On Friday, October 11, 2019, the Sparkman Center for Global Health (SCGH) celebrated the 40th Anniversary of the Center. Prior to this 6 members of the External Advisory Committee (EAC) met to discuss past, present, and future directions of the Sparkman Center. Of these 6 members, 4 participated in an Expert Panel: Lessons from the Field of Global Health. Those participating included Dr. David Freedman, Dr. Ricardo Izurieta, Gail Reed, and Dr. Sten Vermund. 

The 40th Anniversary Celebration took place at the AEIVA Friday afternoon with attendance including 4 past Sparkman Center Directors and representatitives, Dr. Juan Navia, son of Director Dr. Juan Navia, Dr. Sten Vermund, Dr. Nalini Sathiakumar, and Dr. Craig Wilson as well as all 6 members of the External Advisory Committee. Additionally, Sparkman Scholars, Fellows, Global Health Certificate Students, and other affiliated with the Sparkman Center for Global Health in a variety of ways including past and present affiliation.

The celebration began with current SCGH Director, Dr. Janet Turan as she introduced and welcomed attendees as well as introducing Speakers, Dr. Paul Erwin, Dr. Craig Wilson, and Dr. Muktar Aliyu. Dr. Paul Erwin, Dean of the School of Public Health emphasized the importance of global health and the impact global health has had on his career as well as the School of Public Health. Dr. Craig Wilson described the past history of the Sparkman Center since its conception. After this, the Keynote Speaker, Dr. Aliyu spoke to the audience on how the Sparkman Center for Global Health impacted his life and career. Finally, Dr. Janet Turan recognized the various Sparkman Center Programs and current directions including Sparkman Staff, Scholars, Fellows, and Pilot Grant Awardees. The formal event was followed by a reception and dance performance by a UAB Dance Troupe known as TRIBE.