Gerald Bryson Friedman, program manager II in medical student services, and Jorice Johnson McCain, HRP generalist lead in the Heersink School of Medicine Dean's Office and strategic HR partner to medical education, have been accepted into UAB’s Developing Emerging Administrative Leaders (DEAL) program.
Gerald Bryson Friedman
The DEAL program takes a multidisciplinary approach in exposing promising UAB staff members to essential administrative and management position components, including human resources, finance, research, education, and clinical operations.
“I have been at UAB for almost six years, and I am still learning something new about it daily,” said Friedman. “Through the DEAL program, I hope to become a more effective communicator, decision-maker, and collaborator because it’s important to me that I make those around me better as well.”
The ten-month curriculum mixes presentations from key university and health system leaders with real-world case studies, discussions, and practical, interactive learning. Participants also have the opportunity to network with existing administrators and each other between sessions and beyond the program.
Jorice Johnson McCain“I have consistently embraced roles of increasing responsibility, and while those experiences have provided valuable insights, I am keenly aware of the imperative to develop my leadership capabilities further,” said McCain. “Participating in the DEAL program equips me with the essential skills and knowledge to prepare for the higher-level administrative position I aspire to attain, ideally the HRP Manager or Director role.”
The 2024 DEAL program began in January 2024, and Friedman and McCain are excited to participate in the second cohort in the course’s history.
“I am committed to using this knowledge to lead strategic initiatives, advocate for progress, and contribute to UAB's mission of excellence and innovation in healthcare, research, and education,” vowed McCain.