11/02/2026
The University of West Alabama community mourns the death of former president Dr. Richard D. Holland, the University’s tenth president and first alumnus to serve in the role.
Holland served as president from 2002 until 2014, having joined the faculty in 1967. His nearly 50-year tenure includes serving as a professor of biology, department chair, dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and president.
“Dr. Holland’s service reflects a deep and lasting commitment to the University of West Alabama,” said UWA President Todd G. Fritch. “As a student, faculty member, academic leader, and president, he helped strengthen the foundation on which our University continues to build—expanding educational opportunity and deepening UWA’s connection to the people and communities we serve.”
Holland will be remembered as a leader who fostered an enduring connection to the communities UWA serves and strengthened the foundation for the University’s ability to provide education, scholarship, and partnership that contributes to the strength and vitality of West Alabama and the Black Belt region.
The University of West Alabama community mourns the death of former president Dr. Richard D. Holland, the University’s tenth president and first alumnus to serve in the role. %