UAB community,

The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s presence in the city of Birmingham is vital for the city’s healthcare, education, research, economic growth, and community well-being. UAB educates nearly 21,000 students and is committed to developing a skilled workforce that benefits the local economy and prepares the next generation of leaders. UAB is home to one of the largest academic medical centers in the country and the UAB Health System provides top-tier access and quality for Birmingham residents. UAB conducts transformative research that improves health, quality of life, and economic development. This research drives innovation and attracts investment to the city. UAB is a significant economic driver in Birmingham, contributing to job creation and economic growth.

For years, UAB has actively engaged with the Birmingham community through dozens of community partnerships and community development initiatives. The University’s strategic plan includes community engagement as one of its four pillars, and in recent years, UAB’s academic enterprise has become increasingly involved in leveraging the relationships with our unique and historic city as part of the development and deployment of high-impact educational practices that contribute to student learning.

In recognition of the important role UAB holds in the city of Birmingham, and the powerful learning that can occur as students engage with their community, we have selected The City Is Our Classroom as the theme of the 2025-2030 Quality Enhancement Plan.

Through high-impact curricular and co-curricular practices that include community based learning, research, and service opportunities, the Quality Enhancement Plan will help UAB students engage with their community. They will come to better understand the value of the University as a part of the city of Birmingham and will develop the skills to become engaged members and leaders of any community.

Sincerely,

UAB’s 2025-2030 Quality Enhancement Plan, The City Is Our Classroom