Estrada named interim chair of pediatrics

Benjamin Estrada, M.D.

Benjamin Estrada, M.D., FAAP, FPIDS, a nationally recognized pediatric infectious diseases physician who has worked in a variety of clinical and leadership roles at the University of South Alabama, including USA Health, has been named interim chair of the Department of Pediatrics.

At USA, Estrada is also assistant dean for medical education and a professor of pediatrics at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine. He is double board-certified in pediatrics and infectious diseases and has been recognized nationally as a Castle Connelly Top Doc for 10 years.

“We are delighted Dr. Estrada has accepted this new role within pediatrics, one of the largest divisions in our academic health system,” said Natalie Fox, DNP, PNP-BC, interim chief executive officer and chief physician enterprise officer for USA Health. “I've had the privilege of working with Dr. Estrada for many years at USA Health, and he has been a consistent guiding presence and committed leader to our mission."

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Estrada played a pivotal role in ensuring the health and safety of children and their families who interacted with the health system and university. In 2021, he was recognized by the Sunbelt Conference for a collaboration with other healthcare faculty that allowed athletic programs to continue, giving college athletes the opportunity to more safely compete during much of the pandemic.

“As incoming interim chair, my goals for the Department of Pediatrics are to continue to build upon a unified, mission-driven community where faculty, learners, and staff are empowered to create lasting impact with a shared vision,” Estrada said. “I aim to strengthen our patient-centered clinical services, elevate our educational programs, and support faculty development through mentorship and leadership opportunities.”

Following medical school, Estrada completed a pediatric residency at Children’s & Women’s Hospital.

“As the region's leading academic health system, our mission is to not only provide excellent healthcare for our patients but also to train and guide the next generation of physicians, scientists and other providers,” said Owen Bailey, chief executive officer and senior associate vice president for medical affairs at USA Health. “In addition to his other duties, Dr. Estrada works with researchers and colleagues at other academic health systems and universities to find treatments to some of the world’s most deadly communicable childhood diseases.”

“As the region's leading academic health system, our mission is to not only provide excellent healthcare for our patients but also to train and guide the next generation of physicians and other providers,” said Michael Chang, M.D., system chief medical officer and associate vice president for medical affairs at USA Health. “Dr. Estrada brings demonstrated skills as a servant leader, an engaged mentor and an excellent pediatric physician to this role. The ability he has to make complex, important matters both understandable and solvable, as demonstrated by his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, will serve him well in this leadership role.”

Estrada earned his medical degree from Universidad Francisco Marroquin in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Following his residency at USA Health, he completed fellowship training at Tulane University Medical School and Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans.

“For years, I have watched Dr. Estrada quietly demonstrate what it takes to be a true academic physician, providing compassionate care to pediatric patients and guiding learners through infectious diseases training,” said John V. Marymont, M.D., MBA, vice president for medical affairs and dean of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at USA. “I'm excited to see what the future holds for the Department of Pediatrics under his leadership.”

Estrada is a fellow of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society and the American Academy of Pediatrics, and a member of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. In 2013, he was inducted as a faculty member into the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society at the Whiddon College of Medicine. He has won numerous faculty awards for teaching and medical outreach in the community. Estrada is an author of dozens of academic journal articles and book chapters. His research continues to be funded by federal grants.

“After being involved for 34 years in this department, I’ve seen its transformative impact on our region’s children, families, and trainees,” he said. “My vision is for us to be known not only for what we’ve achieved but also for what we continue to pursue with compassion, collaboration, and excellence.”

Pediatrics residents help young athletes during Special Olympics

Pediatrics resident physicians volunteer at the

Mobile Area Special Olympics.

To gain a better understanding of the patients they treat, a group of pediatrics residents from USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital joined the support team for the Mobile Area Special Olympics held at Davidson High School this spring. 

The Special Olympics brings together local athletes of all abilities and backgrounds in a space where everyone is celebrated for who they are. More than 420 athletes from local schools and adult facilities competed in track and field events during the Special Olympics meet. USA Health’s pediatrics residents joined some 110 teen volunteers and community helpers at the area high school. 

