Ten staff members of the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine have been named recipients of the 2026 Dean’s Excellence Awards for Staff. Now in its fourth year, the award recognizes staff who go beyond the expectations of their roles to advance Heersink’s core missions of education, clinical care, and research.
This year’s honorees represent departments across the school, from clinical and basic science to medical education. Nominated by their peers and colleagues, they strengthen teams, support learners, and move the school’s mission forward every day, often behind the scenes.
“Our mission to advance patient care, biomedical research, and medical education depends on talented staff members who keep our operations running, support groundbreaking discoveries, and create an exceptional environment for learners, faculty, and patients,” said Anupam Agarwal, M.D., senior vice president for Medicine and dean of the Heersink School of Medicine. “Through their expertise, dedication, and commitment to service, our staff help make Heersink one of the nation's leading academic medical centers.”
Honorees were recognized at a reception Oct. 20 in the Heersink Conference Center.
Congratulations to the 2026 Dean’s Excellence Awards for Staff honorees:
Emily Harley, Department of Family and Community Medicine
Chelsi Reynolds, Department of Family and Community Medicine
Elizabeth Rahn, Ph.D., Department of Medical Education
Jennifer Wilson, Department of Medicine
Elizabeth Dye, Department of Medicine
Audrey Coachman, Department of Neurobiology
Shirley Gibbs, Department of Neurology
Nancy Saxon, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Fatima Igdoura, MBA, Department of Pathology
Shannon Stephens, Department of Surgery
Emily Harley
Director of Communications
Department of Family and Community Medicine
Emily Harley joined UAB in December 2023 as communications director for the Department of Family and Community Medicine. She enthusiastically tackled her new duties, delivering early results and making an immediate impact. As she familiarized herself with the inner workings of UAB, its policies and procedures, she simultaneously cultivated meaningful relationships with faculty and staff. Regardless of who walked through the communications office door, Harley was on her feet, greeting them with a warm smile, a handshake, and an offer to assist.
“Though her title is communications director, her influence extends far beyond communications,” said Family and Community Medicine Executive Administrator Fred Horton. “She is a trusted member of our departmental leadership team, a strategic advisor, an outstanding leader of people, and an innovative partner who has helped shape the growth and visibility of one of the school's fastest-growing departments.”
While strengthening collaboration across departments, disciplines, and communities throughout Alabama, Harley consistently works to advance Family and Community Medicine’s missions in education, research, and service. She oversees the development of content and resource materials that enable faculty, learners, and institutional leaders to communicate complex ideas with clarity and consistency. Additionally, Harley developed transformative methods to disseminate and convey the department’s educational mission. She also elevated the visibility of the department’s research enterprise, broadening its impact.
Perhaps most importantly, Harley consistently volunteers for additional responsibilities because she believes in the mission. Whether preparing executive presentations late into the evening, supporting major institutional events, mentoring colleagues, or stepping into projects outside her formal responsibilities, she does so with enthusiasm, professionalism, and unwavering positivity.
Chelsi Reynolds
Clinical Research Coordinator II
Department of Family and Community Medicine
Chelsi Reynolds, clinical research coordinator II in the Department of Family and Community Medicine, is helping to create a healthier Alabama through her expertise in clinical research coordination, participant engagement, and lifestyle medicine programming in the Fitness, Lifestyle, and Optimal Wellness (FLOW) Clinic and the Healthy Living Lab of Drew Sayer, Ph.D.
With nine years of experience supporting complex clinical studies, Reynolds plays a vital role in advancing research focused on nutrition, physical activity, weight management, metabolic health, and preventive care. In addition to the daily operations that sustain these trials, Reynolds manages timelines, partnerships, and protocols. She also shines as the primary contact for participants, building trust and helping strengthen participant engagement and retention.
“She works well across roles and helps connect the efforts of clinicians, researchers, staff, and participants. This kind of behind-the-scenes work is often easy to overlook, but it is essential to developing sustainable programs that serve patients,” said Drew Sayer, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine and head of the Healthy Living Lab. “She is a skilled and trusted staff member whose work has strengthened our lab, our department, and the broader mission of the Heersink School of Medicine.”
