Department Communications Director Marissa Keppely, MBA, will join the 2021-2022 Blaze Leadership Academy cohort.

Blaze Leadership Academy is the UAB Learning and Development Office’s flagship program for high potential faculty and staff. Designed to support leaders who wish to grow and contribute more to UAB, the program includes developmental assessments, opportunities to build relationships with colleagues across UAB, and learning experiences centered around UAB Shared Values and Leadership Expectations.

In order to be accepted into the program, potential participants must first be nominated by a senior leader. The candidate must champion experience, capability, potential, and a collaborative role, demonstrating a key interest in advancing at UAB and a commitment to growth and development opportunities.

Keppley has a long track record of blazing the trail at UAB.

Prior to joining the Department of Surgery Communications Office, Keppley worked in the UAB Health System Department of Marketing and Communications as the physician marketing manager, where she founded the nation’s first CME podcast for healthcare professionals.

In her role as communications director, Keppley has grown and supported the reputation of three departments through novel communications projects, including media relations, community partnerships, annual publications, and more.

Keppley looks forward to the training program.

“This program is a wonderful opportunity for personal growth that I will be able to bring back to the department,” said Keppley. “It is an honor to be accepted into the program, and I look forward to all that I will learn and experience with the Blazer Leadership Academy.”