EDGE session centers on growth and reflection

Participants in the EDGE session focused on growth and reflection.

This week’s EDGE session focused on self-awareness, resilience, and learning agility — core leadership competencies that came to life in more ways than one. 

The session was originally developed by Alani Rodgers, M.Ed., assistant director, Office of Research Education and Training; Shannon Brown, assessment coordinator; Jenni Guerry, director of the Center for Disaster Healthcare Preparedness; and Charissa Moore, medical education evaluation coordinator. However, the session was delivered in their absence as they responded to student needs, an embodiment of the college’s commitment to prioritizing learners. The ability to adapt in real time is a hallmark of leadership, and this moment modeled exactly that. 

Even without the original presenters, the session’s message connected powerfully, offering participants meaningful space for reflection, growth, and connection. “Supporting our students is at the heart of what we do,” Rodgers said. “Even though we couldn’t be there in person, I’m proud that our session still made an impact and that our commitment to our learners was honored in the process. I was so proud to see our content still reach and resonate with the group.”

Together, the participants unpacked themes of emotional intelligence, reflection, and learning agility —what it looks like to truly lead ourselves before leading others. We reflected on the power of growth mindset and the fact that some of our hardest seasons are the ones that shape us most. Participants journaled about what centers them, and the version of themselves they feel most proud of, then explored where that version shows up, and where it sometimes gets lost.

“This session was a powerful reminder of how much clarity and courage it takes to really look inward,” said EDGE founder Melisa Pierce, MPA, Ed.D., director of quality improvement in the Office of Accreditation and Planning. “Self-reflection isn’t about dwelling on the past but it’s about learning from it so we can move forward with intention. Sometimes the moments that feel like detours or setbacks are just course corrections, guiding us toward something even better than we first imagined.”

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it's about showing up with honesty, adaptability, and a commitment to growth. The room was filled with real conversation about vulnerability, doubt, and the journey of finding our way back to center. We explored what it means to stretch beyond our comfort zones, to receive feedback with openness, and to build the resilience needed to lead ourselves and others with clarity and intention. 

As the session came to a close, participants were reminded that growth doesn’t mean perfection. It means presence. It means choosing curiosity when things feel uncertain. And it means recognizing that being a work in progress is not a limitation — it’s a leadership strength.

Medical student awarded with national scholarship at orthopaedic society meeting

Laney Smith

By Milena Mata

Medical student Laney Smith received the Medical Student Annual Meeting Scholarship at the 2025 Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society (RJOS) meeting in San Diego.  

The scholarship is awarded to medical students who show a strong interest in orthopaedic surgery and a commitment to supporting women in the field.  

“Attending the RJOS Annual Meeting gave me the chance to connect with female orthopaedic surgeons, participate in mentorship events, and learn more about the unique challenges and opportunities for women in orthopaedics,” she said. “It was an incredibly inspiring and motivating experience.” 

The Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society is a national organization that helps professionals in the orthopaedic field network and gain a deeper understanding of the industry. They hold annual meetings that focus on supporting and advancing women in orthopaedic surgery.  

“One of the most meaningful aspects of the meeting was the chance to connect with female medical students from across the country who share a passion for orthopaedics,” Smith said. “It was energizing to be surrounded by such a driven and supportive group of future surgeons. I also had the opportunity to speak with female residents and attendings who generously shared advice about the residency application process and their own paths in orthopaedics, which was incredibly valuable as I prepare for this next step.” 

The keynote speaker was Leslie Osborne, former player of the Women’s National Soccer Team. She discussed her experience with athletics. “Her message about resilience, leadership, and advocating for yourself deeply resonated with me, especially given my own background in competitive sports and my desire to bring that same mindset into a surgical career,” Smith said. 

“This experience not only reaffirmed my passion for orthopaedic surgery but also inspired me to actively support and encourage other women to explore the field. I left the meeting feeling excited to help foster that community and mentorship here at South for other females interested in orthopaedic surgery.” 

Smith’s devotion to orthopaedic surgery comes from her experience as a college athlete and her interest in anatomy and biomechanics. She was immediately drawn to its emphasis on problem-solving and full mobility restoration. 

“I’m especially passionate about pediatric orthopaedics, where I’ve seen how early intervention can drastically improve a child’s quality of life and long-term outcomes,” said Smith. “There’s something incredibly meaningful about helping children get back to doing the things they love, whether that’s playing sports, going to school, or just being active with friends.” 

