In this installment of Unified in Pride, we are highlighting a sample of the significant programs and initiatives committed to strengthening LGBTQ+ inclusivity at the School of Medicine and UAB at-large.

In the fall of 2020, James Harris, MS3, was compelled by the uncertainties of the pandemic to find ways to help homeless populations in Birmingham. He started Run 2 Rebuild, an organization that provides a support network, motivation, and physical fitness education to the men of Jimmie Hale Mission.

For Pride Month this June, the School of Medicine is showcasing the exceptional voices, programs, patient care, and research committed to improving the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community. To begin, Stephanie Perry, M.A., practice manager in the Department of Pediatrics, shares her story and discusses diversity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ individuals at UAB.

Candace Adedokun, M.D., is the president and founder of Dynamic Health—an organization committed to improving the health of individuals through personalized coaching and providing education to future physicians.

The School of Medicine is proud to announce the establishment of the UAB School of Medicine Immunology Institute, a cutting-edge and interdisciplinary hub for scientists who seek to advance the study of immunology and improve human health through immune-based therapies including vaccines.

For our final AAPI Heritage Month installment, Nabiha Yusuf, Ph.D., MSPH, associate professor in the Department of Dermatology, discusses her lineage, her values of equality, and why UAB’s emphasis on diversity is rewarding in her career.

The School of Medicine communications staff sat down with Dr. Niederweis to gain insights about his research, UAB, and the science community.

Eighteen outstanding faculty members have been named winners of the 2021 Dean’s Excellence Awards in the areas of teaching, research, service, mentorship, and diversity.

Michele Kong, M.D., professor in the Department of Pediatrics, shares her experiences as an AAPI woman, discusses how to be a better ally, and explains what it means to create safe spaces at an institution for Part 3 of the School of Medicine’s AAPI Heritage series.

Etty (Tika) Benveniste, Ph.D., senior vice dean for Research in the School of Medicine, has been named chair-elect of AAMC’s Group on Research Advancement and Development (GRAND)—an AAMC Affinity Group that provides opportunities for leadership development, networking, and collaboration opportunities.