Innovative Teaching and Academic Engagement
The offices of Innovative Teaching and Academic Engagement are committed to fostering an environment where exceptional teachers and high-impact educational experiences come together to inspire and empower our students. Under the direction of Vice Provost Scott L. Phillips, Ph.D., we focus on developing teaching excellence, supporting high-impact educational practices, and leading key academic initiatives for UAB’s colleges and schools.
Teaching Excellence
By prioritizing teaching excellence, we ensure that our students are not only well-prepared for their careers but also equipped with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. The Center for Teaching and Learning, including the Offices of Learning Technologies and Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning, ensures that faculty members have the training and tools they need to be their most dynamic and successful.
High-Impact Practices
High-impact educational practices are designed to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes and are the cornerstone of educational excellence and student success. Research has shown that these practices significantly benefit students by promoting deeper learning and personal growth. The offices of the Blazer Core Curriculum, Service Learning and Undergraduate Research, National and International Fellowships, the University Writing Center, and Army ROTC support faculty and students as they engage in high-impact practices across the UAB academic enterprise.
Academic Initiatives
The Innovative Teaching offices also lead several key academic initiatives. These include directing UAB’s Quality Enhancement Plan, coordinating academic market analysis through Hanover Research, and overseeing commencement exercises.
Student success is our top priority, and as we develop and support UAB’s exceptional faculty, assist UAB’s schools in developing effective academic programs, and provide outstanding learning opportunities, our students thrive in a rewarding academic environment.
The Team

Scott L. Phillips

Amy Hutson Chatham
Director, Center for Teaching and Learning, Assistant Professor, Environmental Health Sciences, Director, UAB-AmeriCorps VISTA Statewide Program
205-996-7179

Michelle Cook
Director, Office of National and International Fellowships and Scholarships
205-996-4270

Gareth Jones
Director, Office of Service Learning and Undergraduate Research
205-996-7786

Christopher Minnix
Director, Blazer Core Curriculum
205-934-7121

Jaclyn Wells
Director, University Writing Center
205-996-7179

LTC Jamaine J. Williams
Professor of Military Science, Army ROTC
205-934-8746

Vacant

Vacant
Director, Office of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning