine, honoring the University’s first president; a new Whiddon College of Medicine
building will be constructed.
September 2022
South inaugurates Josiah R. Bonner as University’s 4th President.
October 2022
The Multicultural Leadership Center celebrates its grand opening.
November 2022
USA Health opens the Mapp Family Campus Medical Office Building in Baldwin County.
December 2022
Jaguar football team completes its first 10-win season and 3rd bowl invitation.
May 2023
The University begins a year-long celebration of its 60 th Anniversary. USA’s Frederick
P. Whiddon College of Medicine and the College of Nursing both celebrate 50 th anniversaries
in 2023.
May 2023
Longtime USA supporter Abraham “Abe” Mitchell pledges $20 million for a new performing
arts building.
June 2023
Pole vaulter Kyle Rademeyer claims a national championship at the 2023 Track & Field
Championships in Austin, Texas. The junior cleared a height of 18-feet-8.25 inches
to win the title.
August 2023
South’s first-year enrollment increases by 19 percent, making the Class of 2027 one
of the largest in the University’s history.
September 2023
The USA Foundation donates more than a quarter mile of property on Dauphin Island’s
Aloe Bay. It will be used as a “living laboratory” for marine science education and
research.
September 2023
The University announces that fundraising has begun for a new 24,000 square-foot home
for the Jaguar Marching Band. The proposed facility is expected to cost $10 million
and will feature a lighted outdoor practice field as well as a rehearsal studio, dressing
rooms and a music library.
October 2023
Providence Hospital joins USA Health. The 349-bed facility, along with eight clinics
and six family practices, is renamed USA Health Providence and brings more than 1,700
physicians, associates and providers into the USA Health family.
October 2023
The Jaguar women’s soccer team defeats Arkansas State 3-1 completing an undefeated
regular season for the first time in program history. The Jags’ finished the regular
season 8-0-2.
December 2023
The University holds a groundbreaking ceremony for a new $200 million Frederick P.
Whiddon College of Medicine building. The 250,000 square-foot facility will allow
the University to expand class size from 80 to more than 100 students.
January 2024
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey takes part in a dedication ceremony for new Pediatric Emergency
Center at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. The center is more than double the size of
the former emergency department at 19,000 square feet and features more than 30 treatment
areas.
April 2024
School of Computing receives National Designation for Cyber Security Research.
June 2024
South announces the creation of the Abraham A. Mitchell Endowed Deanship, the first
of its kind at the University, in the Mitchell College of Business. The deanship was
funded by a $2.5 million gift from Mitchell.
July 2024
South receives a $3 million grant from the State of Alabama to expand its weather
mesonet and now provides data from more than a third of the state.
September 2024
Mobile businessman Elliot Maisel donates $5 million for the new Frederick P. Whiddon
College of Medicine Building.
September 2024
USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital dedicates the first Safe Haven Baby Box in
Mobile. The box offers a compassionate and secure option for mothers in crisis who
are unable to care for their newborns. When an infant is placed inside a baby box,
an alarm alerts staff members at the hospital.
December 2024
USA Health cut the ribbon on the new Kelly Butler ALS Center, the only one of its
kind on the upper Gulf Coast, allowing patients to be treated by a multidisciplinary
team in one visit.
December 2024
South celebrates its 100,000
th
graduate at its fall commencement ceremony.
January 2025
South experiences a once-in-a-century snowfall with 7.5 inches falling in Mobile,
breaking a record set in 1895. Nearly 900 USA Health employees worked 51 straight
hours. Twenty-six “snow babies” were delivered. On campus, groundcrews put sand on
roads and walkways, dining services fed students and USA police worked around the
clock.
July 2025
USA Health became the first health system in Alabama to offer histotripsy, a groundbreaking,
non-invasive treatment for liver tumors that uses high-intensity sound waves to destroy
tumors without incisions, needles or lengthy recovery times. Histotripsy creates microscopic
bubbles that break down cancerous tissue while leaving healthy liver tissue intact,
usually requiring only one treatment. USA Health is among fewer than 100 systems nationwide
offering the technology.
August 2025
The University of South Alabama welcomes its largest freshman class ever, marking
the third consecutive year of enrollment growth. Total enrollment reached 14,285 students,
up from 14,003 the year before. South enrolled 2,137 new first-year students, who
had a record-tying average high school GPA of 3.75. Retention also continued to be
a bright spot, with record numbers of students returning for their third and fourth
years.
October 2025
Airbus and the University of South Alabama announce a partnership with plans for the
aerospace leader to establish a presence at USA’s Research and Technology Park. Airbus
plans to relocate its Mobile-based U.S. Engineering Center to campus, bringing engineers
into close collaboration with faculty and students.
October 2025
The American College of Surgeons verified the Fanny Meisler Trauma Center at USA Health
University Hospital as a Level I trauma center, making it the only ACS-verified trauma
center between Mobile and Birmingham, and one of two in the state. Verified trauma
centers must meet the essential criteria that ensure trauma care capability and the
highest level of institutional performance.
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