Written by , Special to the Van Nuys News Press

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama is continuing its longstanding commitment to provide resources for students training to be part of our nation’s armed forces and those who have already served with the construction of a new facility dedicated to the military community. 

The nearly 20,000 square foot Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Facility and Student Veterans Center will be located on the east side of campus near the Student Recreation Center. 

“Creating a facility that meets today’s military training standards while also supporting students academically is a powerful investment in their success,” said Dr. Tiffany A. Sippial, associate provost for undergraduate education. “This space will help our cadets and student veterans grow as scholars, teammates, and future leaders.”

Alabama President Peter Mohler, Brigadier General Maurice Barnett and Colonel Eugene Moore the third holding shovels during the groundbreaking ceremony
UA President Peter J. Mohler; Brigadier General Maurice Barnett, U.S. Commanding General Army Cadet Command and Fort Knox; and Colonel Eugene Moore III, Commander of Air Force ROTC, Maxwell Air Force Base, break ground for the ROTC Facility and Student Veterans Center.

The center will give Army and Air Force ROTC cadets access to a modern training facility that meets updated military training and testing standards. Expanded spaces will support physical conditioning and advanced training tools, including combat simulators and leadership reaction courses. These interactive technologies strengthen individual skills and support leadership development. 

The facility will also offer a space to enhance resources for veterans on campus, bringing together student and faculty veterans to share their experiences and successes with ROTC cadets as well as assisting student veterans in the transition from military to college life. 

Construction of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Facility and Student Veterans Center is scheduled to be complete in spring 2027.  


The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides a forward-thinking environment and over 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. As the state’s largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.