By Betsy Compton, University of West Alabama

LIVINGSTON, Ala. — The University of West Alabama conferred honorary doctorates upon Rep. Artis J. “A.J.” McCampbell and Alabama Sen. Bobby D. Singleton during summer commencement exercises on August 14. Each received the Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, in recognition of distinguished public service, commitment to educational opportunity, and leadership on behalf of the people and communities of Alabama’s Black Belt.

McCampbell and Singleton were honored during separate commencement ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. 

UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch said the honors recognize two leaders who understand that the University’s work extends well beyond its campus, saying both have been strong advocates for UWA and its role as a regional university serving the educational, workforce, and community needs of West Alabama.

“Senator Singleton and Representative McCampbell recognize the important role a regional university plays in the lives of the people and communities it serves,” Fritch said. “They understand that our graduates become the teachers, healthcare professionals, business leaders, counselors, coaches, and public servants who strengthen communities across our region. Both have demonstrated confidence in UWA’s ability to serve the Black Belt and have advocated for investments that help us meet the needs of our students and the people we serve. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and their belief in the work of this University.”

Representative Artis J. “A.J.” McCampbell
A native of Greene County, McCampbell has represented Alabama House District 71 since 2006, following a career in public safety and community service. His public service has focused on education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and quality of life in Alabama’s rural communities.

Fritch remarked that McCampbell recognizes UWA as an important regional resource for expanding educational opportunity, preparing graduates for meaningful careers, and responding to the workforce and community needs of the Black Belt. His advocacy for investments in the University’s campus, academic programs, and workforce initiatives reflects his confidence in UWA’s ability to serve the region and its people.

“I am humbled and honored and thankful,” McCampbell said. “I do not take this recognition lightly and promise to do all I can to walk worthy of the designation. This university continues to be one of the shining stars of West Alabama that began educating young ladies in Livingston, Alabama, when they opened the doors in 1835 as Livingston Female Academy. I applaud the school’s leadership for a continued dedication to academic excellence and student development as the foundational pillars of this great institution.”

Senator Bobby D. Singleton
A native of Greensboro, Singleton began his legislative service in the Alabama House of Representatives before his election to the Alabama State Senate in 2005. He represents District 24 and serves as minority leader of the Senate.

Fritch shared that throughout Singleton’s career he has advocated for education, healthcare, economic development, infrastructure, and other priorities important to Alabama’s rural communities. His support for UWA reflects his belief in higher education as an investment in people and in the future of the region. He has advocated for investments in the University’s facilities, academic programs, and initiatives that strengthen UWA’s ability to serve students and communities throughout West Alabama.

“God has granted me the strength to be here today, for the work that I do in the Black Belt, in this region, in this state, and especially for this University, which I call the ‘jewel of the Black Belt,’” Singleton said. “The University of West Alabama gives so many opportunities to kids in an area that may not otherwise get that opportunity. I want to thank the University for what you do to in countless lives, for being that beacon of hope for families who otherwise would not see that hope.”

UWA’s summer commencement exercises recognized more than 700 summer graduates during two ceremonies on August 14, ranging from associate to doctoral degrees.

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Featured Image: Greene County native Artis McCampbell and Senator Bobby Singleton are holding their honorary doctorates (Cody Ingram)