Charles Gagnon - President

Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born in Panama City, Fla. and grew up there and in New Orleans, La. My mom’s family is originally from Nicaragua and immigrated to the New Orleans area in the 1980s during the Nicaraguan Revolution (Revolución Popular Sandinista). I went to the University of Central Florida for undergraduate studies where I majored in Biomedical Sciences and Spanish language. I am very passionate about endocrinology since I was diagnosed with a rare disorder called autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2 which includes Addison’s disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, celiac disease, and pre-type 1 diabetes mellitus. My goal is to become a pediatric endocrinologist and do clinical trials to enhance treatments for patients suffering from autoimmune diseases. Non-academically, I love to embrace my Hispanic heritage by going bachata dancing or singing to Bad Bunny. In addition, I identify with the LGBTQ community and am very passionate about increasing representation within the medical community, as well as advocating for gender affirmation healthcare.

What made you apply to be the class president?
The main reason why I applied for the president position was to enhance diversity within the senate and try to highlight perspectives from different niches of students on campus. I am lucky that I am able to connect with many students with being LGBTQ, LatinX, first generation MD student, out-of-state student, and a patient who suffers from chronic illnesses. I have many ideas and goals to help continue pushing UABSOM forward and staying a leader in medicine while remaining cognizant of all the groups of people it touches. I love taking initiative and facilitating hard conversations in order to increase growth, which is why I thought I could help my class become the next, new generation of physicians.

What is your favorite Birmingham spot and why?
My favorite Birmingham spot is at the fountain in Five Points. In this fountain, there are many creatures posed inside of it. I like this spot because the fountain is so unique and seems like it is from a storybook. In addition, the intersection next to it has five incoming ways of traffic (instead of the usual four) which is always interesting to watch. Overall, I like the balance of creativity and chaotic energy I get in this spot.

Why UAB?
I chose UAB for many reasons but the main one was their accessibility to resources in endocrinology research. Very few medical institutions have a focus in the field of endocrinology, specific pediatric endocrinology, so I wanted to come to a university that could support my academic pursuits in my passion. In addition, I wanted to move to an area with a different landscape that I had been accustomed to in Florida. Birmingham was an ideal location with the surrounding mountains and its moderate temperatures that allow for a change in seasons every year.

What are some things you’ve done so far (or that are in the works) as senate members that you’re particularly proud of or excited for?
A small project that I have been working on has been finding individuals (physicians, professors, staff, residents, and students) within UABSOM and the UAB Health System that are willing to be contacts under a published ‘LGBTQ Out-List’ on the UABSOM website for current and prospective students. The goal of this project is to increase the LGBTQ presence and support between the UAB Health realms. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I feel as if it is important to give resources, such as a list of contacts, to students if they need extra help with life, school or mentorship.

JC Nichols - Vice President

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am from just down the road in Hoover (where my parents still live). I went to Auburn for undergrad where I majored in Biomedical Sciences and added a last minute Spanish minor after studying abroad in Madrid my last summer of college. After graduating in May 2019, I decided to stay in Auburn for a year before starting medical school in order to serve on staff in the college ministry at the church I attended during college. I learned so much in my year working with the college ministry about listening to and caring for people, and I hope these lessons will help me to serve each patent in a way that communicates their immense intrinsic value. Things I love include tennis, Auburn sports, game nights with friends, all things Disney, Broadway, hanging at coffee shops, and I'm learning to love running... still working on that one.

What made you apply to be the class VP?
Don't tell the rest of my team, but I easily have the most fun position on exec (unbiased... mostly) - and it is still crazy humbling that I have the opportunity to serve as VP. I was drawn to Senate in general because I wanted to be part of making sure every student knows that they matter and has the opportunity to feel seen and heard. As much as I would love to say that I can single-handedly do that, it would be an impossible job for one person. But that is the beauty of our learning communities (LC's are easily one of the best parts of UABSOM!) So, I get to lead a team composed of representatives elected by each Learning Community, and together we serve as the voice of our class, work to support each of our classmates, and promote deep community within our class and school. I love my job because it is all about listening to, being there for, and supporting my classmates.

