Mini Medical School
Youth Advisory Board Service Project Central Alabama
On Saturday, March 8, members of the Central Alabama Youth Advisory Board (YAB) volunteered at HUB Worldwide, a local nonprofit that diverts surplus medical supplies from landfills to individuals and organizations in need. YAB members helped organize the HUB warehouse, gaining first hand insight into the scope of products the organization distributes.
Equally as important as the hands-on work was hearing from HUB staff about how they source and distribute products to communities ranging from the mountains of Ecuador to rural clinics in Alabama to flood-stricken areas of North Carolina. Inspired by these stories, some YAB members made plans for future service at the HUB.
Youth Advisory Board Service Project Black Belt Region
The UAB Pediatric Pandemic Hub’s eighth Adolescent Medicine Youth Advisory Board meeting in Wilcox County for the 2024-2025 term was a success. Jasmine S. Kennedy, clinical research coordinator II and PPN YAB facilitator, led an interactive activity focused on a service project centered on mental health and social-emotional resilience.
Students designed a flyer conveying their message, featuring a QR code linked to a self-designed interactive app conceptualized as a "virtual diary." They also developed questions for the Daily Feelings Journal Form. The app can be added to a home screen.
MCH Hopes
Maternal Child Health HOPES participants from Jackson-Olin, Parker, and Carver high schools took part in simulation exercises at Children's of Alabama under the leadership of Dr. Chrystal Rutledge and the hospital’s simulation team.
Students performed simulations in hyponatremic seizures, coding, anaphylaxis, respiratory issues, and suturing. Marsha Sutton Kelly, MPA, clinical research manager, facilitated the group.
PARCA Annual Forum
The 2025 Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama (PARCA) held its annual forum on Friday, March 7, at the Harbert Center, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, nonprofit executives, educators, and mental health professionals to address mental health challenges in schools and the workforce.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey delivered the keynote address. Children’s of Alabama’s Lou Lacey spoke on “Where Do We Go From Here?” Attendees included Lonnie Pressley, MPH, MSEM, PPN director; Jasmine Kennedy, MA, clinical research coordinator II; and Katy Smith, MPA, educational liaison.
Blood Drive
The Pediatric Pandemic Network partnered with Children’s of Alabama and the Red Cross for a March blood drive. Free A1C testing was available, and donors received a $10 Amazon gift card. Special thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Baker, Dr. Mark Baker, Lonnie Pressley, and Marsha Kelly Sutton for their participation.
Reality Check
Marsha Kelly-Sutton, program manager for UAB Medicine, staffed the “Life Happens” table for the Reality Check program at Ramsay High School on March 18, 2025. Approximately 120 students in 10th through 12th grade participated. While some were satisfied with their outcomes, others faced financial challenges. The event was engaging, and many students realized the importance of adaptability in navigating life’s uncertainties.