Ten Heersink School of Medicine staff have been honored with the 2025 Dean’s Excellence Awards. Now in its third year, the Dean’s Excellence Awards for Staff recognize individuals who have made significant and meaningful contributions to the school’s mission through their work in education, service, and research.
This year’s recipients exemplify leadership, service, innovation, and collaboration. Much of their work happens behind the scenes, yet its impact is felt across departments, programs, and the broader UAB community. Their efforts have helped strengthen operations, support academic and clinical excellence, and foster a culture of integrity and teamwork.
“I am continually inspired by the caliber of staff we have at the Heersink School of Medicine,” said Anupam Agarwal, M.D., vice president of Medicine and dean. “Their professionalism, commitment to excellence, and care for our community are unmatched. These awardees represent the very best of who we are, and I am proud to celebrate their achievements.”
Their leadership and dedication serve as a model for excellence across UAB. Below, we highlight each awardee’s unique contributions and the impact they’ve made in their respective areas.
Congratulations to the 2025 Dean’s Excellence Awards for Staff honorees:
- Amy Dobelstein | Program Director, Department of Medicine
- Stacy Gaither | Research Director, Department of Pediatrics
- Regan Gaskin, MPA | Clinical Research Coordinator, Department of Neurosurgery
- Lindsey Hageman, MPH | Research Operations Administrator, Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship
- Liranda Howard | Senior Education Administrator, Department of Urology
- Mary McDougal, MPA | Executive Administrator, Department of Surgery
- Abigail Raczynski, MBA | Program Manager III, Department of Medicine
- Lauryn Schultz, MBA | Senior Administrator, Department of Medicine
- Stephanie Walters | Administrative Director, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Robert Witherspoon | Manager of Facilities and Standards, Heersink School of Medicine Dean's Office
Award recipients were presented with their awards and honored at a reception held in the Barbara and Edward Partridge Atrium of the Wallace Tumor Institute Lobby on Tuesday, September 30. Check back soon for photos from the evening.
Amy DobelsteinAmy Dobelstein, program director in the UAB Division of General Internal Medicine and Population Science, has been a vital member of the research staff at UAB for over 20 years.
Amy helps to lead an interdisciplinary research team, which often interacts with study participants. Her demeanor and care with participants, as well as her training for project staff, contribute to excellent study recruitment and retention. She serves as an excellent model for both new and experienced staff on how to engage with participants.
Recognizing her expertise and leadership, NIH and other research consortium members nominated Amy to co-chair critical committees focused on recruitment, retention, and intervention. These committees are typically chaired by faculty-level investigators, further underscoring Amy’s clear demonstration of excellence in her role. Several site PI’s and NIH staff shared how impressive Amy’s advanced knowledge and valuable insights were and how fortunate UAB was to have her contribute to our projects.
“Amy exemplifies the core mission of the school and goes beyond her assigned duties for the betterment of our team, our projects, and the overarching mission of the school,” said Gareth R. Dutton, Ph.D., professor and associate director of Research in the Division of General Internal Medicine and Population Science. “I can think of no one more deserving of this esteemed recognition.”
Stacy GaitherStacy Gaither, MSN, RN, program coordinator in the Department of Pediatrics, has been a nurse for over 30 years and has been with the Pediatric Simulation Center for over a decade.
Gaither began in the center as research director, where she quickly distinguished herself through exceptional organization, academic rigor, and dedication to quality. During her time in this role, she has contributed to more than 20 peer-reviewed manuscripts, over 30 conference presentations, and 10 funded grant projects totaling more than $390,000.
In 2016, Gaither became the program coordinator for the Children’s of Alabama Community Healthcare Education Simulation (COACHES) Program—a statewide outreach initiative that delivers pediatric emergency simulation training and readiness assessments to hospitals, clinics, and EMS providers. In this role, she coordinates visits, manages logistics, communicates with partners, facilitates simulations, and develops comprehensive readiness reports that drive improvement. Her work has had a lasting impact on pediatric preparedness across Alabama, particularly in underserved communities.
“Across every aspect of her work, Stacy models professionalism, dependability, and humility,” explains Chrystal Rutledge, M.D., associate professor in the Division of Pediatric Critical Care and co-director of the Pediatric Simulation Center. “She fosters a collaborative, inclusive environment and builds strong, respectful relationships with colleagues, learners, and community partners. Whether launching a study, coordinating outreach, or running a simulation, Stacy approaches every task with dedication and competence.”
