The UAB Department of Surgery is honored to congratulate five faculty members who have recently graduated from the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine Emerging Leader Series (ELS) professional development program, which was developed by UAB Medicine's Leadership Development Office (LDO).

Among the faculty who graduated from the ELS were:

Andrea Gillis, M.D., MSPH
Zain Hashmi, M.D.
Chinwendu Onwubiko, M.D., Ph.D.
Saulat Sheikh, M.D.
Laura Stafman, M.D., Ph.D.

Through the ELS program, the UAB Medicine Leadership Development Office provides leadership training for healthcare providers, with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes. Participants are encouraged to explore ways to make processes more efficient and to streamline efforts for optimum productivity and patient support.

In the sessions, faculty members are motivated to share their challenges and unique situations with the program, allowing for the development of personalized strategies to become more effective leaders. In addition to practical exercises, faculty also gain theoretical knowledge of leadership tactics through engaging presentations and discussions.

The ELS initiative specifically offers leadership development opportunities for individuals who may not have direct reports but are currently serving or expected to serve in leadership roles. This program is offered twice per calendar year.

“As a department, our goal is to provide patients with the highest quality of care. Developing exceptional leadership skills in our surgeons is certainly a crucial part of this mission. Surgeons frequently take on leadership roles, across their day-to-day interactions in the OR and beyond. These professional development programs help empower our team to hone their voice and learn how to best mobilize their teams for the most impactful clinical action,” said UAB Department of Surgery Vice Chair of Faculty Development Elizabeth Beierle, M.D.