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Serving The University of Alabama since 1894.

The Crimson White

Serving The University of Alabama since 1894.

The Crimson White

Serving The University of Alabama since 1894.

The Crimson White

All content by Ava Morthland
The finale of "Dancing with the Stars" premiered on Tuesday.

Bringing home the mirrorball: DWTS season finale

Lorena Morris and Ava Morthland December 1, 2024

The “Dancing with the Stars” Season 33 finale aired live on Tuesday night, showcasing the five finalists and their partners as they danced for the last time. After nine weeks of competing, the Len...

The influence that religion has on politics

The influence that religion has on politics

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor October 23, 2024

The intersection of religion and politics has a long history in American government and can be dated back hundreds of years, a famous example being the 1802 letter from then-President Thomas Jefferson...

“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” began Monday and runs through Sunday at the Allen Bales Theatre.

UA Theatre and Dance puts on ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor October 16, 2024

The Department of Theatre and Dance performance of the musical “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” began Monday and runs through Sunday at the Allen Bales Theatre. Written by late author Chuck...

Informative to entertainment: The change in presidential debates

Informative to entertainment: The change in presidential debates

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor September 25, 2024

Presidential candidates John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon appeared on screen for the first ever televised presidential debate in 1960. The candidates stood with authority while debating their policies...

University Programs and UA Panhellenic Association co-hosted New Year, New Me event.

New Year, New Me encourages students to foster friendships

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor August 18, 2024

University Programs and UA Panhellenic Association partnered to host the New Year, New Me event Aug 12. The event, which was one of several as part of Tied with Tide week for students moving onto campus...

Outside the Bama Theatre where Theatre Tuscaloosa's version of "Anything Goes" is playing.

Culture Pick: Opening night of “Anything Goes” is packed with powerhouse performances

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor August 3, 2024

Theatre Tuscaloosa’s performance of “Anything Goes” opened on Thursday and will continue through Aug 4 in partnership with Shelton State Community College.  With a title like “Anything Goes,”...

Gambill Gentry received bond Wednesday after appearing at the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse.

UA student charged with numerous sex crimes denied bond at pretrial detention hearing

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor July 30, 2024

Content warning: This story contains references to sexual assault and other acts readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.  UA student Gambill Gentry was denied bond following a hearing...

How social media is impacting the 2024 presidential race

How social media is impacting the 2024 presidential race

Ava Morthland and Elijah Doomes July 23, 2024

President Joe Biden announced Sunday that he would not accept the Democratic nomination for the 2024 presidential race. The same day, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to be his successor, a...

A statue of Peter Bryce sits at the Bryce Hospital Museum.

A look into history: University of Alabama unveils Bryce Hospital Museum

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor June 28, 2024

The Alabama Department of Mental Health hosted the opening of the Bryce Hospital Museum at the Catherine and Pettus Randall Welcome Center Friday. The museum, which is dedicated to former ADMH commissioner...

Kentuck's Art Markets are monthly events that showcase local artists.

Kentuck’s Art Market showcases local artists

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor June 12, 2024

Kentuck will host its monthly Art Market providing an opportunity for new and experienced local artists to learn from one another and display their work. The event will occur Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to...

Celebrate Local is a yearly event that recognizes local business owners and artists.

Celebrate Local aims to support local artists and independent businesses

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor June 12, 2024

Tuscaloosa River Market hosted the seventh year of Celebrate Local on Tuesday. The event aimed to recognize local artists and independent businesses within the Tuscaloosa community. Each year since 2017,...

TusKaloosa PicKers offers a variety of unique finds for Tuscaloosans.

‘Take a trip down memory lane’: Local marketplace offers a bounty of unique pieces

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor June 5, 2024

Editor's note: This story was updated June 6 to correct names in the story. A previous version of the story stated that "Tracie and Bo Swann" were the owners of TusKaloosa PicKers, when in fact their surname...

Located next to the Student Recreation Center, the Student Health Center offers urgent care, women's health care and more.

