Rural medicine program celebrates 20th cohort at white coat ceremony

The College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM), in partnership with the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, celebrated the 20th cohort of the Rural Medicine Program during its annual white coat ceremony on Aug. 22. Eleven students were honored with white coats, stethoscopes, and scholarships as they began their training to  serve as future physicians in rural communities across Alabama.

COSAM Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Rural Medicine Program Academic Director Maggie Han opened the evening by welcoming students, families, and community members.

“They are outstanding individuals who have chosen a path in medicine that is both demanding and vitally important — the path of becoming primary care physicians serving small and often underserved communities across our state,” said Han. “We’re honored to support them as they begin this meaningful journey.”

Program Director Dr. David Bramm reflected on the program’s legacy and milestones, emphasizing the collective effort it has taken to reach this 20-year mark. He honored founding director Dr. Bill Coleman and paid special tribute to Dr. Keith Bufford, who recently stepped down from his role as Medical Director after 19 years of service — since the program’s inception in 2006.

“Keith has been the steady hand and compassionate heart of this program,” Bramm said. “His guidance, mentorship, and deep understanding of rural medicine shaped the experience of every student who passed through our doors. His legacy is woven into the fabric of this program.”

Bramm also highlighted the program’s strong outcomes. While only 3% of medical students nationwide choose rural practice, more than 50 percent of Rural Medicine Program graduates go on to serve rural communities. That number climbs to 72% among those who complete the integrated residency track in Huntsville.

“Our success has been easy because these students started out as wonderful people,” Bramm added.

Following Bramm’s remarks, Dr. Lanita Carter, Director of Medical Education and Student Services at the UAB Heersink School of Medicine’s Huntsville Regional Medical Campus, addressed the students.

“All journeys require planning, sacrifice and perseverance,” she said. “But one thing you will not lack is support — from your faculty, your peers, and this program — as you take the next steps toward becoming rural physicians.”

Dean Edward Thomas of COSAM also offered remarks, reflecting on Auburn University’s land-grant mission and COSAM’s deep commitment to the state.

“Our participation in the Rural Medicine Program exemplifies what it means to be a land-grant institution,” said Thomas. “Through this partnership, we are not only preparing future physicians, but also directly contributing to the health and wellbeing of rural Alabamians — something COSAM is proud to stand behind.”

The ceremony then turned to the symbolic traditions of medical training. Medical Co-Director Dr. Ashley Lane spoke on the significance of the white coat.

“See it as the beginning of your journey — to be evidence-based, compassionate, and committed to the health and dignity of every patient you serve,” Lane said.

Medical Co-Director Dr. Timothy Littmann followed by presenting the stethoscope, emphasizing its role as a tool of patient care and a lifelong symbol of learning. 

The Alabama Farmers Federation played a special role in the evening. Ryan Stanford, rural health manager, presented book scholarships on behalf of the Federation and thanked the students for pursuing careers that will directly support agricultural and rural communities throughout the state.

This year’s incoming class includes: Alona Berglund (Waterloo), Alyssa Carlotta (Athens), Jessica Criswell (Chatom), Mia Deason (Clanton), Emma Hines (Athens), Madeline Holmes (Enterprise), Emily Ingle (Athens), Jesse Pittman (Geraldine), Nathaniel Smith (Meridianville), Kaina Thomas (Cullman), and Brady Turner
(Citronelle).

The celebration also brought together many university partners and program alumni who have played a key role in supporting the Rural Medicine Program over the past two decades. Among the distinguished alumni in attendance was Dr. Tate Hinkle, a Rural Medicine Program graduate who now serves as a family physician and healthcare leader in Alexander City and across the state. Dr. Hollie Cost, Assistant Vice President for University Outreach and Public Service also joined the ceremony to honor the program’s mission and reach.

The evening concluded with a standing ovation for the students and the many individuals — faculty, preceptors, alumni and community leaders — whose dedication has shaped the Rural Medicine Program over the past 20 years. With the support of this strong and growing network, the newest cohort now steps forward into a meaningful and challenging journey — one that will shape the future of healthcare in rural Alabama.