UAB Ray Watts officially took over as chairman of the Birmingham Business Alliance this week.

This time last year, the decision to appoint Watts as chairman was met with heavy criticism, from UAB football supporters to the Birmingham City Council, which helps fund the alliance. At least one local business considered leaving the Alliance. City Council members publicly derided the decision, calling it a slap in the face.

Watts, who became UAB's President in 2013, was one of the most controversial names in Birmingham at the time of the appointment because of his now-reversed decision to end UAB's football program.

Now, though, Watts is working with Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex to give Blazer football a more permanent home.

A nominations committee from the group's executive committee recommended Watts to the full board. The vote was unanimous.

Watts will serve as chairman for 2016. He's taking over for Alabama Power President and CEO Mark Crosswhite, who was chairman for 2015.