Continuing the Legacy of a UAB Icon

The University of Alabama Medical Alumni Association Raises Funds for Tinsley Harrison Chair

Tinsley Harrison

The Dr. Tinsley R. Harrison Endowed Professorship in Medical Resident Education recognizes Harrison’s passion for teaching and mentoring residents during his tenure at the School of Medicine. Along with a committee from The University of Alabama Medical Alumni Association (MAA), Albert J. Tully Jr., M.D., past president of the MAA and chair of the Tinsley Harrison fund-raising initiative, spearheaded the campaign to fund the professorship. He and the committee have plans to convert it to an endowed chair once adequate funds have been raised.

“This is a fitting tribute to a pioneer in academic medicine who was integral to UAB’s success,” Tully says. “His contributions to the advancement of medical education have enhanced countless lives of students, faculty, and patients around the nation and indeed the globe.”

Harrison, who passed away in 1978, is a native Alabamian whose father was a physician. He decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in medicine, and today he is considered by many to be the most famous physician from Alabama. His distinguished career spanned more than 40 years, including 15 as a faculty member in the School of Medicine. Harrison served as professor and chair of the Department of Medicine, as acting dean of the Medical College of Alabama, and as director of the Division of Cardiology.

Harrison was the recipient of many honors during his medical career and was a member of many distinguished medical organizations. He also was instrumental in organizing the American Heart Association and served as its first president. In 1950, Harrison authored Principles of Internal Medicine, which was covered in Time magazine for its innovative approach to medical education and which today remains one of the leading textbooks for internal medicine students and residents.

Harrison was an inspirational doctor and teacher whose love of learning and ability to inspire his students is carried on by generations of physicians who were touched by his compassion and enthusiasm.