Dr. Samory Pruitt to Retire from University of Alabama

Dr. Samory Pruitt, who has spent his professional life devoted to public service at the University of Alabama, is set to retire on June 1, 2026.

By the time he steps down, Pruitt will have completed 40 years at the university, leading the Community Affairs division since its establishment in 2004. Dr. Robert E. Witt tasked him with developing this administrative unit aimed at enhancing the lives of people in Alabama and beyond through innovative education and research initiatives.

“It feels like the right time to close this chapter of my life. I can’t wait to embrace the next one alongside my family and friends, although my dedication to community service will continue,” Pruitt expressed. “It’s been a privilege to collaborate with so many wonderful individuals to align the university’s mission with our community’s needs.”

During his tenure, Pruitt oversaw significant department growth, which now includes an administrative office, a community partnership center, and the Crossroads Civic Engagement Center, all supporting nearly 20 programs. The department aims to provide students with valuable engagement opportunities, employing 10 graduate assistants and numerous undergraduate students and volunteers who collaborate closely with staff.

“I’m deeply thankful for the chance to work alongside such remarkable colleagues in the Community Affairs department. Their commitment is inspiring,” he noted. “We take great pride in our core values: relevance, reciprocity, research, and resilience.”

Pruitt’s innovative mindset and leadership in service have garnered respect, particularly in the realm of community-focused scholarship. His vision inspired the creation of the Community Engagement and Scholarship Journal, a prominent peer-reviewed publication in community scholarship, which he still contributes to.

As President Stuart R. Bell stated, “Dr. Pruitt’s decades of service have left a remarkable legacy at the university and in the community. His dedication to public service and community engagement has positively impacted countless lives.”

Pruitt’s division has notably influenced the greater Tuscaloosa area, the Black Belt region, and the state overall, achieving recognition from the Alabama Senate and House of Representatives as they celebrate the department’s 20th anniversary in 2024.

• In 2006, the Crossroads Engagement Center was established to enhance dialogue skills and support civic leadership efforts, preparing the next generation to be informed citizens.
• In 2007, a community partnership center was formed, alongside its council, facilitating various initiatives in education, global engagement, and community research.
• In 2008, UA became the sixth higher education institution and the first non-land-grant institution to join a national coalition. In 2012, UA hosted over 600 participants from 57 institutions at an event on campus.
• Through the Global Café and Language Partners program, UA has fostered opportunities for students to study abroad via the Fulbright program, marking a significant achievement in 2016.
• In 2016, he initiated the Community Program, aiding faculty and community members in acquiring grants that have totalled over $100 million aimed at enhancing quality of life.
• The Community Affairs Advisory Committee was founded in 2016, uniting distinguished UA alumni and focused on providing support through scholarships and guidance.
• Pruitt has also worked to connect UA alumni with community partners to celebrate the university’s legacy.

Pruitt holds all three degrees from UA, including a doctorate in higher education. He started working at the university in 1986 and has taken on various increasingly responsible roles, including positions in finance and the President’s Office.

His numerous accolades include recognition for outstanding public service in 2002, the Francis S. Summersell Award in 2014, and the E. Roger Sayers Award in 2016, recognizing his contributions towards enhancing life in the state.

Pruitt has actively participated in over 10 community organizations, including the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce and the Tuscaloosa Rotary Club.

In a 2025 profile by UA freshman Isiah Shareef, it’s noted that Pruitt was inducted into the Tuscaloosa County Citizens Hall of Fame in 2022 and recognized as a living legend by the NAACP Tuscaloosa branch in 2024. His service commitment continues through his involvement on boards, including that of Stillman College.

As he approaches his retirement, Pruitt looks forward to building on the success achieved at UA. “I am eager to see our campus thrive further, expressing gratitude to all those who’ve worked so hard to affect lives positively,” he remarked.