The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Department of Pediatrics is proud to announce that Tamera Coyne-Beasley, M.D., MPH, professor in the Division of Adolescent Medicine, has begun her term as the 138th president of the American Pediatric Society (APS), one of the most prestigious academic pediatric organization in North America.
Founded in 1888, APS brings together nearly 1,800 leading pediatric researchers, educators and clinicians dedicated to advancing child and adolescent health through scientific discovery, mentorship, advocacy and leadership.
Coyne-Beasley is the first faculty member from the UAB Department of Pediatrics and Children’s of Alabama to serve as APS president while actively serving on faculty. She also previously served as president of the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. In her incoming presidential address, Coyne-Beasley reflected on the organization’s mission and the work that lies ahead.
“APS represents the very best of academic Pediatrics, a community grounded in scientific integrity, leadership, mentorship, advocacy and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children and adolescents,” said Coyne-Beasley.
During her presidency, Coyne-Beasley will help guide APS as it works toward its vision of “a healthier future for all children and adolescents.” She emphasized the importance of strengthening the pediatric workforce, nurturing future leaders and developing innovative approaches to address emerging child health challenges.
Coyne-Beasley also announced that APS has selected ‘health equity’ as its 2026-2027 Issue of the Year, highlighting the organization’s commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their best possible health and well-being,” said Coyne-Beasley. “We know that health is shaped not only by healthcare, but also by sociopolitical determinants including access to safe environments, quality education, nutrition, mental health support and strong community resources.”
She noted that pediatricians play a critical role in identifying barriers to health early in life and partnering with families, communities and health systems to improve outcomes for children and adolescents.
Looking ahead, Coyne-Beasley notes that collaboration and leadership will remain central to APS’s work.
“During this time of uncertainty, our collective voice, leadership and action are more important than ever,” she said.
Coyne-Beasley’s presidency reflects her longstanding commitment to adolescent health, health equity and academic pediatrics while further elevating the national presence of the UAB Department of Pediatrics and Children’s of Alabama.