“Stacy’s contributions span all three core mission areas—education, service, and research—and consistently exceed the expectations of her role,” said Nancy Tofil, M.D., professor in the Division of Pediatric Critical Care and co-director of the Pediatric Simulation Center. “Her versatility and leadership have strengthened our team and extended its reach across the state and beyond. We are proud to work alongside her and believe she exemplifies the very best of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine.”
Regan GaskinRegan Gaskin, MPA, began her role as clinical research coordinator in the Department of Neurosurgery Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery in January 2025. In her current role, she supports clinical trials for children with complex neurological conditions. In addition to coordinating study logistics, she works directly with families, mentors junior staff, improves protocol efficiency, and helps shape how research is conducted and experienced at UAB.
Her attention to regulatory compliance, data integrity, and patient-centered care helps elevate the quality and inclusivity of our research efforts. Her commitment to inclusive research practices is grounded in lived experience and public health training, and her leadership is consistently proactive and collaborative.
Outside her role in the department, she has co-founded the Alabama Food Fortification Initiative, which successfully led to the passage of a state law requiring folic acid fortification of corn masa flour, a significant public health milestone benefiting Hispanic and Latino communities. She mentors early career professionals in research, leads policy strategy efforts, and is pursuing a doctoral degree in Health Services Administration while working full time.
“Regan’s contributions are unmatched in their scope and significance,” said Brandy Nix, MBA, clinical research administrator in the Department of Neurosurgery. “She leads with humility and effectiveness, mentors generously, and brings visibility to communities often overlooked in clinical research. She is not only dependable and driven but also a catalyst for positive change across systems. Her excellence, both within and beyond her department, makes her an outstanding candidate for this award.”
Lindsey HagemanLindsey Hageman, MPH, serves as a research operations administrator for the Institute for Cancer Outcomes and Survivorship (ICOS). After graduating with a Master of Public Health degree in Epidemiology from UCLA, she joined City of Hope as a clinical research assistant in 2008. In 2014, she was promoted to clinical research administrator.
Upon her arrival at UAB in 2015, Hageman quickly joined ICOS. Her responsibilities include onboarding, training, and supervising the research staff, as well as ensuring that all research and faculty members are compliant with the regulatory requirements, both within UAB and nationally. She is responsible for reviewing, editing, and submitting research protocols to the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Additionally, Hageman works with investigators on the execution of their studies, including assisting in the development of the study databases and preparing analytical datasets. She has coauthored 68 peer-reviewed publications in major journals and has guided 185 research protocols through the IRB.
"I'm truly honored to receive this award, but I see it as a reflection of the incredible people that I get to work with every day,” said Hageman. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our research program, and to be in an environment that encourages growth, mentorship, and collaboration.”
“Lindsey exemplifies UAB’s core values daily,” said Smita Bhatia, M.D., MPH, director of ICOS. “Lindsey takes ownership and responsibility above and beyond the scope of her position, always making sure that ICOS research staff have the training and resources they need to support the needs of their PIs and projects. Although Lindsey holds all staff members to the highest of standards, she does so with caring and kindness, organizing all-inclusive lunches and social events throughout the year to welcome new team members and celebrate milestones, all the while solidifying team bonds. Simply put, ICOS would not survive, let alone thrive, without Lindsey.”
Liranda Howard“Thank you,” said Liranda Howard, education administrator senior in the Department of Urology. “Honestly, I’m taken aback by how emotional this recognition has made me. I do not usually react right away, but this award has touched me deeply. I am simply grateful to be recognized in this way. This recognition underscores the importance of supporting our residents, faculty, and program in ways that truly make a difference. I am proud to contribute to UAB’s mission of excellence in education, research, and patient care.”
Howard has dedicated more than 25 years of service to UAB, building a career defined by steady growth, adaptability, and transformative impact. She has played a transformative role in the Department of Urology, backed by these decades of service.
Howard began her UAB journey in 1997 as an office associate I in the Department of Medicine before moving to the Office of the Provost in 1998. In 2002, she advanced to an administrative support specialist role in the School of Dentistry, followed by a position as office associate II in the Office of Equity and Diversity in 2005. Two years later, she became a financial assistant in the Division of Gerontology, Geriatric, and Palliative Medicine, coordinating grant activities and faculty appointments. In 2013, Howard transitioned to the Department of Ophthalmology as an office associate II.
