TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama’s collegiate license tag program raised almost $2 million for scholarships during the 2005 fiscal year. Funds raised through the statewide program are used for scholarships for graduate and undergraduate students.

UA’s National Alumni Association raised a total $1,963,533.09 through the car tag program in FY 2005, the most of any university in the state. Auburn came in a close second with $1,850,062.92. Since the program’s inception in 1988, UA has raised more than $13 million and Auburn has brought it some $14.8 million, according to figures released by the State Comptroller’s office.

More than 500 UA undergraduate students received scholarships through the license tag program this year, and 29 graduate students received fellowships.

“Collegiate license tags are an excellent way for alumni to support their university,” said Pat Whetstone, director of alumni affairs at UA. “Alumni and fans can show their allegiance and provide funds for scholarships for deserving students at the same time. It’s truly a win-win program.”

UA collegiate license tags are available at local county license offices. Both numbered tags and personalized tags are available. The cost is $50 above the normal tag cost. Collegiate license tags may be purchased at any time, regardless of an individual’s tag renewal month.

For more information on UA’s “Ride with the Tide” program, go to http://alumni.ua.edu or call the UA Alumni Affairs office at 205/348-5963.