T
he University of Alabama’s Culverhouse College of Business has renamed its real‑estate program after a generous donation from alumni Rance M. Sanders and his wife Angie L. Sanders of Vestavia Hills. The Rance M. Sanders Real Estate Program now includes a brand‑new undergraduate major, thanks to a $5 million gift that honors the couple’s commitment to student success.
Rance Sanders, president and CEO of The Sanders Trust, LLC—a healthcare real‑estate firm with properties in 30 states—explained the motivation behind the contribution: “We want to give students access to a high‑quality education and the best professors, while also providing hands‑on learning that hones real‑world skills. Many promising students face financial hurdles; our support can help them stay in school and thrive.” His 40‑year presence in the Birmingham real‑estate scene and pioneering work in national healthcare real estate underscore the depth of his experience.
Over the past five years, the college has seen a 300 % surge in students pursuing a real‑estate minor. The new major will train students to develop, purchase, sell, lease, appraise, and manage properties. The Sanders gift will expand practical learning opportunities, creating funding for:
* Annual real‑estate case competitions for students and advisors
* Live‑Work‑Play experiences that blend academic and professional exposure
* Annual conference attendance for students and faculty
The Sanders have long supported Culverhouse. Since 2007, the Rance M. Sanders Endowed Real Estate Scholarship has awarded approximately $7,500 to up to six students each academic year. Kay Palan, dean of the college, noted that “Rance learned the value of preparation, perseverance, and showing up at Alabama. Those lessons guided him through law school, business, and a purposeful life. Today, he and Angie give back in a way that reflects their belief in education’s power.”
Rance Sanders also serves on the University of Alabama’s President’s Cabinet and sits on the board of the 1831 Foundation, further linking his philanthropic efforts to the university’s broader mission.
