Story & Photos: Kay Lucas

The University of West Alabama hosted Alabama Power’s Safe-T-Zone program on July 16 to provide high-voltage electricity safety training for approximately 75 first responders in the Black Belt Region.

Designed specifically for firefighters, police officers, and volunteer firefighters, Safe-T-Zone training provides first responders with practical knowledge and safety techniques to help them make informed decisions when responding to emergency situations.

Experienced Alabama Power line personnel led live demonstrations for first responders using a custom-built trailer powered by primary and secondary voltage to demonstrate real-world dangers involving overhead and underground power lines. The training also included scenarios involving substation fires, downed power lines, generator back feed, vehicles in contact with power lines, and consequences of pulling a meter during a house fire.

“At UWA, we are proud to support Alabama Power’s Safe-T-Zone training by providing a place where first responders from across our region can strengthen the skills that help keep their communities safe,” said UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch. “Strategic partnerships like this reflect our vision for the University as a catalyst for education, workforce development, and regional progress. By working alongside organizations that share our commitment to service and learning, we are helping strengthen the Black Belt through meaningful educational experiences that extend well beyond the traditional classroom.”

Fritch thanked Alabama Power Director for Community Engagement Joseph Brown, who also serves as chair of UWA’s Board of Trustees, for facilitating the collaboration.

“This collaboration between UWA and Alabama Power is a true investment in the Black Belt Region, specifically in our people who go above and beyond often with limited resources to help serve and protect our communities,” Fritch said. “Partnering with Alabama Power ensures that we are providing superior quality training to help protect and equip our local first responders and frontline service employees, and we are grateful to Mr. Brown for his shared vision for strengthening the Black Belt through collaboration between the two organizations.”

UWA Police Chief Josette White coordinated engagement with first responder agencies in the area, echoing Fritch’s commitment to helping provide valuable experiences to organizations whose frontline personnel who participated.

“Our first responders are called to make split-second decisions in some of the most dangerous situations imaginable,” White said. “Having the opportunity to experience these electrical hazards in a controlled environment and learn directly from Alabama Power’s experts makes them better prepared to protect themselves and the communities they serve. Partnerships like this strengthen public safety not only on our campus, but throughout west Alabama.”

For the University, additional training opportunities through the Division of Lifelong Learning and Economic & Workforce Development strengthen the educational opportunities offered outside the classroom.

“Universities have a responsibility to extend learning beyond the boundaries of degree programs,” said UWA Provost Dr. Amy H. Jones. “Whether we are educating our students, supporting professional development, or providing opportunities for industry and public safety partners to share their expertise, collaborations like this strengthen both our communities and our educational mission. We are proud to see our campus serve as a place where knowledge, experience, and service come together for the benefit of the region.”

For more information about Safe-T-Zone training, contact Alabama Power Public Safety Awareness at Safety@AlabamaPower.com.

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Story: Betsy Compton

A new economic impact study shows the University of West Alabama generates $448.4 million in annual economic activity across the state, supporting businesses, communities, and workforce development throughout Alabama.

The study highlights the significant role UWA plays in strengthening the state’s economy through university operations, student and visitor spending, and the long-term contributions of alumni working across Alabama.

“The University of West Alabama is transforming lives through education while also strengthening the economic future of the State of Alabama,” said University President Dr. Todd G. Fritch. “Our graduates are making meaningful contributions in classrooms, hospitals, businesses, and communities across Alabama. We are proud to highlight the lasting impact of a UWA education—not only for our students, but for the entire state. The study delves into the impacts of alumni, student, and university spending throughout the state, the number of jobs supported, visitor spending, and much more to recognize the value that this University brings to not only the region but the entire state.”

Alumni Drive the Largest Share of Economic Impact

The study found that the largest share of UWA’s economic impact comes from its graduates working across Alabama. Alumni contribute $388.4 million in income to the state’s economy each year through higher earnings and increased productivity in the workforce.

In total, UWA alumni working across Alabama support 6,615 jobs in industries ranging from education and healthcare to business and public service.

Economic Activity Across the State

In addition to alumni contributions, several other factors contribute to the University’s overall economic impact.

University operations—including payroll and spending on goods and services—generated $44.1 million in income for the Alabama economy during the study year.

Student spending also plays a role in supporting local businesses and communities. Spending by students attending UWA generated $10.2 million in economic activity statewide, while visitors traveling to campus for events and activities contributed $1.3 million in additional income to the state economy.

Construction activity at the University also contributed to the state’s economy, generating $3 million in added income during the fiscal year.

A Strong Investment in Education

Beyond its economic impact, the study highlights the long-term value of a UWA education.

Graduates benefit from increased earning potential throughout their careers. The study found that the average UWA master’s graduate earns approximately $12,500 more per year than someone with only a bachelor’s degree working in Alabama—an advantage that can total about $400,000 in additional earnings over a career.

Students also see strong returns on their educational investment. On average, students receive $2.70 in lifetime earnings for every dollar invested in their education, representing a higher than national average annual return of 14.6 percent.

Broader Benefits to Alabama

The study also found that the University generates significant long-term benefits for Alabama’s economy and society. In total, the long-term economic and social benefits associated with UWA amount to $1.1 billion in value for Alabama society, including increased workforce productivity and savings related to health, justice system, and income assistance costs.

Learn more about UWA’s economic impact study findings and explore the full Economic Impact Study.

About the Study The economic impact analysis reflects fiscal year 2023–24 data provided by the University of West Alabama for a study conducted using Lightcast’s economic modeling tools and incorporates data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, and other national sources. The analysis measures both the economic impact created by UWA and the return on investment for students, taxpayers, and society.

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The University of West Alabama has announced a partnership with YMCA of Tuscaloosa aimed at expanding wellness, fitness, and recreation opportunities while providing additional resources to both the campus and surrounding community.

The partnership is expected to increase access to fitness and wellness resources, strengthen youth and family programming, and create new opportunities for collaborative initiatives that positively impact UWA and surrounding communities.

“This partnership with YMCA of Tuscaloosa reflects UWA’s commitment to supporting the overall well-being of our students, the campus community, and the greater Livingston and Sumter County communities,” said UWA President Todd G. Fritch. “By collaborating with the Y, we are expanding opportunities and resources that promote healthy lifestyles, increased engagement, and community connection.”

Through the partnership, UWA Fitness Center members can participate in YMCA’s Nationwide Membership program, which allows members to utilize participating YMCA facilities across the country while traveling or on vacation, offering greater flexibility and access to health and wellness services.

In addition to expanded fitness and wellness access at UWA and at YMCA locations nationwide, the partnership enhances community programming opportunities through YMCA of Tuscaloosa, including youth sports, summer camp, and after-school care programs. These offerings provide families with safe, supportive environments that encourage physical activity, personal growth, and lifelong healthy habits for children and youth.

“We are excited to partner with the University of West Alabama,” said Jeff Knox, CEO of YMCA Tuscaloosa. “Together, we can broaden access to wellness opportunities, youth development programs, and community-centered resources that serve students, faculty, staff, and families throughout the region.”

For more information about the partnership or membership details visit  or email jfritch@ymcatusc.org.

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