Michele Nichols, M.D., Pediatric Emergency Medicine, has been named the 2020 recipient of the Robert S. Holm, M.D., Award. This award is presented by the Association of Pediatric Program Directors (APPD) each year to honor a member of the APPD for their outstanding contribution to mentorship and support for other program directors in the APPD and for their service as a role model to program leadership across the organization.

Dr. Nichols served as the co-program director for the UAB Pediatric Residency Program from 1995 to 2008 with Ray Watts, M.D., and took over as the program director in 2008. During her tenure, the program has graduated 554 residents working in pediatrics across the United States. Her commitment to creating a strong educational foundation and fostering outreach and advocacy opportunities has been instrumental in the residency program graduating well-rounded residents. As the vice chair for Education in the Department of Pediatrics, she has been a dedicated leader for education initiatives across the department.

Dr. Nichols’ leadership and commitment extend outside of the department with positions on University-wide committees and membership in regional and national associations. As part of the APPD, Dr. Nichols has led several workshops and presentations to help mentor and teach other program directors across the nations.

“I am both honored and humbled to be receiving this award from the APPD,” said Dr. Nichols. “I share this award with many people including program and department leadership as well as our amazing residents. I have had incredible support and teaching from my mentors and leaders over the years and hope I have been able, in turn, to pay it forward and help others find their passion in pediatrics.”  

Congratulations Dr. Nichols!