The UAB Office of Access & Engagement, in partnership with the Birmingham Promise Scholar Program and the Office of Student Engagement and Enrichment, is pleased to host The Birmingham Connection, a celebration of the deep and lasting connection between UAB and Birmingham City Schools.
The celebration will feature a panel of scholars and alumni from BCS high schools and UAB, who will share insights on navigating the transition from high school to college and from higher education to successful careers. Drawing on their personal and professional experiences, panelists will discuss the opportunities, challenges, and lessons that have shaped their journeys. The panelists include:
- Alesia Jones, Principal Consultant & Owner of AMJ HR Solutions, Former UAB Chief HR Officer, graduate of Huffman High School
- Tammy Fincher, Senior Employee Relations Specialist for PNC Bank, graduate of Woodlawn High School)
- Derrick Gooden, Owner & Lead Home Inspector for Gooden Inspection Services, graduate of Parker High School
The conversation will be moderated by David Dada, Director of UAB Government Relations and a graduate of Ramsay High School. The panel discussion will be followed by a community mixer to provide students with an opportunity to network with alumni and professionals and foster meaningful connections for mentorship and professional development.
- Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
- Time: 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
- Location: UAB National Alumni House
Registration is encouraged. To request accessibility accommodations, please email
We Want to Hear from You
Are you an alumnus of Birmingham City Schools? The Office of Access & Engagement is gathering information from Birmingham City School alumni to support students and strengthen connections across the UAB campus and community.