Reynolds says she is honored and humbled to receive the Dean’s Excellence Award. “Every study we manage, every data point we collect, and every counseling session we lead represents a real person striving for a better, healthier life. I share this honor with our amazing participants, whose commitment inspires me daily, and with Dr. Sayer and my brilliant colleagues, who foster an environment of true collaboration and excellence,” said Reynolds. “This award fuels my passion to keep bridging the gap between clinical research and practical, life-changing wellness strategies for the people who need them most."
Elizabeth Rahn, Ph.D.
Executive Director of Operations and Quality Improvement
Department of Medical Education
Elizabeth Rahn, Ph.D., executive director for Operations and Quality Improvement, has been a crucial member of the Department of Medical Education in Heersink School of Medicine since 2022.
Rahn oversees the department’s key administrative areas, including communication, development, facilities, financial, and HR functions. Her work in these areas has contributed to the effective education of Heersink students and the development of its faculty and staff. She has also been pivotal to evaluating and ensuring alignment with accreditation standards.
Exemplifying her impact on the department, Rahn exhibits creative and responsible fiscal management, enabling the creation of new positions and programs in direct response to school needs. She has helped medical education initiatives and organizations find financial solutions during challenging times, including student researchers, Equal Access Birmingham, and Compassion Closet.
Rahn’s leadership has perhaps been most evident in the creation and improvement of physical infrastructure, allowing the medical school to grow and thrive. Renovation projects throughout Volker Hall have been necessary to maximize student learning and meet accreditation standards. She supervised the construction of Volker Hall’s new atrium, its state-of-the-art Active Learning Center, as well as renovations to the basement, lecture tower, and the majority of the first, second, fourth, and fifth floors. These projects have contributed to a better learning environment for students and a better working environment for department faculty and staff.
“Liz is a true leader within the Department of Medical Education, in both education and service,” said Craig Hoesley, M.D., senior associate dean for Medical Education. “Her tireless work and dedication to our mission have led to the vibrant, innovative, accredited, and safe medical school we have today. It would be hard to think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”
Jennifer Wilson
Division Administrator III
Division of Infectious Diseases
Department of Medicine
Jennifer Wilson serves as the division administrator for the Division of Infectious Diseases (ID) and has been instrumental in advancing its strategic initiatives. In her role, she plays a key part in expanding inpatient and outpatient services, facilitating important recruitment, supporting the research and education programs in ID, and driving growth in alignment with the Department of Medicine and UAB Medicine. Her leadership in financial management has also been particularly noteworthy as she oversees a robust research, education, and clinical budget.
“Jennifer Wilson has provided exceptional leadership and service in the field of infectious diseases for the Department of Medicine at UAB for more than three decades, making major contributions to research, clinical, educational, and administrative missions,” said Martin Rodriguez, M.D., professor and division director. “Through her innovation, professionalism, institutional knowledge, and commitment to excellence, Jennifer has had a transformative impact on the division and the broader institution.”
Her strategic approach to financial management and contract negotiation has been pivotal in advancing clinical services and supporting faculty compensation plans, and her leadership has supported significant growth in HIV care, STI prevention initiatives, and quality improvement efforts. She has also been a strong supporter in the division’s educational efforts. Beyond her operational accomplishments, Wilson is also recognized as a mentor, collaborator, and advocate for all division team members and others in the Department of Medicine.
“This honor is a reflection of the remarkable people in the division and department and the important work we support every day,” Wilson said. “I’ve said many times that the people I work with are a true gift in my life, as is this position. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and the opportunities I have had all these years to be a part of such a special organization.”
Elizabeth Dye
Scientist III
Department of Medicine
Elizabeth Dye is a clinical research scientist in the Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology. Dye serves as the subject matter expert for faculty and staff regarding administrative and clinical responsibilities related to clinical research and is fondly referred to as the “eyes and ears” of the division’s research enterprise.
“I am truly honored to have been nominated for the Dean’s Excellence Award for Staff and even more so to have been selected,” she said. “I am very appreciative of my leadership team in the Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology for their consistent support. I am also grateful to work alongside so many talented and dedicated individuals who have taught me so much throughout my career at UAB.”