Student guide to wellness on campus

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor May 31, 2024

For many students, college is the first time in their lives that they will have to handle medical issues on their own. University Medical Center, the Women and Gender Resource Center and the Counseling...

Students enjoy a sunny day on the Quad.

Finding your way around campus

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor May 31, 2024

The University of Alabama is home to over 40,000 students and offers various ways to learn about opportunities and resources. Social media, apps, campuswide events and organizations that any student can...

The Strip is located on University Boulevard and features many businesses frequented by UA students.

Popular spots to drop by during Bama Bound

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor May 29, 2024

Before Bama Bound is over, here is a list of places to consider swinging by to stock up on all UA essentials. They are all located on the Strip, an area filled with retail stores and restaurants that embody...

"Heartbreak High," is series on Netflix that shows the realities of being teenagers

Movies and shows to be on the lookout for this Pride month

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor May 29, 2024

As Pride month approaches, it is important to take some time to recognize queer voices on and behind the screen. The following collection of movies and TV shows help educate and immerse people in the queer...

This print of a butterfly, the organization's logo, is based on a drawing the late Hunter Whitley drew prior to his death.

Local nonprofit advocates for veteran’s mental health this Memorial Day

Ava Morthland, Culture Editor May 27, 2024

This Memorial Day, Americans remember those who have lost their lives in service to the country. The Hunter Whitley Butterfly Initiative is a nonprofit organization that aims to bring awareness to veterans’...

UA New College class aims to share gardening resources with the Tuscaloosa community

UA New College class aims to share gardening resources with the Tuscaloosa community

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 24, 2024

New College class 226 Organic Farming has been working with Jeremiah’s Community Garden in Tuscaloosa to help complete tasks at the garden and gain educational experiences.  According to the garden’s...

‘Don’t Forget Me’: Singer Maggie Rogers yearns for an easy love

‘Don’t Forget Me’: Singer Maggie Rogers yearns for an easy love

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 24, 2024

Maggie Rogers’ third studio album came out on April 12, telling the story of simple pleasures, becoming grounded and reflecting on her 20s. This album, “Don’t Forget Me,” is an authentic blend...

Libraries promote sustainability with used books

Libraries promote sustainability with used books

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 17, 2024

Libraries help build a community of sustainability through the foundation of donating and reusing books. Resources like the Tuscaloosa Public Library and Little Free Libraries  aim to provide a neutral...

Students, faculty and staff now have access to The New York Times.

UA Libraries offers free access to New York Times for students, faculty and staff

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 14, 2024

The University announced Wednesday that students, faculty and staff now have free digital access to The New York Times through a campus-based subscription.  Students, faculty and staff will have access...

Aspiring UA choreographers display work at new showcase

Aspiring UA choreographers display work at new showcase

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 10, 2024

UA Theatre and Dance hosted the first Emerging Choreography Showcase from April 2 to 6, sharing the work of twelve aspiring choreographers.   Choreographers and dancers were able to share their talent...

Participants drop off letters at the letter writing campaign at Grace Presbyterian Church on Thursday, April 4.

Birmingham DSA and UA students co-host ‘Save Our Libraries’ letter-writing event

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 7, 2024

The Birmingham chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America joined the UA Leftist Collective to co-host a “Save Our Libraries” letter-writing event at Grace Presbyterian Church on Thursday.   The...

Birmingham-Southern College will close its doors for good in May.

UA System to offer expedited transfer process to Birmingham Southern College students

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer April 3, 2024

The University of Alabama System agreed to expedite applications and waive application fees for eligible Birmingham-Southern College on March 27.   On March 26, the BSC board of trustees voted to...

‘We are seen, heard and celebrated here’: UA organizations come together to celebrate Holi

‘We are seen, heard and celebrated here’: UA organizations come together to celebrate Holi

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer March 31, 2024

The Indian Student Association of Tuscaloosa and the Nepalese Student Association came together to celebrate Holi on campus on March 23.  Holi is the festival of colors that is part of Hindu celebration...

Autherine Lucy at the dedication ceremony of the College of Education on Feb. 25, 2022.

