by Emma Shepard
Eric Ford, Ph.D., professor in the School of Public Health and chair of the UAB Faculty SenateThe UAB SUCCESS Initiative has named its first Student SUCCESS Champion: Eric Ford, Ph.D., professor in the School of Public Health and chair of the UAB Faculty Senate.
Launched in 2024, the SUCCESS Initiative stands for “Strategic and Unifying Campus Collaboration that Empowers Students to Succeed.” SUCCESS aims to address the challenging enrollment environment and transform student support. It seeks not only to increase enrollment, but also to increase the success of students throughout their time at UAB and beyond.
Each quarter, the SUCCESS Initiative executive steering committee will select a Student SUCCESS Champion — from among faculty and staff — who goes above and beyond in shaping the student experience at UAB.
“As Faculty Senate chair, Dr. Ford has been instrumental in engaging others in the mission of SUCCESS,” said Janet Woodruff-Borden, Ph.D., senior vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. “Dr. Ford creatively uses his passions to support current and prospective students through working to improving policies, partnering in innovative approaches to recruitment and student success, and coordinating events like Faculty Call Night. He is a wonderful example of what it means to be a Student SUCCESS Champion.”
Woodruff-Borden added that Ford “is a great reminder to us that every one of us is important to the student experience.” The SUCCESS Initiative, she said, “is about a transformative change that will require us to think differently about how we partner together across the institution to support the student life cycle, and I am thankful to Dr. Ford for championing the cause.”
We sat down with Ford to learn more about his support of the UAB student experience.
How is the Faculty Senate supporting the SUCCESS Initiative?
“The Faculty Senate plays a crucial role in fostering student success by ensuring that policies, programs and faculty efforts align with student needs. One of our key initiatives has been our Faculty Call Night, when faculty personally reach out to students. Additionally, we have been working on improving faculty advising, advocating for mental health and wellness support, and pushing for policies that enhance student retention and success.”
How do you think student recruitment and on-campus success are tied together?
“Recruitment is just the beginning of a student’s journey, but retention and success determine their ultimate outcome. A well-supported student — one who has access to strong academic advising, engaged faculty and a sense of belonging — will be more likely to persist and thrive. If students feel connected to their university, both socially and academically, they are more likely to stay and succeed, which in turn strengthens UAB’s reputation and future recruitment efforts.”
What roles do faculty play in student recruitment and experience?
“Faculty are often the first point of sustained engagement for students, making them key to both recruitment and retention. A prospective student who hears about a passionate and supportive faculty member may be more inclined to choose UAB, while current students who feel seen and supported in their academic journey are more likely to persist. Faculty also contribute by mentoring students, engaging in experiential learning initiatives, and fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment.”
What do you think are some keys to student recruitment and success?
“There is no single solution, but a combination of factors plays a role:
- Scholarships & Financial Support: Many students face financial barriers that impact their ability to persist. Expanding need- and merit-based scholarships could make a significant difference.
- On-Campus Programming & Engagement: Creating more opportunities for students to connect with faculty, peers and professional networks strengthens their commitment to UAB.
- Faculty-Student Engagement: Whether through research opportunities, mentorship or outreach efforts, faculty engagement helps students feel more connected to the institution.
- Clear Pathways to Career Success: Students want to know that their time at UAB will translate into real-world opportunities. Strengthening career readiness programs, internships and industry partnerships is key.”
How can every person on UAB’s campus become a Student SUCCESS Champion? Why does it take everyone?
“Student success isn’t just about academics — it’s about feeling supported at every touchpoint. From advisors and faculty to administrative staff and even Facilities teams, every person a student interacts with can contribute to their experience. A culture that prioritizes responsiveness, care and student-centered service will ultimately drive higher retention and satisfaction.”
What possibilities are you most passionate about when it comes to shaping the student experience here at UAB?
“I’m most passionate about removing barriers to student success — whether that’s through better advising, financial support or improving faculty-student engagement. I also believe that faculty have a responsibility to make UAB an institution where students feel supported, challenged and prepared for their futures. If we continue to foster innovation in student support and engagement, we can position UAB as a leader in student success.”