No project is too complex for Dye, who presently maintains oversight of a grant that involves more than 2,000 participants spread across 23 sites. Her knowledge is often sought from those beyond the division—and beyond UAB as she collaborates with partner institutions nationwide.
Dye also leads a team of more than a dozen research personnel, assigning each to projects based on their unique skills. Before transitioning to research leadership, Dye cared for patients with rheumatic diseases as a nurse practitioner in The Kirklin Clinic.
“To say that Elizabeth Dye is a jack of all trades is not at all an overstatement,” said Kenneth Saag, M.D., director of the Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology. “The breadth and depth of her skill set is remarkable. Even beyond her many organizational and program direction exceptional talents, it is her extremely positive attitude and can-do work ethic that makes her a true gem in clinical research operation and a uniquely valuable UAB employee.”
Audrey Coachman, MHA
Program Director II
Department of Neurobiology
Audrey Coachman, MHA, program director for the UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center (CNC) and the UAB Center for Neuroengineering and Brain-Computer Interfaces (CNBCI), has become a cornerstone of the neuroscience community since joining UAB in 2022. She advanced from program manager to program director in just three years.
Coachman keeps both interdisciplinary centers running, managing budgets, pilot awards, and the administrative processes that let investigators focus on science. She has also served as program manager for the Heersink School of Medicine Brain-PRIME program since its launch in August 2023.
Her work extends to the school’s education mission. Coachman coordinates the annual CNC Retreat, the CNBCI NeuroGateways symposium, and the campuswide Neuroscience Seminar Series. In fall 2025, she helped organize a new 10-week Assistant Professor School, which drew more than 30 trainees and faculty.
Through the Neuroscience for All initiative, Coachman also helps bring brain science to the public. Last year, Brain Awareness Week activities at the McWane Science Center reached more than 4,000 people, and monthly Brain Chats at local libraries continue that outreach year-round. She is a co-author on a recent publication in The Journal of Neuroscience outlining those efforts.
“Many of the accomplishments attributed to our centers are made possible through Audrey’s behind-the-scenes leadership and organizational excellence,” said nominators Jeremy Day, Ph.D., director of the CNC, and Nicole Bentley, M.D., director of the CNBCI. “Her efforts strengthen the connection between academic medicine and the communities we serve, ensuring that the benefits of discovery extend beyond campus boundaries.
Shirley Gibbs
Clinical Program Director II
Division of Neuro-Oncology
Department of Neurology
Shirley Gibbs, program director II in the Division of Neuro-Oncology within the Department of Neurology, has been a dedicated member of the department since 1999, providing exceptional leadership and administrative support across the department. As a longtime coordinator for the Neurology Residency Program and Neurology Clerkship, she has played a critical role in supporting program operations.
“I am very humbled. This award validates my hard work and commitment and is a reminder of why we do what we do. It’s a daily choice to show up, support, and make a positive and lasting impact,” said Gibbs. “UAB has provided me with opportunities to grow personally and professionally. I am incredibly grateful to the Division of Neuro-Oncology and the Department of Neurology for their support and belief in my work and dedication to UAB.”
Recognized throughout UAB for her expertise in graduate medical education and ACGME processes, Gibbs is a trusted resource for faculty, trainees, and program administrators. She navigates complex regulatory requirements, fosters collaboration, and supports program excellence, contributing significantly to the success of neurology education.
Gibbs is a central part of the division's growth. She provides vital expertise in grant management and clinical research while helping successfully build medical and administrative staff.
“Shirley is exceptionally deserving of the Dean’s Excellence Award for Staff because of her unwavering dedication, outstanding professionalism, and profound impact,” said L. Burt Nabors, M.D., distinguished professor, vice chair for research, and director of the Division of Neuro-oncology.
In addition to her institutional contributions, Gibbs has demonstrated outstanding leadership in community outreach and patient advocacy. She helped organize major initiatives, such as the Blazer Bolt for Brain Cancer and UAB Goes Gray events, raising awareness and support for patients and families affected by brain cancer.
