Frequently Asked Questions
What does MASTHEAD stand for?
Media Alumni Seeking to Highlight Equity and Diversity
What is the purpose of MASTHEAD?
MASTHEAD seeks to advocate for diverse, anti-racist and equitable student media at the University of Alabama. The organization provides financial resources and professional mentorship to current student journalists in order to promote a more inclusive environment. To learn more you can view the organization’s full mission statement. You can also read about some of our recent initiatives such as our mentorship program and virutal speaker series.
MASTHEAD is a 501(c)(3) regsitered nonprofit with federal tax-empt status. Our EIN is 85-3248712
What is MASTHEAD doing to help Alice and Nineteen Fifty-Six?
The University of Alabama abruptly shuttered Nineteen Fifty-Six, a magazine celebrating Black student culture, and Alice, a magazine focused on women’s issues, on Dec. 1. Officials cited federal anti-diversity guidelines.
In response, MASTHEAD is raising $25,000 to publish print magazines created by the student journalists from Alice and Nineteen Fifty-Six in spring 2026. This money will cover printing costs, fund student salaries for both publications as well as miscellaneous workspace and equipment needs.
How do I donate?
You may donate using a credit card, Venmo or PayPal at our Givebutter. When you donate, you’ll be asked if you attended the University of Alabama--this is for our records only, and it is not a requirement to donate or engage with us. You will also be asked to cover a small convenience fee paid to Givebutter, our donation processing platform, and will be prompted to tip Givebutter. The latter is not required. Once you have donated, Givebutter will automatically issue a donation receipt to you via email. Please note when using Venmo on mobile: You must temporarily “link” your Venmo app to our Givebutter web page. This may require an additional step, which is as simple as refreshing the page once you’ve selected Venmo and returned to the donation page from the Venmo app.
How much should I donate?
Give whatever you’re able. If 250 people donate at least $100, we will be able to meet our goal.
Is MASTHEAD part of the University of Alabama?
MASTHEAD is an independent non-profit corporation registered in the state of Alabama as of September 2020. MASTHEAD operates independently of the University with its own board of directors and bank account.
Who is on the MASTHEAD board?
The MASTHEAD board of directors includes stakeholders from the following three categories
Seven University of Alabama alumni who were once involved in student media
Two student media leaders who serve as non-voting ex-officio members: (Nineteen Fifty-Six Editor-in-Chief) and (The Crimson White Editor-in-Chief)
Two UA faculty members
Read more about MASTHEAD’s board here.
If I donate to MASTHEAD, where does the money go?
MASTHEAD donations are processed using Givebutter, a free fundraising platform. The money is held in a bank account controlled by the board of directors. MASTHEAD will use the money raised to pay directly for printing costs of the magazines, web hosting, office space if necessary, and other operational expenses for the student publications. A small portion of donations will be used to pay for MASTHEAD’s operational expenses, such as web hosting and non-profit registration fees.
Who decides how MASTHEAD’s future funds are allocated?
The MASTHEAD board of directors holds a monthly meeting which will be used to determine funding priorities, in conjunction with the student media leaders who serve on the board.
Are members of MASTHEAD’s board being paid?
No. MASTHEAD is an entirely volunteer effort.
How can I help MASTHEAD’s mission beyond donating?
We are always looking for people to help with mentorship, alumni/digital outreach, and planning of our virtual and in-person events. If you’d like to help please email us at uamasthead@gmail.com.