Her mentor Tyler McDonald, M.D., pediatric orthopaedic surgeon, has played a large role in her success. He has helped guide her through the exploration of research opportunities. He has also helped jumpstart her networking by connecting her with successful women in the field.  

“The people in orthopaedics have also made a lasting impression on me,” she said. “The mentorship I’ve received from residents and attendings has been incredibly motivating, and I’m excited to one day contribute to that supportive community and help others find their place in this field.” 

In addition to her academic life, Smith is a member of several student organizations. She is a Peer Academic Leader where she tutors fellow medical students. She is also a member of the Orthopedic Surgery Interest Group Executive Board, where she organizes events promoting the field, and a liaison on the Honor Council for students and faculty. 

The Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society provides a number of scholarships and grant opportunities for active members. 

Kilgo recognized with teaching award from American Academy of Neurology

William Kilgo, M.D.

By Michelle Ryan

William Kilgo, M.D., an associate professor of neurology at the Whiddon College of Medicine at the University South Alabama and a neurologist at USA Health, recently received a national award that recognizes his commitment and service as an educator. 

He was presented a 2025 A.B. Baker Teacher Recognition Award by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) at the organization’s 77th annual meeting this month in San Diego, California. 

“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized by the American Academy of Neurology with a teaching award,” Kilgo said. “Neurology is a specialty that medical students may only see for four weeks in the entirety of their medical training, so we all take the responsibility of teaching very seriously.” 

The AAN, the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals, with more than 40,000 members, is dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care, which includes diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, migraine, multiple sclerosis, concussion, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. 

Kilgo, the director of the neurology residency program, specializes in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease affecting the nervous system. He serves as the director of the Neuroimmunology and MS Clinic, one of the only clinics recognized in the state of Alabama by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society as a Partner in MS Care. He is an active member of the AAN with a special interest in advocacy and public policy.  

“To all the medical students and residents I’ve worked with, thank you for the opportunity to be involved in your medical education,” said Kilgo, who has received several teaching honors from graduating classes over the years. “I will always appreciate this award.”

Incorporated in 1948, the AAN recognizes excellent teachers for their contributions to improving neurology now and in the future. 

Teaching binds students, residents, faculty, other clinicians, researchers, and even patients together and helps make their daily work more meaningful, notes the organization. The award demonstrates respect and appreciation for neurologic teaching. 

Kilgo attended medical school at the Whiddon College of Medicine, where he also completed his residency training in neurology. He followed that with a fellowship in neurology with a focus on neuroimmunology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He joined the USA Health department of neurology in 2018. 

Wheeler joins the Office of Accreditation and Planning

Wendy Wheeler

Wendy Wheeler recently joined the Office of Accreditation and Planning at the Whiddon College of Medicine as a program coordinator. In her role, she supports a wide range of accreditation and student support-related initiatives and provides critical administrative coordination across departmental priorities. She assists with document preparation, scheduling, communication, and logistical planning for LCME accreditation processes, and plays a key role in enhancing operational efficiency using tools like Asana to streamline workflows and improve team organization.

With more than 30 years of professional experience in administrative management, finance, and organizational planning, Wheeler brings a wealth of practical knowledge and service-centered leadership to the College. She has already made a strong impression — jumping in with confidence, mastering complex systems quickly, and providing immediate structure to ongoing projects.

“I’m honored to join the Whiddon College of Medicine and be part of a team so deeply committed to academic excellence and student success,” Wheeler said. “It’s exciting to contribute to the behind-the-scenes work that supports such meaningful outcomes, especially at the institution where I once studied. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back.”

A Mobile native, Wheeler studied leisure studies with a concentration in hospitality and hotel management at the University of South Alabama and has also earned licensure in real estate. She brings previous experience in parish administration, financial management, real estate, and property oversight, and has been deeply engaged in volunteer service with organizations including McKemie Place, Fostering Together Gulf Coast, Family Promise, and Mobile Baykeeper.

Wheeler’s thoughtful approach and steady professionalism are already contributing to the continued success of the College’s accreditation efforts and its broader mission to foster excellence in medical education.

“Wendy hasn’t missed a beat since day one,” said Tim Gilbert, Ed.D., associate dean of accreditation and planning. “She’s a perfect fit —thorough, organized, and proactive. Her ability to bring order to complex tasks and anticipate what needs to be done has already made a difference in how our team functions. She’s an incredible asset.”