After more than six years of leadership, Andrew J. Butler, Ph.D., will step down as dean of the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Health Professions, effective Dec. 31, 2025. Following a spring leave, Butler will assume a new role as director of the UAB Center for Engagement in Disability Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, or CEDHARS.
In his new capacity, Butler will lead the interdisciplinary center in advancing research, education and community engagement to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. CEDHARS fulfills its mission through pilot grant programs, expert-led symposia and strategic partnerships — including with the National Center on Health Physical Activity and Disability — to promote data-driven decision-making, increase access and promote health and wellness for all, and foster innovation in rehabilitation science.
“I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to lead CEDHARS, a transformational initiative that aligns so well with my strengths and passions,” Butler said. “As I look forward to the positive impact I will be able to have through the center’s important work alongside great people, I am also very proud of all the School of Health Professions has accomplished in the last six years.”
Since becoming dean in 2019, Butler has guided the school through a period of unprecedented growth and achievement. His tenure has been marked by a deep commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, student success and community impact. Under his leadership, the school reached record enrollment of more than 2,800 students and secured over $26.4 million in research funding — both historic milestones.
Butler led several major capital projects, including the transformation of the Susan Mott Webb Nutrition Sciences Building into a modern hub for learning and discovery, featuring state-of-the-art labs, a metabolic kitchen and a whole-room calorimeter. He also championed the creation of Unity Park, a green space designed to promote wellness and connection. Plans are underway for the renovation of the Learning Resource Center, which will enhance student services such as admissions, recruitment and advising.
A passionate advocate for student support, Butler helped secure the two largest endowed scholarships in the school’s history: a $500,000 scholarship in Physical Therapy and a $1 million gift from the Heersink Family — the largest single donation ever received by the school. His national leadership was recognized in 2024 with his appointment to the Board of Directors of the Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions.
“I want to thank Dr. Butler for his inspiring leadership and service as the school’s fifth dean,” said Provost Janet Woodruff-Borden, Ph.D. “His tireless commitment and bold vision have been transformative, propelling the school to new heights of excellence and impact. As we look ahead, his legacy of purpose-driven leadership will continue to shape the future of SHP.”
Butler says that, while he felt this was the right time to transition — having made the “meaningful contributions” he set out to achieve—he continues to be grateful for the opportunity to have served as dean.
“SHP is a remarkable school with a vibrant culture of interdisciplinary inspiration to reimagine what’s possible in higher education,” Butler said. “I will forever treasure my experience leading such an extraordinary community — defined by amazing students, talented faculty, dedicated staff, and a vast network of loyal alumni and friends. I am grateful for their support, passion and commitment to excellence. I’m excited to see all that UAB, SHP and CEDHARS will continue to accomplish together.”
A national search for the next dean will begin immediately. Butler emphasized that providing early notice and continuing to serve as dean through the fall is intended to ensure a smooth leadership transition and ensure SHP students, faculty and staff benefit from continuity of operations and support.