Known for her professionalism, dependability, and commitment, Gibbs consistently goes beyond the expectations of her role while mentoring colleagues and supporting departmental initiatives. Her longstanding contributions have made a lasting impact on UAB.
Nancy Saxon
Manager, Clinical Research Nursing
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Nancy Saxon, BSN, R.N., clinical research nurse manager in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the Center for Research in Women’s Health, has spent more than three decades building a remarkable career at UAB.
Saxon serves as UAB’s coordinator for the NIH-funded Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) Network, a national multicenter obstetric research network, and as lead coordinator for its GOALPOST and PRECEDE studies. She also leads a team of 10 research nurses and coordinators who provide around-the-clock coverage for inpatient obstetric trials, where research has to fit around the demands of patient care.
Known across the department as the go-to expert on labor and delivery research, Saxon is just as valued for her mentorship. She helps nurses, coordinators, trainees, and faculty build the skills and confidence to advance their careers.
“Nancy Saxon embodies every attribute this award seeks to recognize,” said nominators Rachel Sinkey, M.D., associate professor in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; Ashley Battarbee, M.D., MPH, director of the Center for Research in Women’s Health; and Alan Tita, M.D., Ph.D., senior vice chair for Research and Innovation in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. “Her contributions have advanced the research mission of the Heersink School of Medicine and strengthened the careers of countless colleagues.”
Fatima Igdoura, MBA
Program Manager II
Department of Pathology
Fatima Igdoura, MBA, program manager II in the UAB Department of Pathology, demonstrates exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to advancing the missions of education, clinical care, and research in the Heersink School of Medicine. Igdoura joined the department in 2023. She leads operational coordination for the chair’s office, supporting strategic initiatives, administrative operations, and institutional priorities.
“Through exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Fatima has consistently elevated departmental performance while fostering a culture of collaboration, professionalism, and engagement,” said Selvarangan Ponnazhagan, Ph.D., vice chair for Research for the Department of Pathology.
Igdoura was recently re-elected to UAB Staff Council as an executive member and as chair of the Staff Development and Recognition Committee. She has served in this capacity since 2024 and has advocated for Heersink School of Medicine staff interests and contributed to staff development initiatives. In her role as chair, she launched “Taking Charge of Your Career,” a university-wide series on career ownership, leadership growth, and organizational engagement. Igdoura has served as Staff Wellness Champion for the Department of Pathology since 2024 and has led wellness initiatives designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and organizational culture.
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful,” Igdoura said. “I believe our greatest strength lies in the people and community we build together. I’m grateful to be part of an institution that values growth and collaboration, and I hope to continue contributing to a community where people feel valued, have opportunities to grow, and are inspired to do the same for others.”
Shannon Stephens
Senior Manager
Center for Injury Science
Department of Surgery
In his role as senior manager of the UAB Center for Injury Science (CIS) within the Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Shannon Stephens has made impactful and far-reaching contributions to UAB, the broader research community, and the countless individuals whose careers have been impacted by his work. With more than 25 years in emergency care research and clinical trial operations, his leadership has helped secure more than $8 million in extramural funding and has supported research efforts that improve both scientific quality and patient representation.
At The Center for Injury Science (CIS), his expertise has helped shape major national studies in trauma, emergency medicine, and prehospital care, thus establishing UAB as an internationally recognized leader in these fields. Notably, he advanced Exception from Informed Consent research through innovative approaches to social media and community engagement, establishing ethical and operational frameworks now used in studies by institutions across the country.
Stephens created an undergraduate research assistant program which allowed over 400 UAB students to gain valuable research experience, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. He also built a process to enable multidisciplinary investigators to collect research samples 24/7.
At a national level, Stephens has served in key leadership roles on numerous NIH- and DOD-funded studies. By coordinating large, complex projects involving hundreds of participating institutions, he has earned the trust of collaborators across the country.
His nominators, Herbert Chen, M.D., chair of the Department of Surgery, Jeffrey Kerby, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, and Jan Jansen, MBBS, Ph.D., director of the Center for Injury Science, describe Stephens as “an outstanding leader, a dedicated mentor, a creative problem solver, and a tireless advocate for excellence in research and service” who has made significant accomplishments “with humility, generosity, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.”