The University of West Alabama Foundation board of directors last week honored its outgoing president as a new slate of officers presided.

The board presented a resolution honoring Dr. Ken Tucker for his service as president from 2006 to 2010, when the university began “The University We Will Be” capital campaign, an ongoing initiative to raise $15 million in gifts and pledges by 2012 to improve campus facilities, provide scholarships, enhance the campus learning environment, support the faculty, and fund community outreach projects.

Tucker, a UWA professor of management and dean of the College of Business, was instrumental in securing numerous major gifts for the university.

“We are grateful for Ken’s leadership, sound judgment and devoted time and energy, which contributed beyond measure to ensuring the campaign flourished during uncertain economic times,” said vice president for institutional advancement Clemit Spruiell, who serves as the board’s executive secretary.

Hal Bloom Jr. of Montgomery succeeds Tucker as the new board president after serving a term as vice president. A 1972 graduate and president of the Bloom Group, he will oversee the campaign through its completion.

Andy Coats of Birmingham, a 1973 graduate and president of Occupational Health Dynamics, serves as vice president. Retired UWA dean Glen Bridges of Livingston, a 1951 graduate, continues his service as treasurer.

In addition, 1968 graduate Bill Lundsford of Tuscaloosa, the chief executive officer of Bill Lunsford Construction and Development, joins the board

The UWA Foundation board of directors attracts, invests, manages and expends gifts and other resources designated to support institutional programs and outreach in the Black Belt region.