Following the departure of Kristi Eatmon, who joins Legacy of Hope, the UAB Department of Surgery Research Administration Office is pleased to announce the promotions of LaShante' Drakes as program manager II and Chris Whisenhunt to program director III.

Drakes is a UAB alum and graduate of Miles Law School. In her new role, she will oversee the submission process for the department in seeking research grants and extramural awards. 

Whisenhunt holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration. In his new position, Whisenhunt’s primary responsibilities; include directing the administrative and fiscal affairs of the Research Administration office. 

Whisenhunt has been at UAB for 17 years, working various positions as an accountant, financial officer II, and grants and contracts officer. The last six years, he has worked as the program manager II and financial officer III in the Department of Surgery Research Administration Office, managing awarded grants and contracts process. 

Whisenhunt is extremely excited for the opportunity to lead the Research Administration team and looks forward to continue building on the solid, established foundation.