Beginning in fall 2025, UAB’s HR Learning and Development team will take the reins of the Developing Emerging Administrative Leaders program. DEAL, which launched in 2022, exposes promising staff members to the essential components of administrative and management positions across UAB.

Applications for the 2026 DEAL cohort are open now through Sept. 26, 2025.

Honoring visionary leadership

This transition marks a powerful collaboration between Learning and Development and the DEAL leadership team of Cynthia Joiner, Ph.D., associate professor and vice chair in the Department of Medicine, and Ryan Outman, M.S., executive officer of Finance and Administration in the Heersink School of Medicine. “From the program’s inception to its current success, their leadership has shaped DEAL into one of UAB’s most prestigious and sought-after development opportunities,” said Susan Coan, executive director of Learning and Development.

“We congratulate Cynthia and Ryan on their outstanding vision and leadership,” Coan said. “Their commitment to cultivating talent and fostering innovation has built a foundation that will continue to elevate leaders across UAB.”

Amber Anderson Grant, organizational development specialist in Learning and Development, will co-lead the program with Coan. “We’re honored to collaborate with Cynthia and Ryan and align with their goal to build strong administrative leaders who are ready to step into key roles across UAB Medicine and the university’s academic and administrative units,” Grant said. “DEAL is more than a leadership program — it’s a launchpad for careers. We’re excited to continue the momentum and legacy they’ve created.”

“It’s not just about learning — it’s about leading with purpose, confidence and vision,” Joiner said. 

 “DEAL opens doors,” Outman said. “Participants gain direct access to UAB’s top leaders, build powerful networks, and walk away ready to lead with clarity and impact. It’s a game-changer for anyone ready to take the next step.”

What sets DEAL apart?

Unlike many leadership development programs at UAB, DEAL is a self-nomination program. Applicants simply need their manager’s approval and signature to apply.

Each year, the program receives 100 to 200 applications, but only 25 to 35 participants are selected — making it a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity. Participants are drawn from both UAB and UAB Medicine, reflecting the program’s multidisciplinary reach. The curriculum spans everything from finance and clinical operations to cutting-edge hot topics, all designed to sharpen leadership acumen and strategic thinking. 

Program goals 

• Ignite leadership potential by preparing high-performing staff for impactful roles across UAB. 
• Build a dynamic network of future administrative leaders ready to shape UAB Medicine and campus units. 
• Foster meaningful connections with experienced administrators to exchange insights and best practices. 
• Provide access to powerful resources, collaborators and mentors who support growth every step of the way. 

Program features 

• Duration: 10 months (February–November) 
• Format: Monthly four-hour, in-person sessions 
• Support tools that elevate your journey: 
  • Engaging online learning modules to reinforce key concepts 
  • Tailored individual development plans to guide personal growth 
  • Group discussions and hands-on exercises that spark collaboration and innovation 

Key dates for the 2026 cohort 

• Applications open: August 2025 
• Application deadline: Sept. 26, 2025 
• Notification of acceptance: December 2025 
• Program start: February 2026 

Ready to apply? 

Visit the DEAL program website to learn more about eligibility, curriculum details and how to apply.