Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey announced her recent appointments to the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences (ASHS) Board, marking a significant step forward in the establishment of this newly created educational institution. The Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences, a key legislative initiative supported by Governor Ivey, aims to provide students across Alabama’s 67 counties with a specialized high school education that prepares them for careers in the healthcare sector, either directly after graduation or through further higher education.
Governor Ivey emphasized the importance of the school in addressing the state’s healthcare needs, particularly in rural areas. “The Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences will help more Alabama students open the door to their futures, and it will change the trajectory of rural health care in our state. I am proud to partner with so many capable individuals from around the state in bringing this school to fruition,” said Governor Ivey. She expressed confidence that the collaborative efforts of the board members and stakeholders would ensure the school’s successful opening for the Fall 2026 semester, ultimately benefiting the state’s healthcare landscape.
The ASHS was established through legislation that also created the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Board of Trustees. This board includes 12 members named in the founding act, with Governor Ivey responsible for appointing an additional eight members. These appointments are designed to represent each of Alabama’s congressional districts, along with one at-large member from Marengo County.
The appointees to the board are:
- Reeivice Girtman, Superintendent of Ozark City School Systems (District 1)
- Katrina Keefer, CEO of DCH Health Systems (District 2)
- Laura Grill, President and CEO of East Alabama Health (District 3)
- Jill Stork, Vice President of Alabama Power – Western Division (District 4)
- Jeff Samz, CEO of Huntsville Hospital Health System (District 5)
- Dr. Will Ferniany, Retired Former CEO of UAB Health System (District 6)
- Mike Warren, Retired Former President and CEO of Children’s of Alabama (District 7)
- Dr. Brittney Anderson, Physician and Owner of Anderson Family Care (At-Large Marengo County Resident)
These appointments are effective immediately. Governor Ivey has tasked the Demopolis community, ASHS stakeholders, and the board members with ensuring that the school is ready to begin operations for the 2026-2027 academic year.
