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Written by Brian C. Moon - February 7, 2025
RISE LogoThe Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) is excited to launch the RISE Leadership Program, a new initiative designed to equip clinical research professionals with essential leadership skills. The 2025 inaugural cohort recently began their nine-week training, which focuses on developing scientific and organizational leaders in clinical and translational research.

Empowering Future Research Leaders

Recognizing the increasingly team-oriented nature of clinical investigation, RISE (Relate, Inspire, Strategize, Elevate) Leadership Development was created to provide immersive, experiential leadership training tailored for clinical research professionals.

Throughout the program, participants will engage in structured sessions covering key leadership competencies, including:
  • Project Leadership & Teamwork – Effective delegation, accountability, and navigating challenges with diplomacy.
  • Interpersonal Effectiveness – Emotional intelligence, communication strategies, and overcoming biases.
  • Trust Building – Inclusive intelligence, conflict management, and fostering collaboration.
  • Building a Community of Practice – Managing up, networking, and integrating research leadership skills into clinical and translational science.

The 2025 RISE Cohort

2025 RISE cohort logo smCongratulations to the 2025 RISE cohort!The inaugural RISE Leadership Cohort brings together clinical research professionals committed to advancing their leadership skills and expanding their impact in research settings. The program provides an invaluable opportunity to develop leadership strategies, enhance team dynamics, and cultivate a network of future leaders in clinical and translational science.
  • Loreli Alvarez, Acute, Chronic & Continuing Care
  • Muna Anabtawi, Behavioral & Population Sciences
  • Kelsey Antonio, Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • Brandon Bailey, CCTS
  • Harper Basquill, Nutrition Sciences
  • Ralee' Bunt, Dermatology
  • Chris Chapleau, Pharmacy Admn - Hospital
  • Olga Chesnokova, CCTS
  • Ping DeBlasio, Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • Chinara Dosse, Neurology
  • Maitlyn Eady, CCTS
  • Megan Evans, Biostatistics
  • Latasha Harris, Nursing
  • Necole Harris, UAB Lung Health Center
  • Krissie Hock, Pediatrics
  • Tamara Howard, CCTS
  • Ashwini Katre, Obstetrics & Gynecology
  • Susan Keeling, Pediatrics
  • Heather Logan, Medicine
  • Anna Munger, Neurosurgery
  • Ginger Reeves, Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • April Riddle, Radiology
  • Ishita Shah, Medicine
  • Fariha Shaukat, Medicine
  • Jenna Smith, Neurology
  • Bridget Tate, Pediatrics
  • Lorenzo Thompson, UAB Immunology Institute
  • Nehal Vekariya, Medicine
  • Jane Vines, Medicine

Looking Ahead

With the successful launch of RISE, the CCTS is dedicated to strengthening leadership development in clinical research. As the program evolves, it will continue to equip research professionals with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern research environments and drive innovation. Learn more about the RISE Leadership Program, and subscribe to the weekly CCTS Digest to stay informed of all upcoming CCTS opportunites.