On Sept. 24, 2026, Heersink School of Medicine hosted a celebration to honor the 5th anniversary of the largest philanthropic commitment in UAB history by Marnix E. Heersink, M.D., that led to the naming of Heersink School of Medicine and numerous improvement efforts to Volker Hall, which houses UAB’s medical student education. The event, hosted in Volker Hall’s brand-new atrium, featured a piano recital with medical student musical performances and the special announcement of the City of Birmingham’s “Heersink Day.”
Dr. Marnix and Mary Heersink served as guests of honor. To express UAB’s gratitude for Dr. Heersink’s impact, the recital was attended by Ray Watts, M.D., UAB President; Anupam Agarwal, M.D., Senior Vice President for Medicine and Dean, Heersink School of Medicine; as well as other dignitaries from the office of the president and Heersink School of Medicine. Medical students and Heersink faculty and staff also attended to show their support.
“Music reminds us that the greatest contributions often resonate long after the performance ends,” said Agarwal in remarks introducing the celebratory recital. “That same idea of enduring impact is why we are gathered here today. As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of the transformational gift from Marnix and Mary Heersink, we're seeing the same enduring impact throughout our school and in the people we serve. Five years ago, the Heersinks made an extraordinary investment in the future of our school. While the significance of that gift was clear at the time, its impact has become even more evident with each passing year.”
The piano used for the recital was gifted by Dr. Heersink in 2026 to furnish the Volker Hall Atrium. The piano joins a legacy of philanthropy that has included the historic $100 million gift in 2021, as well as support for the Marnix E. Heersink Endowed Medical Scholarship.
As part of the Volker Hall renovation, the piano adds both beauty and functionality to the atrium. Its automated performances fill the space with music throughout the afternoon, while Wednesday open-play hours give Heersink students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to share their own talents.
Recital musical selections included solo and duet piano performances of classical pieces as well as a vocal performance of "Dream a Little Dream of Me," accompanied by a pianist. Medical students involved in the recital were: David Klimjack (MS1), Dana Mays (MS1), Clarisse Nacilla (MS2), Janna Ren (MS2), Rachel Sargent (MS2), and Henry Stephens (MS2).
After the recital, Watts unveiled a framed proclamation issued by the City of Birmingham, announcing Sept. 24 as “Heersink Day” to commemorate Dr. Heersink’s contributions to education, healthcare, biomedical innovation, and community advancement for both UAB and the greater Birmingham area. To celebrate Dr. Heersink’s lasting footprint within the school, Agarwal also presented Dr. Heersink with an honorary Heersink School of Medicine white coat.
A reception was held after the event, allowing medical students to meet and mingle with Dr. Marnix and Mary Heersink and Heersink School of Medicine leadership.
Read more about the fifth anniversary of the transformational $100 million Heersink gift.