UA women and their legacy honored on campus buildings

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer March 27, 2024

The University of Alabama honors women leaders who have helped pave the way for future generations of young women.   At least fourteen buildings at the University have been named after these women...

WGRC hosted a fall campfire event on Oct. 17, 2023, where different clubs and resources tabled and offered information on the Student Center Lawn.

UA organizations come together to celebrate Take Back the Night event

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer March 27, 2024

Editor's note (04/02/2024): This story was updated to reflect a date change made by the Women and Gender Resource Center. Due to expected severe weather, the Take Back the Night event has been moved from...

Students demonstrate against SB 129 on Wednesday outside the Alabama State House in Montgomery.

[Photo] “I see hatred in this”: SB 129 passes in state House

Jacob Ritondo and Ethan Henry March 7, 2024

Students demonstrate against SB 129 on Wednesday outside the Alabama State House in Montgomery.

CW / Ava Morthland

Students rally against SB 129 at Montgomery State House

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer March 7, 2024

Students from across Alabama came together in front of the Montgomery State House to rally against SB 129 and show their support for diversity, equity and inclusion on Wednesday.  The rally was attended...

Roxane Gay, New York Times best selling author. Known for her non-fiction works that encourage equality and acceptance for all people.

Book recommendations for Women’s History Month

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer March 6, 2024

During Women’s History Month, it is important to take time to appreciate not only the significant work of women authors, but also the writers themselves. These authors are the modern voices of women...

CW / Caroline Simmons

UA students and faculty demonstrate in support of diversity, equity and inclusion

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 29, 2024

Editor's note (03/03/2024): This story was updated to include the number of people in attendance at the demonstration organized by the Queer Student Association, Hispanic-Latino Association and the Black...

‘DEI saves our students' lives’: Students organize strikes and demonstrations in response to Alabama senate bill

‘DEI saves our students’ lives’: Students organize strikes and demonstrations in response to Alabama senate bill

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 25, 2024

On Thursday, the Alabama Senate approved Senate Bill 129, which would ban the public funding of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The bill awaits a vote Wednesday in the House.  The bill...

University Programs brings back ‘Engagement Pods’ to campus

University Programs brings back ‘Engagement Pods’ to campus

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 25, 2024

Engagement Pods, started by University Programs in 2020, are back this semester to give students an opportunity to lead and build community.   The 17 small groups, which allow students to meet regularly...

Movie and TV show recommendations for Black History Month

Movie and TV show recommendations for Black History Month

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 25, 2024

During Black History Month, it is important to appreciate the Black voices in cinema. Here are four movies and TV shows made during or after the year 2015 that recognize the value of diversity through...

Body Appreciation Week celebrated at UA

Body Appreciation Week celebrated at UA

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 25, 2024

Body Appreciation Week, the University’s celebration of Eating Disorders Awareness Week, an annual campaign run by the National Eating Disorders Association that takes place Feb. 26 to March 3, is a...

Jack Warner Parkway has recently been under construction.

Students and business owners welcome completion of Jack Warner Parkway project

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 11, 2024

Phase II of the Jack Warner Parkway renovations, on the stretch from Greensboro Avenue to 21st Avenue, is back open after almost two years of construction.  This project is part of House Bill 600,...

Picture of Ainsley Greer artwork at the University Medical Center.

UA student featured at Wellness Walls for Art exhibit

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 11, 2024

The Wellness Walls for Art program, started in 2013, is sharing a new exhibition titled “Five Seasoned Artists” at University Medical Center. The exhibition is a collection of work from Ann Betak,...

Engage Tuscaloosa aims to strengthen the local community

Engage Tuscaloosa aims to strengthen the local community

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 7, 2024

In 2012, Colby Leopard, then a student at the University, wanted to help middle and high school students with their reading skills, so he developed the idea of READ Alabama.  READ Alabama soon became...

Book recommendations for Black History Month

Book recommendations for Black History Month

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer February 4, 2024

During Black History Month, it is important to take a moment to not only recognize Black authors, but also appreciate the representation that is being shared through literature. These pieces of literature...

