Symphony of Elements

Written By Mallory Barnett

Board & Chairpersons

Dr. Doug Rigney – Board Member & PR Chairperson

Dr. Doug Rigney has dedicated his career to serving the engineering and education communities. His professional experience includes leadership roles in higher education and information technology:

  • Chief Information Officer, Samford University (2014–2020)

  • Vice President for Information Technology, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) (2009–2014)

  • Vice President for Student Affairs, UAB (2006–2009)

  • Special Assistant to the Provost, UAB (2004–2006)

  • Professor of Biomedical and Materials Engineering, UAB (1990–2006)

Allen Bolton – Finance Chairperson

With a distinguished career in financial administration and research management, Allen Bolton has held several key positions at UAB:

  • Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration (2014–2020)

  • Senior Associate Dean for Finance & Administration, School of Medicine

  • Executive Administrator, Comprehensive Cancer Center

  • Director of Community Affairs, Comprehensive Cancer Center

  • Deputy Director, Injury Control Research Center

Following his tenure at UAB, he served as:

  • Executive Vice President (Interim), Southern Research

  • Interim Senior Vice Chancellor for Finance & Administration, University of Tennessee

Martin (Marty) Connors – Governmental Affairs Chairperson

Marty Connors has been an influential leader in the Birmingham community. His extensive involvement includes:

  • Past Chairman, Alabama Republican Party

  • President of the Board, Birmingham International Center

  • Member, Birmingham Sister Cities Commission

  • Founder, M.J. Connors Consulting

John Cassimus – Board Member & Fundraising Chairperson

With a background in materials science and business, John Cassimus has made significant contributions to both the engineering and local business sectors. His career includes:

  • Degree in Materials Science and Engineering, UAB

  • Telecommunications Industry, Southwire

  • Plant Manager, various locations

  • Owner, The Peanut Depot building on Morris Avenue, preserving a family legacy dating back to 1907

  • Local Businessman

Dr. Brian Pillay – Composite Materials Chairperson

Dr. Brian Pillay has been a key figure in Birmingham’s engineering and research community since his arrival from South Africa in 2003. His expertise in composite materials and advanced manufacturing is demonstrated through his roles at UAB:

  • Professor of Engineering, UAB

  • Former Chair, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, UAB

  • Director, Manufacturing Processing and Advanced Development (MPAD) Center

  • Leader in National Committees, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in research and development

Mallory Barnett
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Dr. Raymond Thompson