Except in cases where UA dictates an exception, we generally follow AP Style. For UA editorial guidelines, refer to the UA Style Guide. Additionally, full campus-wide branding information and messaging guidance can be found at brand.ua.edu.
Do not capitalize titles except for immediately preceding a name
Academic Honors: Do not italicize or capitalize cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude or with distinction.
Academic Degrees: Avoid abbreviations. When lack of space makes abbreviations necessary, do not use periods. (e.g., BA, MS, MBA) Formal names of degrees are capitalized, per AP style; informal names are not. Do not capitalize specializations or majors within degrees. Master of Science but master’s degree; Bachelor of Arts but bachelor’s degree. Refer to the complete list of degree names.
The word commencement should be lowercased per AP style.
On print or web:
On the first instance on any one piece, list it out like this:
The University of Alabama Student Center, or “the Stu”
Following that, any other instance can be shortened to “the Stu” if desired.
Social:
If the full student center name is on the calendar event details, if The University of Alabama’s social profile is tagged, or if the caption or a link provides the full name, then the name of the student center can be shortened to “the Stu” on a graphic.
When referring to the Student Life Department, use “University Recreation.” When referring to the main gym on campus that is operated by University Recreation, use “Student Recreation Center” on first use and “The Rec” afterwards.
