Augusta University Released Bell Tower Blonde Ale

The school partnered with a local brewer to launch a new beer supporting student-athlete scholarships.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Beer

Bold vector editorial illustration of a glass of golden craft beer on a wooden surface with stylized brick architecture in the background. — Augusta University has partnered with Savannah River Brewing Co. to launch a new blonde ale, with sales supporting student-athlete scholarships. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Augusta University has introduced the Bell Tower Blonde Ale, a new craft beer created in partnership with Savannah River Brewing Co. Proceeds from sales of the ale will directly fund student-athlete scholarships at the university.

Why it matters

The collaboration provides the university with a creative new revenue stream to bolster its athletic programs. By leveraging local partnerships, the school aims to engage the community while securing financial support for its student-athletes.

The new ale contains 5.3% alcohol by volume and arrives following a two-year product development process. The beer features branding with the school's bell tower design in blue and grey colors.

The players

Augusta University

This is a public research university located in Augusta, Georgia, that oversees the Augusta Jaguars athletic program.

Savannah River Brewing Co.

This is a local brewery based in Augusta that partnered with the university to manufacture the custom blonde ale.

Sergio Gallardo

He served as the Creative Director who designed the custom tap handles for the beer.

The details

Developed over two years, the project included custom tap handles crafted by Creative Director Sergio Gallardo. The beer made its official debut at the Brew-N-Que event and is slated for availability at select Augusta Jaguars home games.

Fall 2026: Bell Tower Blonde Ale hit local taps and store shelves.

Culture Shift

This release aligns with the broader collegiate co-branded craft beer trend, where universities seek novel ways to monetize their brand identity. It marks a departure from traditional merchandising, moving into the experiential local food and beverage market.

Residents and sports fans can find the new ale on tap and at select Augusta Jaguars home games throughout the season. Purchasing the product serves as a direct way to support student-athlete scholarships in the local community.

The takeaway

Consumers can now support university athletics through local retail purchases of the new branded blonde ale. This partnership highlights how institutions are increasingly turning to community-based collaborations to fund academic and sports initiatives.