“It's important for pediatricians in training to see children with disabilities, not just when they are sick in the hospital but also when they're thriving, and the Special Olympics is a wonderful reminder of that,” said Haidee Custodio, M.D., Pediatrics Residency Program director and professor of pediatric infectious diseases at the Whiddon College of Medicine. “I hope we continue to participate every year.” 

By training in teaching hospitals and at medical clinics, new physicians can learn in an environment that integrates education, research, and patient care — an experience offering benefits to the healthcare staff and those they care for. Research shows patients treated in teaching hospitals had up to 20% higher odds of survival compared to those treated at non-teaching hospitals, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.  

Noor Buttar, D.O., a second-year resident physician, said taking part in the festivities was an eye-opening experience — not just as a physician, but more so as a pediatrician. 

“It was surreal to witness our remarkable population of special needs children truly shine on their special day,” she said. “What stood out to me most was the realization that creating an environment tailored to their adaptability is essential for helping them enjoy the everyday joys and experiences typical for their age.” 

Seeing teen volunteers actively participate also brought a sense of reassurance and hope, Buttar said, that the next generation is growing up with empathy, compassion, and a deep sense of connection and respect for individuals with special needs. 

Elijah, son of Rene Sprague, with a few of

the resident volunteers.

Rene Sprague, MSN, RN, FNP-C, who coordinates the Bridge Program at Children's & Women's Hospital, has a son, Elijah, with complex medical issues who has taken part in the event for 12 years. “One of my greatest professional joys is sharing the special needs population with our resident physicians,” she said. “I love showing them how happy and productive our kiddos' lives are when they are healthy and out of the hospital. Giving our residents the opportunity to see the fruits of their hard work is so rewarding — for them and for me.” 

First-year resident Carey Johnson, M.D., who is also a graduate of the Whiddon College of Medicine, partnered with Sprague’s son in an assisted wheelchair race where they earned first place. Volunteering at the Special Olympics deepened Johnson’s understanding of inclusion, resilience, and the power of community.  

“Being part of an event celebrating every athlete's ability and determination reminded me that success is about courage, effort and heart,” Johnson said. “I was inspired by the athletes’ enthusiasm and the genuine joy they brought to every event, regardless of the outcome. This experience was a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are. Those 'disabilities' are only labels, not limitations.” 

Lucas promoted to director of student records and engagement

Frank Lucas, Ed.D.

After serving the Whiddon College of Medicine for more than 10 years, Frank Lucas, Ed.D., is taking on a leadership role with a broader impact. 

Lucas graduated from the University of South Alabama in May with a Doctor of Education in higher education leadership, and he was promoted from senior associate registrar to director of student records and engagement.

“This position is an opportunity to expand my focus beyond records management and to enhance the overall student experience,” he said. “As the College of Medicine continues to grow, it's important that our processes evolve to meet the needs of our students. I'm eager to help shape that progress, working closely to ensure our students have the right tools, services and support to help them succeed. I'm thankful that the Whiddon College of Medicine has entrusted me with this responsibility.”

“Frank has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to our students and their success,” said John V. Marymont, M.D., MBA, dean of the Whiddon College of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs. “Earning his doctorate reflects that same drive to grow and lead. This new role is a natural progression for him, and I’m confident he’ll continue to make a meaningful impact on our students and the College community. We’re incredibly proud of him.”

In his previous positions at the Whiddon College of Medicine, Lucas played a key role in guiding medical students on their path to becoming physicians. These experiences broadened his perspective beyond records management, exposing him to areas such as student affairs, financial aid, advising, and other support services that promote student success from enrollment through graduation.

“This comprehensive view of medical education motivated me to pursue a terminal degree, strengthening my capacity to assist both students and the institution,” he said.

Pursuing a doctorate wasn’t part of his original plan, Lucas said, but it aligned with his long-term career goals. The decision became clear with support and encouragement from his supervisor, Kelly Roveda, M.D., his colleagues and leadership in the College of Medicine.  

“It’s a rewarding feeling to have completed the program, especially balancing it with a full-time job and an accelerated schedule,” he said. “While I'm still adjusting, completing it has sparked a deeper interest in continuing my research and exploring other areas of interest. The program truly shaped me into a practitioner-scholar, thanks to the guidance of the faculty in the College of Education and Professional Studies.”

