A three-day program, known as "Opening Doors," took place June 9-11, 2003, to commemorate the events of June 11, 1963, when two African American students enrolled at UA following the famous "stand in the schoolhouse door." The information on these pages was taken from the Opening Doors archived website.

On June 11, 1963, the eyes of the world were focused on Tuscaloosa, Alabama, as two African-American students, Vivian Malone and James Hood, enrolled at The University of Alabama despite then-Governor George C. Wallace's "Stand in the Schoolhouse Door."

Opening Doors saluted the sacrifice and commitment of the courageous individuals who took a stand for change at a crucial time in our history. We look to the example of these stalwart individuals as inspiration for addressing the critical issues facing our communities today.

As part of "Opening Doors," the University recognized 40 outstanding "Pioneers" whose lives epitomize the principles that were so crystallized by the events of June 11, 1963.