Jordan DeMoss, executive vice president of UAB MedicineJordan DeMoss, MSHA, executive vice president of UAB Medicine, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Will Ferniany Academic Medicine Leadership Award.
The award honors Will Ferniany, Ph.D., former health system chief executive officer. Created after his retirement in 2021, the Ferniany Award recognizes administrative executives who have advanced and supported UAB Medicine’s academic mission and inspire others through their commitment to that mission.
DeMoss joined the UAB Health System in 2005 as an administrative resident. He has since served in a variety of roles, building a reputation as a strategic, collaborative leader who aligns operational excellence with academic priorities. Currently, he oversees complex clinical service lines while fostering growth in research, faculty development, and education.
“Mr. DeMoss exemplifies the strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and deep commitment to the academic mission that this award recognizes,” said Michelle Fortune, executive vice president of hospital operations at UAB Hospital. “Over more than two decades of progressive leadership at UAB Medicine, he has consistently advanced the institution's tripartite mission by integrating clinical excellence, innovative research, and learner-centered education.”
A hallmark of DeMoss’s leadership is his ability to strategically build and scale programs. His role in elevating UAB to a nationally recognized oncology leader highlights this. In 2019, he collaborated with the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center to launch the Cancer Service Line, resulting in a 42% increase in encounters and boosting clinical services and access to advanced therapies, such as cellular therapy and molecular diagnostics.
DeMoss has led major initiatives across UAB Medicine, including the expansion of neurosciences and behavioral health programs. He also played a key role in developing the new Spain Rehabilitation Center. The new location, opened in August 2025, now serves as a regional hub for rehabilitation innovation, interdisciplinary training, and translational research.
“This investment strengthens UAB’s ability to recruit leading faculty, expand residency and fellowship programs, and care for some of the most complex patients in the Southeast,” said Fortune.
Operationally, DeMoss keeps innovation and patient focus at the forefront. When COVID-19 hit, he led the implementation of the testing program and established drive-through and community testing sites.
To further encourage future healthcare leaders, DeMoss serves as an adjunct faculty member in the UAB School of Health Professions and as an executive sponsor of the UAB Master of Science in Health Administration program, giving students opportunities to take ownership of projects while reinforcing a culture of learning. Through his mentorship, these students can develop their leadership and decision-making skills, enabling them to achieve greater success in their careers.
DeMoss also champions initiatives that strengthen patient- and family-centered care, support workforce development, and promote collaboration across disciplines. As an advocate for the Heersink faculty, he works closely with department chairs and division directors to ensure continuous advancement in scholarly activity and state-of-the-art care.
His leadership doesn’t stop at UAB. DeMoss stays active in the community through partnerships and philanthropic efforts. He has made significant contributions through impactful fundraising and program leadership, securing major support for organizations like March of Dimes and Ronald McDonald House Charities. He has also advanced workforce development, education, and family support initiatives, improving access to care for residents of Birmingham and beyond.
“His record of innovation, strategic leadership, and steadfast dedication to the mission of UAB Medicine and the Heersink School of Medicine exemplifies the spirit and vision of Dr. Ferniany’s legacy,” said Fortune.
The Will Ferniany Academic Medicine Leadership Award honors individuals who embody the vision of advancing academic medicine through innovation, collaboration, and service. DeMoss’s leadership and sustained contributions to UAB Medicine reflect that legacy and continue to shape its future.