“What I'll miss most is the sense of community,” he added. “The bond my cohort members and I built was instrumental, providing a strong support system for each other.”

Prior to joining USA, Lucas served as the assistant registrar at Spring Hill College. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of Mobile, and a master’s degree in liberal arts and sciences from Spring Hill College. 

Medical student selected for national Otolaryngology Future Scholars Program

Ian Singer

Second-year medical student Ian Singer was one of only five students nationwide selected for the Otolaryngology Future Scholars Program at the University of Minnesota Medical School. 

Otolaryngology focuses on treating the ears, nose and throat.  

During the program, he was able to closely observe a variety of operations, studying how experts perform. He also learned the necessary tips about residency applications and proper etiquette for operating rooms.  

“My experience was very eye opening,” Singer said. “I knew a good bit about otolaryngology prior to going but being able to see the wide variety of surgical procedures that they do up close was amazing.” 

With access to many social events, students were also able to network with other students and professionals. “My favorite part of the program was interacting with the faculty, residents, and the other future scholars,” he said. 

Singer initially became fascinated with otolaryngology when he attended a lecture by an oral maxillofacial surgeon who presented images of neck dissections. Participating in the program further solidified his passion as he plans to continue pursuing a career that focuses on ear, nose and throat medicine (ENT) in the future. 

“To me, participating in this program meant everything,” said Singer. “Seeing what the ENT residents and attendings did on a daily basis gave me insight I otherwise would not have had, and it only helped further my desire to pursue this specialty. I am grateful for the tips the residents provided to help me stand out during the third-year rotations, and I plan to implement these to aid in my success.” 

The Otolaryngology Future Scholars Program was established by the University of Minnesota Medical School to provide aspiring students with education in the field of otolaryngology. While only a week long, this program is enough to enrich students with the opportunity to develop professional skills through personal statement and resume writing, interview preparation and more. 

Fellow student LouAnn Crosby also participated in the program. 

EDGE for Success concludes inaugural series with reflection, growth and celebration

Participants completed the inaugural EDGE for Success leadership program. 

The Whiddon College of Medicine recently concluded the final session of its first EDGE for Success leadership series, bringing the experience full circle with meaningful discussion, celebration, and shared reflection. The program, designed to elevate professional growth through mentorship, leadership development, and self-discovery, has created powerful momentum across the College.

Session 6 focused on looking back at the journey while planning forward with intention. Participants reflected on what stood out most throughout the series, shared moments of growth, and discussed how they’re putting lessons into practice through their professional development plans and personal leadership goals. One of the most powerful moments came as participants described how their thinking had shifted — and how they are now showing up differently in their roles.

The data echoed those stories: participants demonstrated statistically significant growth in both leadership and self-efficacy. These results affirm the EDGE program’s purpose and impact — and speak to the remarkable talent, dedication, and growth mindset present across the institution.

Mentors, too, shared how rewarding the experience was. The relationships built throughout the series strengthened cross-functional collaboration and created lasting professional connections. As mentees presented their next steps, their growth and goals were a testament to the powerful partnerships formed with their mentors.

This first series was led by a dedicated team of five mentors: Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA, director of quality improvement in the Office of Accreditation and Planning; Marcina Lang, MPA, senior manager of COM Support Services; Amanda Arnold, MS, RDN, LD, education and training specialist; Alani Rodgers, M.Ed., assistant director of the Office of Research Education and Training; and Frank Lucas, Ed.D., director of student records and engagement in the Office of Student Affairs. Lang played a key role in the early brainstorming that helped shape the EDGE vision alongside Pierce. Both Lang and Arnold will continue to serve as mentors and co-leads of the program moving forward.

Pierce, who developed and currently co-leads the EDGE program, said, “Seeing the measurable impact of this program and the personal insights shared by participants has been incredibly meaningful. EDGE is more than a leadership program — it’s a space for people to reflect, grow, and realize the power of their own voice. This first series exceeded expectations in every way.”

The next EDGE for Success series will take place at USA Health and begin on Oct. 5. Sign up to be part of the journey. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to spotlight the voices, growth, and impact of EDGE participants throughout the Whiddon College of Medicine and USA Health.