On April 12, 2025, at the 2025 Celebration of Service, the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship (ASF) of Alabama honored Dr. Janene Sims of the UAB School of Optometry and Dr. Ronald Bayles of the Titusville Development Corporation with the 2025 Outstanding Academic Mentor and Outstanding Community Site Mentor awards, respectively.

These awards, sponsored by the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS), celebrate the significant contributions of these mentors to the ASF and their mentees. Clifford Kennon, EdS, MPA, CPP, Director of the CCTS Community Engagement Institute, was on hand to present the awards in recognition of their dedication and impact. Kennon, who collaboratively leads engagement of community efforts at the CCTS through initiatives that foster dialogue and partnership across academic and community sectors, reflected on the value of mentorship:

"The CCTS is committed to building stronger partnerships between researchers and the communities they serve. Recognizing mentors like Dr. Sims and Dr. Bayles is one way we celebrate the individuals who make these partnerships thrive. Their commitment to guidance, service, and collaboration is exactly what our region needs to support health for all and community-driven solutions".

The awards underscore the collaboration between academic institutions and community organizations, which is foundational to both the CCTS’s and ASF’s mission. This partnership supports a culture of service and leadership among healthcare professionals, with a direct impact on improving health outcomes across Alabama. Through sponsored recognition, and by offering structured opportunities for discussion and skill-building around mentoring practices, the CCTS reinforces its commitment to fostering strong, effective mentorship across all stages of the research career path.

This support not only furthers the CCTS’s mission but also strengthens the broader community it serves by investing in the development of future translational scientists.

Make sure you are subscribed to the weekly CCTS Digest and following the CCTS on LinkedIn to stay informed of all upcoming CCTS news and events. See pictures from the event in the gallery below.