Lori Allison is a program manager for the Office of International Medical Education where she has served since 2024. Before her work for IME, she spent 27 years in Information Technology, holding roles in Project Management, Process Development, and Risk and Quality Management. She was nominated to the 2025-2026 cohort of Medical Education Unsung Heroes by Michael Massey, program director for IME.
As the head of the International Visiting Medical Student program (IVMS), she has brought a substantial change to its utilization of technology. “Lori has brought a dramatic change in how we process applications and work with students,” Massey said. “She navigated a change in technology for us that was needed. In just a year and a half, she’s provided a new voice and new perspective to our office.” Massey recalled how student applications were processed and screened manually prior to Allison’s involvement. When she stepped into the role, she utilized her background in IT to work with MEIS to automate the work, resulting in more efficient application screening and faster interview scheduling.
According to Massey, Allison and her team assist 20 IVMS students per month. When international students plan their U.S.-based credits, quicker response times from U.S. medical schools mean they can more effectively schedule their visits. Delays in the school’s application process can hinder their ability to complete necessary credits. Since Allison established the automated systems in the IVMS program, students have faced fewer logistical hurdles in selecting UAB Heersink School of Medicine, leading to an overall better experience while visiting the program.
Allison’s impact is not just felt on the student side of the program. Massey notes how she fosters progression and responsibility in her team. “She’s a wonderful colleague, and with her direct reports, she is intentional about their growth and potential. She gives them portions of the program to learn and develop their own management and leadership skills, building up the next generation of Medical Education leaders.”
Away from her duties in the International Visiting Medical Student program, Allison enjoys baking, experiencing the outdoors, and spending time with her family.