After more than two decades of dedicated service, Tracey Cotton-Bickham is retiring from the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology, leaving behind a legacy defined by compassion, mentorship, and a deep commitment to resident education.
Cotton-Bickham’s journey into healthcare began long before she arrived at UAB. Growing up, she knew she wanted to work in the medical field, though her path was not immediately clear. After two years of college, she enlisted in the Army Reserve, where she earned her medical specialist certificate and spent eight years gaining hands-on experience in hospital settings, including at Fort Sam Houston. She also volunteered at the VA Hospital in Birmingham, where she recognized an opportunity to make a difference on the administrative side of patient care.
“With the help of the GI Bill, I went back to school for healthcare administration,” Cotton-Bickham said. “Fast forward, I got hired at UAB.”
She began her career creating patient charts in medical records before advancing to an office associate role. When a program coordinator position became available, Cotton-Bickham knew it was the right step. She ultimately spent 15 years as an education coordinator, supporting residents and helping shape the training environment.
“God had a plan for me to prosper, and I am grateful that that plan included UAB Radiation Oncology,” Cotton-Bickham said.
A career centered on people
While Cotton-Bickham played a key role in maintaining accreditation and improving program operations over the years, she said the most meaningful part of her work was the relationships she built along the way.
“The residents,” Cotton-Bickham said. “The shared laughs, the shared accomplishments, whether professional or personal. We’ve shared tears and secrets. Becoming a family with them is especially meaningful to me.”
One accomplishment that stands out for her is witnessing the naming of the Alumni Society in honor of Robert Y. Kim, M.D., a moment that reflected both the program's history and its future.
Cotton-Bickham also credits several individuals for shaping her experience, including Kim, who encouraged her to deeply understand the clinical work happening around her.
“He told me, ‘If you are going to be my assistant, you have to know and understand what I do,’” Cotton-Bickham said. “I learned that even if you don’t have a degree in a field, you can still learn something meaningful and use it to help others.”
She also highlighted Samuel Marcrom, M.D., who provided steady encouragement and support, especially during difficult personal times, as well as the many administrative colleagues who became an important part of her journey.
A nurturing presence for residents
Throughout her career, Cotton-Bickham’s approach was guided by her values, especially her nurturing nature, dependability, and spiritual faith.
“I take pride in being available to residents for whatever need arises,” she said. “I am here to serve, to encourage, to build up, and to be kind to everyone.”
She found particular joy in events that brought people together, such as residency interviews and alumni gatherings. These moments allowed her to showcase the program while also maintaining lasting connections with graduates.
Resident graduation, however, remains her favorite milestone.
“It’s not the end of a story, but the beginning of a new chapter in their ‘Book of Life,’” Cotton-Bickham said. “I love meeting their families and celebrating their success.”
Looking ahead
As she prepares for retirement, Cotton-Bickham says she will miss the daily interactions and the opportunity to watch residents grow, both professionally and personally.
“I’ll miss the hustle and bustle of interview season and graduation preparation,” Cotton-Bickham said. “And yes—even reminding residents about their P-card receipts.”
In this next chapter, she is looking forward to traveling, spending time with family, especially her grandchildren, and staying connected with former residents.
“I have a special relationship with a lot of the graduates, and I will continue fostering that,” Cotton-Bickham said.
As she steps away, Cotton-Bickham leaves a message of gratitude and encouragement for her colleagues and the UAB community.
“Working with the residency program has been a true highlight of my career,” Cotton-Bickham said. “I have no doubt that the team will continue to thrive, innovate, and achieve great things. I’ll be cheering from afar.”
Her guiding philosophy, one she leaves behind with those she has mentored, is simple yet powerful:
“Grow where you are planted.”