What’s something that surprised you about medical school?
I was honestly surprised by how much support there is for students when we are struggling (because at a certain point, everyone does). I guess part of me assumed at this point if you struggled, it would just be on you to figure it out. But the medical education team, the learning communities program, the faculty, and the other students really serve as a robust support network for every student whenever it is needed. I've also been surprised by the depth of friendships with classmates that have formed in the midst of a pandemic.

Why UAB?
Growing-up in Birmingham, I had a lot of prior knowledge about why UAB is a great medical center. However, when I came to UAB's preview day, I learned why UAB is a great place to be trained in the art of medicine. What struck me most and my main reason for choosing UAB was the people - at UAB I found administration that cares about the student experience, faculty who love teaching and working with students, and students who support one another in hopes that everyone succeeds. And even more importantly, all of these people actually care about the patient. I wanted to find a medical school that teaches medicine in a way that prioritizes patients and remembers they are people, and that is certainly true of UABSOM.

What are some things you’ve done so far (or that are in the works) as senate members that you’re particularly proud of or excited for?
One of the things our team has focused on is advocating for the best learning experience possible amidst the challenges presented by the pandemic. One of my favorite parts of this job is our team's regular meetings with Dr. Leon, the associate dean for Undergraduate Medical Education. He consistently prioritizes making time to hear how our class is doing and to discuss any concerns or suggestions we have for our learning experience.

James Crenshaw - Treasurer 

Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born in Birmingham and raised within a large family. As the youngest of 3 siblings and 16 cousins, I had no choice but to grow up quickly. During undergrad, I studied Chemical & Biological Engineering at the University of Alabama. My involvement in breast cancer research solidified my decision to pursue a career in medicine. As of now, my ambition is to engage in Internal Medicine residency and fellowship in Genomic Medicine. My hobbies include: being outdoors, traveling, fly fishing, mountain biking, seeking out the best restaurants and coffee shops, exercising, investing and aviation.  A fun fact: Last year, I had the opportunity to dive the Great Barrier Reef. While 50ft under the Coral Sea, I befriended a giant 500lb Potato Cod. 

What made you apply to be class treasurer?
I have always gravitated toward money management positions for many of my personal financial and investment values align with those required for a Treasurer role. I truly enjoy the process of managing/raising funds, and most importantly, enacting positive change with those funds for my colleagues and the Birmingham community. 

What’s something that surprised you about medical school?
During my entire pre-medical education, I frequently found myself wondering "when will I ever use this information?" I always had trouble incentivizing myself to study information that would go unused. Throughout fundamentals, I have never felt that the material I learn will go to waste. Most concepts are applied to clinical scenarios in lecture and lab, therefore understanding these concepts will yield better patient outcomes. This completely changed my perspective on studying, and served as a driving force for me to develop long-term knowledge of medical material.

Favorite Birmingham spot?
Revelator Coffee in Mountain Brook is my favorite spot in Birmingham. First and foremost, I am a coffee junkie, and I think they have the best coffee in town. Secondly, the coffee shop serves multiple purposes. As a study spot, it is hard to beat; the large sweeping windows and big round table provide excellent scenery for a long day of studies. The shared productive energy of having other people working alongside you keeps you focused. I frequently catch up with friends over coffee at Revelator followed by a walk around the surrounding village or the nearby Botanical Gardens. There are a bunch of great little spots to get food in the nearby area if the scones/baked goods do not suffice. My daily visits to Revelator are fueled by a need to be productive, or perhaps a growing caffeine addiction. Either way, definitely give Revelator Mtn Brook a try! 

Why UAB?
UAB is the beating heart of Birmingham, putting my hometown on the map by being one of the top research and hospital systems in the country. While growing up, I witnessed UAB's massive economic impact help grow the city of Birmingham. UAB has also made significant strides in improving health outcomes for local underserved populations through grants and the rural medicine program. The UAB School of Medicine curriculum is fundamentally unique for the professors foster collaboration among students which provides for a truly enriched educational experience. The resources available for every student are significant, and the faculty truly cares about you and wants to watch you succeed.