The President’s Mansion, where enslaved people worked often, is one of the few buildings that has survived on campus since before the Civil War.

New website tells the story of enslaved people at UA

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer January 24, 2024

A faculty research group has compiled research for and created a new website detailing the University’s history with enslaved people before the Civil War.   Titled “The History of Enslaved People...

‘Saltburn’: Disturbing or masterpiece?

‘Saltburn’: Disturbing or masterpiece?

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer January 24, 2024

“Saltburn,” directed by Emerald Fennell and released in November 2023, stars Barry Keoghan as Oliver Quick, Jacob Elordi as Felix Catton, Rosamund Pike as Elspeth Catton, Richard E. Grant as Sir James...

Students met with clubs they were interested in at the Student Center.

UA organizations table at spring Get on Board Day

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer January 21, 2024

The University held its Spring 2024 Get on Board Day event on Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Student Center.  Organizations set up display tables with their information on the building’s second...

The Women and Gender Resources building

A look into what healthy relationships are in college

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer January 17, 2024

While in college, many students find themselves entering new relationships. Whether that be with friends, romantic partners or new family members, learning how to navigate and self-reflect is key in improving...

SGA distributes tickets to primary debate

SGA distributes tickets to primary debate

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer December 5, 2023

As the Republican primary debate on Wednesday approaches, tickets have been distributed through the Student Government Association and the University. People not in attendance at the debate can watch it...

The UA Safe Zone Resource Center located in the Student Center.

UA organizations observe Transgender Awareness Week

Josie Wahl and Ava Morthland November 15, 2023

During Transgender Awareness Week, observed during the week leading up to Transgender Day of Remembrance on Nov. 20, UA organizations are working to provide events and resources to transgender students....

The Lakeside Dining Hall

UA department hosts Intuitive Eating Tuesdays

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer November 15, 2023

On Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, a recurring online session on Tuesdays will take place at noon with Sheena Gregg, a registered dietitian with the UA Department of Health Promotion and Wellness, to help share information...

Students at the Arts and Sciences celebration gathering at Smith Hall.

UA celebrations first-ever week of celebration for first-generation students

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer November 15, 2023

The University held its first-ever week of celebration for first-gen students. Through the week of Nov. 6-11, community-based events took place to support and appreciate first-generation students. Randi...

Student organizations host screening of ‘Victim/Suspect’ documentary

Student organizations host screening of ‘Victim/Suspect’ documentary

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer November 12, 2023

Not On My Campus partnered with the SGA to show a screening of the Netflix documentary "Victim/Suspect" on Wednesday at the Student Center Theater.  Along with the screening, there was also a panel...

Alabama Museum of Natural History and Gorgas House Museum co-host ‘Haunting at the Museum’

Alabama Museum of Natural History and Gorgas House Museum co-host ‘Haunting at the Museum’

Ava Morthland and Brandon Smith November 5, 2023

The Alabama Museum of Natural History and the Gorgas House Museum co-hosted “Haunting at the Museum” events between Oct. 23 and 31.  On Oct. 25, the Alabama Museum of Natural History held a “family...

The hidden history behind Bryce Hospital

The hidden history behind Bryce Hospital

Ava Morthland and Gabriella Puccio-Johnson November 1, 2023

The historic Bryce Hospital is now being given the chance to pave an educational path. In the 1850s, Bryce Hospital was constructed in Tuscaloosa, and it was officially inaugurated as the Alabama State...

Students browse prints at the Print Sale event.

Alabama Print and Book Group shares artwork and raises money through tabling event

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer October 29, 2023

Alabama Print and Book Group held a tabling event Tuesday to sell prints, shirts and patches to raise money for its printmaking workshop.   The group aims to build a community and bring awareness...

End Overdose held an event that included Narcan training on Oct. 11

UA organizations aim to spread awareness on naloxone and opioid overdoses

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer October 18, 2023

Fentanyl overdose is the No. 1 cause of death for U.S. citizens ages 18-45. Student organizations like End Overdose and HOSA-Future Health Professionals aim to end the stigma surrounding overdoses and...

