After more than 25 years of service, Christy Willis, M.A., ALC, NCC, is retiring from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to medical education, mentorship, and student success.
Willis' journey with the department began in 1999 in MedSurg Gynecology, which later became part of the current Urogynecology Division. After briefly leaving UAB for one year, she returned and found her place within the department, ultimately transitioning into the education division, where she worked closely with third-year medical students and OB/GYN residents.
"When I started in MedSurg Gyn in 1999, I had no idea that I would find a home and a family that would help support me through some very difficult times," Willis said. “This department has been my family for 27 years of my life and I have enjoyed the people that I work with. I have had the great honor of working alongside some of the best physicians and coworkers.”
Throughout her career, Willis remained committed to personal and professional growth. While working full time, she earned a bachelor's degree from Lee University in 2018 and completed a master's degree from UAB in 2025.
In 2024, Willis was nominated for the APGO Donna Wachter Clerkship Coordinator Award, recognizing her contributions to medical education and student engagement.
During her time in the department, Willis became known for fostering a supportive environment for students, residents, and colleagues while helping navigate challenges and identify solutions.
"The couch in my office has been a place where many people have sat and cried, vented and needed someone to just listen," Willis said. "I feel that I was that person for many of them."
When reflecting on the impact she hopes to leave behind, Willis emphasized the importance of perseverance and adaptability.
"Despite any obstacles that may arise, there is a path forward," she said. "Sometimes that means stepping outside of your comfort zone to ensure that things move forward."
As retirement approaches, Willis says she will miss the close-knit relationships built throughout the department, particularly with faculty, staff, and residents.
"I will miss the cohesiveness of the team I work with," Willis said. "I will definitely miss Drs. Sharma and Stewart, my coworkers, and other faculty and staff that I work with. They have become my family, and I will miss them dearly."
She will also miss the joy of watching residents develop throughout their training.
In retirement, Willis plans to expand her counseling practice and continue serving others in a new capacity.
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology thanks Willis for her years of service and contributions to the department's educational mission and wishes her the very best in retirement.