Women of Influence
Empowering Student Success Through Collective Giving
Women of Influence brings together female alumni and friends of the University of North Alabama who believe in the transformational power of education and want to make a collective difference for UNA students, faculty, and staff.
Founded by UNA First Lady Dena Kitts, Women of Influence was created to directly support student success in meaningful and practical ways. Through philanthropy, collaboration, and intentional program support, members help provide opportunities and experiences that allow the UNA community to grow, thrive, and succeed.
Our Mission
Women of Influence is open to female alumni and friends of the University of North Alabama who contribute $250 or more annually to the Women of Influence Fund at the UNA Foundation.
The program allows philanthropists who share a passion for and commitment to UNA students to come together and make a collective difference by partnering directly with UNA’s First Lady Dena Kitts.
As the First Lady’s signature initiative, one-third of the donations raised each year is designated to the philanthropic priority of the First Lady’s choice. Annual votes by Women of Influence members determine the distribution of the remaining two-thirds of the funds, giving every member a voice in how the money will make a difference at UNA.
Members are invited to two campus-based meetings each year and receive an exclusive look into the heart of UNA through stories and updates from faculty, alumni, and students.
[Join or Renew]
Our Influence
Women of Influence members believe their influence is greater collectively than it is individually. Members work together to use their strengths to support opportunities and experiences that help UNA students, faculty, and staff grow, thrive, and succeed.
Women of Influence is intentional with program support, evaluating opportunities based on potential impact and giving voice to the unheard while influencing positive change in support of UNA’s educational mission.
Impact at UNA
Women of Influence funding has supported a wide range of projects and initiatives across UNA, including experiential learning, student wellness, academic support, STEM education, global learning, athletics, student emergency assistance, and community-based programs.
Recent funded initiatives have included projects such as:
- A Community of Communication for Children with Special Needs
- Collaborative Initiative for Infant and Toddler Education
- Enhancing the Esports Program at UNA
- Experience the World!
- Increasing Access to STEM Education
- Laser Camp: Bringing STEAM to Light
- Kilby Whole Health Initiative
- Linking Lionesses: Girls Roaring in Robotics
- Leo’s Feel Good Fest
- On Board for Success!
- Tiny Cubs Boutique
- First Lady’s Initiatives, including support for women’s sports and Caring for the Pride
Apply for Funding
Women of Influence funding applications may be submitted by any UNA faculty or staff member with supervisor approval or by any UNA student with a faculty or staff sponsor.
Applications must be received by October 15, with awards made by December 31 of each year.
[Apply for Funding]
Women of Influence Leadership
Women of Influence is led by women who are committed to UNA, student success, and the power of collective philanthropy.
Chair
Dena Kitts
First Lady of UNA
Founder and Co-Chair, Women of Influence
Dena Kitts is the wife of President Ken Kitts and First Lady of UNA. Since arriving on campus in 2015, she has been an active supporter of student success and an enthusiastic advocate for the University. Her passion for helping students overcome barriers and succeed at UNA led her to establish Women of Influence.
Vice-Chair
Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller
Membership Chair
Michelle Forsythe Jones
Contact Information
Office of University Advancement
UNA Box 5113 | Rogers Hall
256-765-4670
Kevin R. Haslam
VP for Advancement; Executive Director for UNA Foundation
khaslam@una.edu