Her career came full circle in 2015 when she joined the Department of Urology as an administrative associate. From there, she steadily advanced—first as administrative supervisor, then as education administrator, and now as education administrator senior.
In her current role, Howard has played a pivotal role in departmental operations across various mission areas, including revitalizing and growing the department’s residency program and helping launch new fellowship and international observership programs. She has also helped significantly strengthen UAB Urology’s clinical care mission by modernizing recruitment processes, enhancing clinical training infrastructure, and championing physician well-being through initiatives that foster communication, morale, and a supportive work environment.
“Liranda is a cornerstone of our educational, clinical, and administrative infrastructure in the Department of Urology, and her consistent positive impact on our department and UAB over many years has been nothing short of transformative,” said Tom Chi, M.D., MBA, professor and chair of the Department of Urology and Howard’s nominator. “Everybody looks to her as a keeper of knowledge, a historian, and the voice of reason in all matters. Her ability to foster belonging, provide stability during times of leadership transition, and lead with empathy and consistency make her truly exceptional. She sets a standard for UAB that brings out the best of who we are. Staff like Liranda, who serve our teams with longevity and dedication, have a truly powerful imprint on shaping every aspect of who we are as a department. We are lucky and blessed to have Liranda on our team.”
Mary McDougalIn her role as executive administrator for the Department of Surgery, Mary McDougal, MPA, exemplifies excellence across the Heersink School of Medicine’s tripartite mission and consistently delivers a resounding impact for the department's dynamic operations and ever-evolving footprint in the larger Southeastern healthcare landscape.
With over half a decade of executive administration experience, McDougal manages all operational and administrative aspects of the Department of Surgery with over 700 faculty, staff, and trainees and an overall budget of over $69 million. She has been instrumental in advancing research infrastructure by supporting $8 million in annual grant funding—expanding clinical partnerships to improve access to surgical care in rural communities and elevating surgical education through robust faculty recruitment and program coordination.
McDougal’s contributions to the field of healthcare extend far beyond her formal role. She actively serves on several core committees, including the Heersink EA Advisory Committee, Heersink Budgetary Committee, Health Services Foundation Stewardship Committee, and the Compensation Design Principles Committee. She also collaborates nationally through the Association of Academic Surgical Administrators as a contributing member of their finance committee and a featured conference presenter on administrative best practices.
As echoed by her nominators, UAB Fay Fletcher Kerner Endowed Chair of Surgery Herbert Chen, M.D., and Division Director of UAB Vascular Surgery Adam Beck, M.D.: “Mary embodies the values this award seeks to honor—leadership, collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to the missions of Heersink School of Medicine. Her dedication, exemplary work, and steady ability to drive change have greatly impacted the Department of Surgery, those she works with, and UAB. She inspires those who work with her to excel and will leave a legacy of excellence for many years to come.”
Abigail RaczynskiAbigail Raczynski, MBA, currently serves as business manager for the Cardiorenal Section in the Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine in the Heersink School of Medicine.
Raczynski manages the section’s large research group, which includes nine faculty, five postdoctoral fellows, and several dozen graduate students, undergraduates, research staff, NIH grants, foundation grants, fellowships, and pilot awards covering up to 20 diverse types of grants with expert efficiency.
Additionally, she is a pro at navigating the complex scheduling of nephrology trainees who work across multiple labs throughout the year. This requires an ongoing effort in working with Human Resources, the Graduate School, and the Honors College, which Raczynski skillfully manages.
“When faced with a challenge, Abigail does not hesitate to respond to last-minute requests, take on problems that need a quick solution, or issues facing our many students and trainees,” said David Pollock, Ph.D., co-director of Cardiorenal Physiology and Medicine.
“Everyone in the section appreciates the fact that we are extremely fortunate to have someone with her outstanding skills working for our team,” said Jennifer S. Pollock, Ph.D. co-director of Cardiorenal Physiology and Medicine. “We honestly believe that a substantial portion of our success as a leading research program in the field of nephrology and hypertension can be credited to Abigail.”
