On May 17, 2025, the UAB Heersink School of Medicine proudly celebrated the graduation of 183 medical students during its annual Commencement ceremony, held at Bartow Arena in Birmingham, Alabama.

Of the 2025 class, 43 graduates will remain at UAB Medicine to complete their residencies, and a total of 68 will remain in the state of Alabama.

The event began with a formal academic procession led by school leadership and faculty, followed by the entrance of students grouped by Learning Community. Anupam Agarwal, M.D., senior vice president for Medicine and dean of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, officially opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks that acknowledged the dedication and perseverance of this year’s graduating class. Family members, friends, and faculty filled the arena to honor the Class of 2025 as they reached this significant milestone—the transition from medical student to residency.

“This moment marks a defining chapter in their journey towards becoming compassionate and skilled physicians.” Agarwal said. “Nothing is more invigorating than standing before you today knowing that each of you is about to embark on a journey that will shape the future of medicine. Celebrating this milestone with you fills me with immense pride and hope as I know the world is gaining not just doctors but extraordinary healers.”

This year’s keynote speaker, Holden Thorp, Ph.D., editor-in-chief of Science, encouraged graduates to embrace uncertainty and approach their work with humility. “Today is a day for celebration, a recognition of your accomplishments and your preparation for what lies ahead,” Thorp said. “You have the knowledge, the compassion, and the mission... there is no doubt that you are right where you are supposed to be.”

Photos from the ceremony are available here, and a full recording of the Commencement live stream, along with the official program, can be viewed here.

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