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The University of West Alabama’s Dr. Aliquippa Allen, a resident of Demopolis, has been selected to participate in the esteemed Leadership Alabama, a statewide program of Alabama leaders engaged in creating a network of relationships that seeks mutual understanding of problems and priorities for Alabama’s future. Allen is dean of UWA’s College of Business and Technology. She is one of 67 members chosen statewide as Class 30 for 2019-2020.

“I look forward to gaining a better understanding of the issues and priorities facing our state while determining the role UWA can play in contributing potential solutions and innovative ideas,” Allen said. “This state-wide program will provide opportunities to network and collaborate with senior leaders from various parts of the state. It is truly an honor to be selected to participate in Leadership Alabama, and I am extremely grateful to our University President, Dr. Ken Tucker, for his nomination.”

Allen was named dean of UWA’s College of Business and Technology in June of 2018 after having served as interim dean prior. She joined the UWA faculty in August 2008, becoming department chair in 2013 and associate dean in 2015. She is the 2013 recipient of the prestigious William E. Gilbert Award for Outstanding Teaching, selected by the UWA student body.

During the program year, which begins in October, Allen and the other Leadership Alabama Class 30 members will convene in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Montgomery, where they will hear challenging presentations and participate in class discussions that encourage them to make critical, thoughtful assessments of our state and its issues – both challenging and successful – while learning of some extraordinary initiatives that are addressing those issues.

“Leadership Alabama is an organization comprised of our state’s most accomplished and forward-thinking leaders who share a strong commitment in serving Alabama,” said Gordon Martin, Leadership Alabama’s board chair. “The outstanding members of Class 30 are continuing that steadfast legacy and will build on the strong foundation established by the preceding classes.”

Kate Cotton, executive director, added, “I am always amazed by the caliber and leadership skills of each new class, and once again, Class 30 includes incredible leaders who are already doing so much for our state. By bringing these 67 individuals together, all of us in Alabama are sure to benefit from their collective passion and knowledge.”

(This article originally appeared in the Wednesday, July 17 issue of the Demopolis Times.)