Matt Sherrer, M.D.The Heersink School of Medicine has appointed D. Matthew Sherrer, M.D., associate professor in the Department of Anesthesiology, as assistant dean for Faculty Affairs following a competitive search. This position will play a vital role in advancing a key mission area for the school and the UAB Health System by supporting clinical faculty development and engagement.

"For the last several years, I have had the amazing privilege of leading culture change initiatives for anesthesia and perioperative teams, and I am incredibly proud of the work that these teams have done,” said Sherrer. “I am humbled by the opportunity to scale these efforts far beyond the confines of the perioperative space, and I cannot wait to get started. It is a tremendous honor to serve alongside the Faculty Affairs team, and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity.”

In his new role, Sherrer will oversee clinical faculty-related issues and lead initiatives that strengthen faculty development through onboarding, mentorship, professionalism, and promotion. He will guide faculty development programs and collaborate with the Faculty Affairs Office to deliver resources that meet the unique needs of clinical faculty in an academic setting.

Sherrer will also guide the planning and execution of faculty development programs, workshops, and seminars, while working closely with the Faculty Affairs Office team to ensure effective delivery of services and resources. Additionally, he will provide vision and leadership for strategies that address the unique needs of clinical faculty in an academic environment.

"Dr. Sherrer brings a depth of experience and a genuine dedication to faculty development that aligns perfectly with our mission. We are excited for the leadership, insight, and energy he will bring to the assistant dean for Faculty Affairs role," said Alecia Gross, Ph.D., associate dean for Faculty Affairs and Development.

Sherrer brings extensive experience in clinical leadership, education, and organizational development. As director of care team collaboration, Sherrer co-led efforts to foster an inclusive work environment and launched programs such as LEAD INFINITELY and the Perioperative Leadership Fellowship, which have strengthened teamwork and leadership development across UAB Medicine.

Sherrer, a Certified Team Coach and published author on collaboration, has led initiatives that promote interprofessional teamwork and leadership development, including the LEAD INFINITELY workshop series and a Perioperative Leadership Fellowship Program. He also partners with UAB’s Leadership Development Office to advance clinician well-being and professionalism. His appointment underscores the school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for faculty success.

We thank the search committee, Richard Rosenthal, M.D., Scott Ballinger, Ph.D., Alecia Gross, Ph.D., Scott Austin, MBA, Hannah Perez, MBA, Chad Burski, M.D., Lisle Nabell, M.D., and Kristina Gidley, PA-C, MSHA, for their dedicated service in filling this key leadership role.