The National Alumni Association created the Distinguished Alumni Awards Program in 1966 to recognize a distinguished alumnus and alumna of The University of Alabama for their contributions to the institution and the Alumni Association. The award is based on one’s loyalty and service to the University and the Association; character and personal life; professional achievement or success in chosen endeavors; and community service on local, state, or national level.
Nominations may be made by any alumnus or alumna, by any alumni chapter, or by any member of the faculty or staff of the University. All active alumni of the University are eligible to receive the award. Nominations remain active for two years. The selection committee is composed of the five immediate past presidents of the National Alumni Association and two other alumni named by the President of the Association. The senior past president shall serve as chairperson.
2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients
Jody Singer ’83
Jody Singer earned her bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from The University of Alabama in 1983.
Singer began her 38-year career with NASA in 1985. She successfully served in high-profile human space exploration programs, including Artemis, Space Shuttle, International Space Station and Commercial Crew. She supported over 110 human space flight missions. In 2018, she became the first female director of the Marshall Space Flight Center.
Singer has been honored with the Distinguished Service, Exceptional Service and Outstanding Leadership Medals; two Presidential Rank Awards; and the Astronaut Corps Silver Snoopy Award. She serves on The University of Alabama President’s Cabinet and the College of Engineering External Advisory Board. She was also inducted into the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame.
Singer’s faithful commitment to the state of Alabama and to its space program has helped make great leaps in space exploration. She now resides in Huntsville, Alabama, with her husband, Chris. They have three children and eight grandchildren.
Haig Wright II ’82
Haig Wright II earned his bachelor’s degree in business from The University of Alabama in 1982. After graduation, he worked in insurance, eventually becoming the president and later CEO of Byars Wright Insurance. He was named CEO of the Year by Birmingham Business Journal and praised as a top CEO by Reagan Consulting Group.
In addition to his professional career, Wright was an active Walker County Alumni Association member. Wright served in several leadership roles in the National Alumni Association and served as president of the NAA from 2019-20.
While residing in Walker County with his wife, Robin, and four children, he was a faithful member and Sunday School teacher at his church, Jasper First Methodist. He donated a significant sum to the Walker Area Community Foundation, establishing the Wright Family Fund.
Wright was well known by all for his kindness, outstanding character and a million-dollar heart, smile and laugh.