For a quarter century at UAB and the past decade within the Department of Urology, Liranda Howard, Education Administrator Senior, has focused on people and processes. Upon her retirement at the end of this month, she looks back with deep gratitude, having strengthened the residency program and created a supportive, organized environment for trainees and faculty.
25-year UAB journey
Howard joined UAB in 1997 in the Department of Medicine, then moved to the Office of the Provost in 1998 and the School of Dentistry in 2002. She joined the Office of Equity and Diversity in 2005, then the Division of Gerontology, Geriatric and Palliative Medicine in 2007, where she coordinated grants and faculty appointments. In 2013, she moved to the Department of Ophthalmology.
Her path led to UAB Urology in 2015. She advanced from administrative associate to administrative supervisor to education administrator, later serving as education administrator senior.
“Over time, I found my passion in graduate medical education, where I could support learners and faculty,” Howard said. “That journey ultimately led me to serve as Education Administrator Senior in Urology, a role that allowed me to combine organization, service, and mentorship.”
Making programs work for people
Within Urology, Howard focused on structure and day-to-day reliability. She helped strengthen residency operations from recruitment through accreditation readiness and supported the launch of fellowship and international observership programs. She summed up the intent behind her efforts.
“I’m most proud of helping strengthen the structure and processes of the residency program, from recruitment to accreditation work, ensuring our trainees had a supportive and organized environment,” Howard said.
The milestones that mattered most, according to Howard, were the residents’ successes.
“Seeing residents match into fellowships or their first positions has always been deeply meaningful,” she said. “Watching their growth from nervous interns to confident physicians is incredibly rewarding. Being a steady support system helping residents navigate challenges, celebrating their successes, and most of all seeing them finish what they started has brought me the most joy.”
Her approach has rested on a simple set of values.
“Consistency, kindness, and a strong sense of responsibility guided me,” she said. “I always tried to lead with empathy while staying organized and dependable.”
Leadership that shaped her path
Howard credits mentors who modeled the qualities she worked to embody.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with many inspiring leaders, including Dr. Dean Assimos, who created space for differing opinions and allowed room to learn through mistakes; Dr. Peter Kolettis, the consummate professional; Dr. Adam Klein, who is keenly aware of people; and Dr. Tracey Wilson, whose feedback was always intentional and honest — and for me, honesty is kindness,” she said. “Each of them modeled integrity, authenticity, and calm leadership in their own way.”
From those examples, she deepened her commitment to steady guidance and respect for others in every interaction.
Recognition that affirmed the work
Recent honors, including the SAU ACURE Program Coordinator Excellence Award and 2025 Dean’s Excellence Award for Staff, felt meaningful because they reflected the impact of collaborative work.
“It was deeply humbling,” she said. “I’ve always approached my work with a servant’s heart and a genuine desire to see others succeed, so the recognition felt less about me and more about the people and teams I’ve had the privilege to support. Knowing that the quiet, behind-the-scenes work made a difference is what meant the most.”
What she will miss, and what comes next
Thinking ahead toward retirement, Howard said she will miss the rhythm of the day, especially the small moments that build community.
“I’ll miss the daily interactions, quick check-ins with residents, and conversations with colleagues that built such a strong sense of community,” she said.
She looks forward to time with family and a new pace.
“I’m excited to spend more time with my family, especially supporting my 11-year-old grandson through these next formative years, and to enjoy a slower pace while exploring new interests.”
Her message to the UAB community upon retirement is simple and heartfelt.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the relationships and memories,” Howard said. “UAB Urology will always feel like family, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done together. The people here have brought me the greatest joy and fulfillment of my career.”
“There were seasons when I was placed in situations I never imagined I would be strong enough to navigate, yet through those experiences I grew, learned and found purpose,” she continued. “I am thankful for every challenge, every success, and every person who walked alongside me. It has been an honor to serve this community, and I will carry these memories with deep gratitude as I begin this next chapter.”