Founded in September 2021, the overarching goal of the Mary Heersink Institute for Global Health is to improve overall health and well-being and promote equity in health outcomes among people around the world.

The institute aims to establish a coordinated, comprehensive, and sustainable infrastructure for the Heersink School of Medicine, UAB, and international partners. This infrastructure will foster educational opportunities, facilitate high-quality biomedical research, and provide multidirectional services, capacity building, and mutual support to address pressing global health challenges. Success relies on transdisciplinary collaboration with other schools and disciplines engaged in global health.

2021 Open House

The Mary Heersink Institute for Global Health held a virtual open house to introduce the institute on Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. Selwyn M. Vickers, M.D., FACS, former dean of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, CEO of the UAB Health System, and CEO of the UAB/Ascension St. Vincent’s Alliance presented opening remarks. Alan Tita, M.D., Ph.D., senior associate dean of Global and Women’s Health and director of the Mary Heersink Institute for Global Health, discussed the institute’s background, mission, and goals, which include education, service, research, clinical, and capacity building.

Vision

Healthy People. Healthy Lives. Around the World.

Mission

To solve the most pressing global health challenges and promote healthy lives through the provision of education and mentorship, enabling scientific research, and enhancing service delivery through capacity building using bidirectional partnerships embedded in genuine collaboration, innovation, and trust.

Values

Integrity, Mutual Respect, Collaboration, Excellence/Innovation, Stewardship, and Accountability.