Art pieces in Madison Grooters' exhibit

Madison Grooters showcases her art on sexuality and gender identity

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer October 18, 2023

UA alum Madison Grooters showcased her artwork at the Intercultural Diversity Center on Oct. 16.  Grooters graduated last May and now works at the University as a specialist for the sculpture foundry....

Only 1 Homecoming queen candidate found to violate campaign rules

Only 1 Homecoming queen candidate found to violate campaign rules

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer October 13, 2023

Homecoming queen candidate Chloe Holladay is the only candidate who violated campaign rules, according to the University’s Homecoming website.   Violations were uploaded Friday morning. On Monday,...

UA works on finding a space for first-generation college students

UA works on finding a space for first-generation college students

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer October 11, 2023

University of Alabama officials have made a concerted effort to make the University a more welcoming institution for first-generation college students.   Despite this progress, however, some students...

Justin Stabler speaks at “The Forgotten Creeks” screening event hosted by the Blackburn Institute at the Intercultural Diversity Center.

Blackburn Institute hosts ‘Forgotten Creeks’ documentary, conversation with Justin Stabler

Ava Morthland, Staff Writer October 4, 2023

The Blackburn Insitute’s latest addition to its “Perceptive on Speakers” series featured a documentary on titled “The Forgotten Creeks.” Along with the screening, Justin Stabler, a member of...

Moundville’s 35th annual Native American festival to be held this week

Moundville’s 35th annual Native American festival to be held this week

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer October 1, 2023

The 35th annual Native American Festival will take place at Moundville Archaeological Park Oct. 4-7.   According to the park’s website, there will be storytelling, traditional dances and classes...

Alabama Pearls offers a place for young women to learn professional and leadership skills

Alabama Pearls offers a place for young women to learn professional and leadership skills

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer September 24, 2023

A new organization called Alabama Pearls that aims to prepare young women for the workforce held a kickoff event on Wednesday.   Alabama Pearls’ lineup of events for this semester includes a build-your-brand...

“The Gibbs-Green Tragedy” exhibition on display at the Paul R. Jones Museum.

Jackson State College tragedy shared through photographs at the Paul R. Jones Museum

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer September 24, 2023

“May 1970: The Gibbs-Green Tragedy” at Jackson State College exhibition is a collection of photographs taken by Doris Derby. Derby was an activist during the 1970s and captured historical events through...

Students play with puppies at the “Destress and Play with Puppies” event at the Student Center Plaza.

Puppies brought to campus to help de-stress UA students

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer September 24, 2023

Tide Against Suicide hosted its fifth suicide prevention week event at the University. Partnering with the SGA, the organization brought four puppies to the Student Center Plaza on Sept. 22, from 10 a.m....

Tuscaloosa business relies on football season

Tuscaloosa business relies on football season

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer September 20, 2023

The economic impact of the football season in Tuscaloosa cannot be ignored.   In 2022 tourists spent $895 million, with each home game weekend that year bringing in $20 million to $25 million on average....

The House Tuscaloosa promotes educational, spiritual and musical literacy

The House Tuscaloosa promotes educational, spiritual and musical literacy

Zara Morgan and Ava Morthland September 20, 2023

After working within local churches for years, Lori Maxey felt the need to serve the community in a more hands-on way. Her husband always had a dream to own a used bookstore, and that’s when The House...

Tide2 welcomes sophomores at Kick Off Event

Tide2 welcomes sophomores at Kick Off Event

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer September 10, 2023

The Office of Student Involvement kicked off a brand-new leadership opportunity for sophomores on Sept. 1. Hosted at John England Jr. Hall, the Tide2 Kick Off Event had a taco and boba truck to entice...

The Women and Gender Resources Center hosts a 30th anniversary event at its office on Aug. 29

WGRC celebrates 30 years at the University

Ava Morthland, Contributing Writer August 30, 2023

The Women and Gender Resource Center celebrated its 30th birthday Tuesday to commemorate the progress the center has made since its establishment at The University.    The celebration included an...