The Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) is pleased to announce that Sebastian Alston, MD, has been named interim associate dean of clinical sciences, effective August 15. Dr. Alston joined ACOM in February 2013 as professor of pathology and he will serve in the interim role while a national search for permanent associate dean is conducted.

“Dr. Alston has been an instrumental part of ACOM’s success through his course leadership, teaching, mentorship and service on numerous committees and as a faculty advisor,” James C. Jones, DO, FACEP, ACOM Dean, said. “He demonstrates a steadfast commitment to leadership and medical education, both important cornerstones of our college, and we are appreciative of his willingness to serve in this interim role.”

Dr. Alston is a native of Henderson, N.C., and received his Bachelor of Arts degree with honors in chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He earned his medical degree from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Alston completed a residency in anatomic pathology and neuropathology and a fellowship in cerebrovascular diseases at Duke University Medical Center.

Dr. Alston has been on faculty at University of Virginia School of Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, and Florida State University College of Medicine. His previous administrative appointments have included director of Biomedical Problems Curriculum and assistant dean of Medical Education at Mercer, and associate dean of Medical Education and director of the Office of Medical Education at Florida State. Other activities have included serving as a local medical examiner in North Carolina and Virginia, medical consultant for Social Security Disability in Florida and Georgia, and visiting faculty at Tulane University School of Medicine and St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada.

Dr. Alston is a past officer and current member of the Group for Research in Pathology Education and a committee member of the Association of Medical Education in Europe (AMEE), Best Evidence in Medical Education (BEME).

Heath Parker, DO, will serve as associate dean of clinical sciences until August 14, at which time he will transition into a part-time faculty role as associate professor of internal medicine and pediatrics. Dr. Parker will continue to serve as chair of pediatrics.