President's Message

Welcome to the University of North Alabama, where educational excellence thrives in the rich cultural heritage of the Shoals region of Alabama. UNA is an extraordinary place. As the oldest public university in the state, we have a fascinating history and a great story to tell.

If you are a prospective student, I encourage you to let academic criteria guide your choice of a college or university. Does the institution offer the degree program you need? Will the institution nurture you as you pursue your program of study? Will the faculty support you and challenge you to excel? Will the university do its best to keep the cost of education affordable so you can complete your journey and move on to a rewarding career?

At UNA, we answer these questions each day with an emphatic YES! Our faculty and staff are talented professionals who are committed to helping students succeed. The environment is safe and supportive, and the campus is stunningly beautiful. The serenity of our grounds is complemented by the adjacent historic district and vibrant downtown area of Florence --Alabama’s Renaissance City. It is an ideal setting in which to live and study.

My family and I are privileged to live in a beautiful, historic home at the main entrance to campus. Each morning we awake to the sound of Leo roaring in the lion habitat next door. It is a distinctive alarm clock and is another attribute of UNA that highlights our unique status in the crowded landscape of American higher education. We feel the pride of this special place every day.

With its wonderful people, beautiful campus, and regional charm, UNA is the perfect fit for you, too. I invite you to check out our website, or, better yet, stop by for a visit. You’ll be glad you did.

Roar Lions!

Dr. Ken Kitts,
President

Meet the President

Dr. Ken Kitts became president of the University of North Alabama on March 30, 2015. Prior to joining UNA, Dr. Kitts served in various academic and administrative positions at institutions in North Carolina and South Carolina.

Dr. Kitts earned the BA, MA, and PhD degrees in political science and also holds a post-graduate certificate from Harvard University’s Institute for Educational Management. Dr. Kitts’ academic interests include the American presidency, national security, and executive advisory systems. He is the author of an award-winning book on presidential commissions and has published numerous articles, reviews, and commentaries on topics dealing with both political science and higher education.

As president of UNA, Dr. Kitts has focused his efforts on expanding academic opportunities, enhancing the student experience, and promoting the University to external constituencies. He has presided over record enrollment growth and secured the funds necessary to develop new academic programs and facilities. He works closely with faculty and staff to ensure that growth aligns well with the University’s identity, strategic priorities, and commitment to region and state. A self-proclaimed professor at heart, Dr. Kitts still finds time to teach to underscore his personal commitment to students and his belief in engaged leadership.

Dr. Kitts is a fan of Lion Athletics and led the successful transition of UNA to Division I status in the NCAA classification system. Along with his family, he is known for his support of student events and involvement in a wide range of campus activities.

Dr. Kitts serves on a variety of governing boards including the Business Council of Alabama, the Shoals Chamber of Commerce, and the President’s Council of the ASUN Athletic Conference. He is a member of Leadership Alabama and the Florence Rotary Club.