2025 Annual Report

The development and implementation of Excellence Through Partnership began in 2021, when Erin Shaughnessy, M.D., executive vice chair for the UAB Department of Pediatrics, and Yung Lau, M.D., chair for the UAB Department of Pediatrics, upon assuming roles as vice chairs of Clinical Affairs, articulated a vision for a more structured and sustainable clinical leadership framework. Their proposal received strong institutional support from Children’s of Alabama CEO Tom Shufflebarger and Department of Pediatrics Chair Mitch Cohen, M.D., whose financial and administrative backing enabled the program’s launch. Ongoing leadership from Shaughnessy, in collaboration with Lau and Children’s of Alabama operational partners Tony Fargason, M.D., vice president for Clinical Affairs, Andy Loehr, DNP, RN, chief operating officer, and Delicia Mason, MNHSA, RN, NEA-BC vice president of Nursing Operations, has been instrumental in sustaining and evolving the initiative. Together, these efforts underscore the value of intentional dyad leadership in advancing clinical excellence. By formalizing partnerships between medical and nursing leaders and aligning improvement efforts across the organization, Excellence Through Partnership has established a durable foundation for continuous improvement, enhanced accountability, and high-quality patient care. ●

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2025 ACADEMIC ANNUAL REPORT