Lauryn SchultzFor 25 years, Lauryn Schultz, MBA, has made remarkable contributions to UAB. She is the senior administrator for Clinical Affairs in the Department of Medicine, where she has played a pivotal role in driving clinical excellence, improving patient care, and fostering collaboration across UAB’s extensive clinical network.
“Lauryn has built strong, trusted relationships across UAB. Her honest approach to challenges is a hallmark of her work. She is a trusted partner in planning and executing clinical expansions,” said Elizabeth Turnipseed, M.D., vice chair for Clinical Affairs.
Schultz has implemented initiatives that improve access to care, establishing new clinical programs and ensuring high-quality patient outcomes.
“Her ability to coordinate complex operational tasks, from space needs to business plans, has allowed UAB’s clinical operations to flourish,” said Lisa Willett, M.D., Department of Medicine Executive vice chair.
“Lauryn’s honesty, diligence, and problem-solving ability are second to none. She always approaches challenges with an open mind and a willingness to learn, demonstrating an uncommon ability to adapt when needed,” said Shane Wiley, MBA, executive administrator.
Her work has had a direct and lasting impact on UAB’s clinical programs, and her influence continues to shape the future of healthcare delivery at UAB.
“We all rely on Lauryn to keep our clinical programs profitable, effective, and patient-focused, and we seek her wise counsel in all our clinical decisions,” said Mark Dransfield, M.D., Department of Medicine chair. “She truly deserves this recognition.”
Stephanie WaltersUAB Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) Administrative Director Stephanie Walters has been a steady, trusted presence in the department for over 20 years. Her impact spans across education, clinical care, and research support.
From leading residency recruitment and coordinating medical student rotations to managing complex faculty HR processes and space planning, Walters is involved in nearly every operational function that keeps the department moving forward.
“I am truly honored to receive a Dean's Excellence Award for Staff. This recognition reflects not only my efforts but also the support, collaboration, and inspiration I have received from my incredible colleagues in the Department of PM&R and across the UAB enterprise. I am grateful to be part of a community that values dedication and service,” adds Walters.
What sets Walters apart is how much she does beyond her formal responsibilities. She consistently goes the extra mile to foster a strong department culture. Whether it is organizing thoughtful going-away receptions, planning celebrations and department events, or making sure service milestones do not go unnoticed.
“Stephanie has a quiet but intentional way of making sure people are seen—whether it is a work anniversary, a farewell, or a milestone. That kind of recognition may seem small, but it builds a culture where people feel valued and want to stay. She reminds us that taking the time to acknowledge others really does matter,” UAB Department of PM&R Executive Administrator Jamie Elliott, MPA.
Walters’ commitment to our mission, her institutional knowledge, and her ability to support both people and systems make her a key reason the department runs as well as it does. She is a true advocate for the UAB community.
Robert WitherspoonRobert Witherspoon, manager of Facilities and Standards for the Heersink School of Medicine, has more than 25 years of facilities management and coordination experience across the school, which has allowed him to cultivate strong relationships throughout UAB. Known for his clear communication, steady follow-through, and calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations, he is a widely respected figure whose work is woven into much of Heersink’s operations.
“I am deeply honored and truly grateful to receive the Dean’s Excellence Award. This recognition means so much to me, and I know this would not have been possible without the support of my leadership team, who continually encourage and support me in my role, and the opportunity to work alongside my colleagues each day,” said Witherspoon. “I am grateful to be part of the Heersink Dean’s Office and to work in a collaborative environment where we all contribute to the success of the Heersink School of Medicine through research, educating future healthcare professionals, and providing the best possible health care for our patients.”
Since 2005, Witherspoon has worked on 42 major renovations and two new construction projects for the school. He currently serves as the building administrator for more than 18 buildings across the UAB campus and plays a key role in departmental relocations, including the recent ALGEN move. In addition to overseeing daily operations and maintenance, he manages emergency responses, security coordination, building signage, scheduling systems, and even the school’s warehouse of reusable furniture and equipment.
“He is known as someone who follows through—once a task is assigned to Robert, it gets done thoroughly, efficiently, and without the need for oversight,” said Kevin Bell, executive director of Project Management for Heersink, who nominated Witherspoon. “He is both a reliable team player and a trusted source of institutional knowledge.”
Witherspoon’s unwavering professionalism, collaborative spirit, and behind-the-scenes leadership make him a true asset to Heersink and UAB.