AL HJR181

Honors Dr. Will Ferniany for distinguished service as Chief Executive Officer of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System for 13 years beginning in 2008.

Recognizes expansion of UAB Health System from 5 to 11 hospitals with revenues growing from $2.3 billion to $5.8 billion, and his oversight of the $5 billion UAB Ascension St. Vincent's Alliance.

Credits Dr. Ferniany's leadership improvements including developing telehealth systems, strengthening academic medicine, promoting diversity and health equity, and coordinating cooperative agreements across Alabama health care facilities.

Acknowledges his role leading the Health System's COVID-19 response, including establishing testing sites, developing new testing methods, administering over 105,000 vaccines, and serving as a vaccine site.

Authorizes establishment of the Will Ferniany Academic Medicine Leadership Award to be given annually to a health system executive demonstrating commitment to the institution's academic mission.