Fouad has worked to establish research on differences in health outcomes and access to care as a national scientific priority. Under her leadership, there has been significant growth in research examining factors that influence health outcomes at UAB, along with expanded collaborations with national and international grant partners. She has also contributed to the development of researchers and emerging scholars pursuing careers in population health and healthcare outcomes research.

Fouad plays a prominent leadership role in partnerships among academic institutions to train researchers and future leaders focused on improving health outcomes. She serves as the principal investigator for the NIMHD-funded Centers of Excellence, where she is responsible for the training and career development of students and faculty to enhance their research capabilities.

As CEO of Live HealthSmart Alabama, she is leading a transformational movement to decrease the incidence of chronic disease in Alabama and eliminate barriers to making good health simple.