Cynthia Francis, M.D. and Darien McNeill, M.D. were selected as the 2024-2025 Chief Residents for the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency Program. Effective April 1, 2024, Dr. Francis will serve as Administrative Chief and Dr. McNeill will serve as Education Chief.

Dr. Francis earned her undergraduate degree from Saint Louis University and her M.D. from Indiana University School of Medicine. “Over the last two years, I have taken immense pride in being a part of this residency program, and I would like to take a more active role in representing our program as we approach the opening of the new rehab hospital,” said Dr. Francis.

Dr. McNeill earned his undergraduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his M.D. from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine. "I'm excited for the opportunity to continue promoting the growth and success of our amazing program," said Dr. McNeill.

When not working with patients, both doctors enjoy various hobbies. Dr. Francis enjoys baking, yoga, tennis, reading, and traveling. Dr. McNeill enjoys playing basketball, tennis, weight training, snowboarding, grilling, and watching sports.

"Our Chief Residents serve as leaders, teachers, and role models for our program and department. We thank Dr. Lopes and Dr. Santos Agosto for their wonderful leadership and dedication this past year as Chief Residents. Congratulations to our incoming Chief Residents, Dr. Francis and Dr. McNeill. We look forward to their leadership," Dale Colorado, D.O., PM&R Residency Program Director.