Following the Medical Education Committee (MEC) faculty retreat in May 2025, the committee has continued discussions relating to medical student experience. One current initiative focuses on how medical students face difficulties distinguishing themselves when applying for residency. To address this challenge, the MEC has recently approved the establishment of a Clinical Commendation designation for MS1–MS3 students.

Three students from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine’s Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), housed within the Physician Scientist Development Office (PSDO), recently earned first place in an international hackathon hosted by the Mission: Brain Foundation. Hazel Cho, Abdulraheem Kaimari, and Riyaz Razi competed in the three-day virtual event, which brought together more than 80 teams from more than 40 countries to develop practical solutions to challenges in neurosurgical care. Their project stood out for its innovation, clarity, and teamwork.

It is with heavy hearts that the Heersink School of Medicine mourns the passing of Latesha Elopre, M.D., MSPH. Latesha served in a multitude of roles at UAB since 2015 and made positive impacts throughout many areas of our institution. She is survived by her husband, Chris; two children, Jacob and Gabrielle "Gigi"; brother, Kenneth; and her mother, Glenda.

Research at UAB Heersink School of Medicine enhances future physicians' understanding of evidence-based medicine and critical thinking. Hands-on experiences prepare students to apply scientific discoveries to clinical practice, bridging the gap between research and patient care. Gelare Ghajar-Rahimi, a student in the MD/PhD program, exemplifies the commitment to research and mentorship emphasized by Heersink School of Medicine.

UAB Heersink School of Medicine is pleased to announce several new individuals joining the Department of Medical Education team. Four new staff members have started their roles since May, and a new staff member will join us at the end of June. The department also has a few members who are departing for other opportunities. Please join us in providing a warm welcome to these new additions and well wishes to those who have been pivotal to our team for many years.

Thirteen medical students from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine and one resident physician spent their Memorial Day serving runners and honoring fallen heroes during the 45th annual Cotton Row Run on Monday, May 26, 2025, in downtown Huntsville.

As the 2024–2025 Alabama Albert Schweitzer Fellowship draws to a close, seven UAB Heersink School of Medicine students—Andee Beierle, Caroline Davies, Ben Honan, Kavita Kantamneni, Salem Khalaf, Leanne D. Jeong, and Faris Zaibaq—are being recognized for completing their service years, spearheading projects that improved health and well-being across Alabama. Through hands-on work in education, advocacy, and access, these future physicians addressed pressing health care needs while developing leadership skills and experience with community engagement that will shape their medical careers.

At UAB Heersink School of Medicine, many work quietly behind the scenes to ensure medical students have the tools, support, and structure to succeed. One key figure is Kenneth Hurd—a technician turned educator whose influence shapes everything from high-stakes exams to hands-on electives. His blend of technical expertise and student-centered service makes him a trusted presence during one of the most demanding phases of a future physician’s journey.

On May 9, 2025, members of the Heersink School of Medicine Medical Education Committee (MEC) met for its annual retreat to discuss directions for the undergraduate medical education curriculum. The MEC’s primary responsibility is to plan and oversee the curriculum and the communication of curricular changes to wider faculty, student, and administrative audiences across Heersink’s four campuses and instructional sites. The presentations and organized discussions throughout the day facilitated the beginning of conversation around the future of undergraduate medical education.

Research at UAB Heersink School of Medicine gives medical students hands-on experience in investigative medicine, helping deepen their understanding of and develop solutions for health care access and accessibility.

On May 17, 2025, the UAB Heersink School of Medicine proudly celebrated the graduation of 183 medical students during its annual Commencement ceremony, held at Bartow Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.

At the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, more than 1,100 residents and fellows participate in graduate medical education through over 100 training programs—74 of which are exclusive to UAB in the state of Alabama. Representing the voices of these trainees is the House Staff Council (HSC), a body composed of residents and fellows from across all programs that serves as a vital bridge between learners and institutional leadership. 

The UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine recognized 15 faculty members for their outstanding contributions to research, education, and clinical care at the Spring 2025 Endowed Chairs and Professorships Reception.

Holden Thorp, Ph.D., editor-in-chief of Science, will deliver the keynote address at the UAB Heersink School of Medicine 2025 commencement ceremony.

In every medical school class, students stand out not only for their academic excellence but for their integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to uplifting those around them. For the UAB Heersink School of Medicine Class of 2025, James Stallworth is one such student. A four-time Class President and future urologist, Stallworth has shaped not only his own path but also the journey of his peers throughout his medical school years.

Commencement ceremonies connect today’s graduates to centuries of academic tradition. One of the most recognizable symbols is academic regalia—the cap, gown, and hood. At the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, these garments reflect pride in achievement and a longstanding commitment to academic excellence.

As part of the Office of Service Learning initiative, 24 MS1s recently provided in-person counseling at the Foundry and the Lovelady Center. This in-person activity marked a significant shift from previous years, allowing students to directly interact with individuals at these centers and gain firsthand experience in community health counseling.

At the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, research is more than academic enrichment—it’s a pathway to discovery, mentorship, and clinical clarity. For third-year medical student Maddie Bald, engaging in research has been a transformative experience that shaped her understanding of patient care and ultimately guided her toward a future in Otolaryngology.

Eight students from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine have been selected for the 2025-2026 class of Alabama Albert Schweitzer Fellows. These distinguished students are part of a broader cohort chosen from institutions across the state. Over the upcoming year, these fellows will dedicate themselves to implementing service projects aimed at addressing the social determinants that impact health outcomes in underserved communities.

The Office of Service Learning has announced the largest cohort of Health Equity Scholars (HES) in the program's history, with 15 medical students embarking on this transformative opportunity. The Health Equity Scholars Program aims to cultivate future physician leaders by equipping them with the skills needed to provide quality health care to communities with less resources.