The UAB Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at UAB Callahan Eye is pleased to announce the selection of the chief residents for the 2025-2026 academic year. Morghan Sahawneh, M.D., and John Stoffer, M.D., have been chosen by their peers to lead the residency program in their final year of training.

The chief resident position is a distinguished role within the department, recognizing leadership, dedication, and a commitment to excellence in patient care and education. Chief residents serve as advocates for their peers while working closely with faculty to enhance the residency program.

Sahawneh expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am truly honored to have been chosen by my peers to serve as chief resident for the 2025-2026 academic year. I look forward to supporting such an exceptional group of residents and attending physicians. The training I have received over the past three years has been invaluable, and I am eager to contribute to the continued development of our program for the benefit of current and future residents.”

Stoffer also shared his enthusiasm for the role, saying, “It's a wonderful honor and privilege to be elected for the chief resident position. I look forward to working closer with the outstanding faculty and familiarizing myself with the levers and mechanisms behind a productive residency program. For how much the program has offered me, I hope to provide it valuable service for the betterment of my patients and peers and to further advance the residency program toward its full potential.”

As they step into their leadership roles, Sahawneh and Stoffer will work alongside faculty and program leadership to support their fellow residents and help shape the future of the UAB Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences residency program. Their dedication and vision will contribute to the continued excellence of the program in training the next generation of ophthalmologists.