On Feb. 25, 2025, the Heersink School of Medicine held its annual Scholarship Dinner at the UAB Hilton Hamilton Ballroom. Donors, medical students, and faculty gathered to celebrate the generosity that supports future physicians and enhances the medical community. Key speakers highlighted the school's recent achievements and expressed gratitude to those who helped foster them.
During her speech, Christina Grabowski, Ph.D., associate professor of Medical Education and associate dean for Admissions and Enrollment Management, welcomed guests to the event and emphasized the importance of scholarships for medical students.
“Scholarships give students added confidence and show them they have someone in their corner who believes they have what it takes to become a physician,” Grabowski said. “Your generosity goes beyond financial support; it provides a gift of time and peace of mind.”
Scholarships significantly alleviate the financial burdens of medical education, which can exceed $200,000 in student debt. This financial relief allows students to focus on their academic and clinical training, enhancing performance and confidence.
Anupum Agarwal, M.D., dean of Heersink School of Medicine, announced an ambitious goal to increase the percentage of students receiving scholarship support from 27 percent to 50 percent over the next five years.
“Wouldn’t it be great if we could defray the cost of medical school for all our students?” Agarwal said. “Over the next five years, our philanthropic efforts will aim to move the needle closer to providing some scholarship support for 50 percent of our students.”
How scholarships make a difference
Several scholarship recipients were invited to speak at the dinner. Cara Parker, a student in the UAB Rural Medicine program, graciously spoke about her experience at UAB and how scholarships can make a difference.
“Receiving this scholarship alleviated financial stress, allowing me to focus more on my studies and clinical experiences rather than worrying about tuition,” Parker said. “This financial support has allowed me to engage fully in my education and seek out additional learning opportunities that have enriched my medical knowledge.”
From Sand Rock, Alabama, Parker hopes to fulfill wellness needs within rural communities after graduation. She says this scholarship has boosted her confidence in reaching her goals and reaffirmed her hard work and dedication to becoming a physician.
“It has also inspired me to give back to my community and future generations of medical students, knowing that opportunities like this can make a significant difference in someone’s ability to pursue their dreams,” Parker said.
She hopes that donors recognize that their support truly makes a big difference in student’s lives and that students like her wouldn’t be able to realize their career goals without them.
“It is not very likely I would be here at UAB Heersink School of Medicine without them,” Parker said. “Their support makes this possible for me and one day will bring the needed care for those in rural communities.”
To learn more about supporting medical scholarships and the Dean’s Office scholarship match, contact Erica Hollins at (205) 996-6839 or