Carolyn Kezar, MD MS FACP
University of Alabama at Birmingham
As we honor National Volunteer Week, we’re excited to shine a light on the inspiring individuals who give their time, energy, and heart to the mission of AAHPM. Carolyn Kezar, MD MS FACP, a dedicated hospice and palliative medicine physician from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership. Through her work with AAHPM committees, Carolyn is helping shape the future of our field. Read on to learn what drives her passion for volunteering—and why she believes there’s a place for everyone in AAHPM.
1. Can you introduce yourself and tell us what committee you’re a part of within AAHPM?
I’m a hospice and palliative medicine physician practicing both inpatient and outpatient care in the VA system in Alabama. I’ve been a passionate clinical educator throughout my career, and currently serve on the Medical Student and Resident Engagement Committee. I’ve also had the privilege of serving on the Fellowship Director Committee, where I’ve worked alongside leaders committed to shaping the future of HPM training.
2. How long have you been a member of the Academy, and how did you get involved in a volunteer position?
I’ve been a member of the Academy since I joined the HPM fellowship. I was so excited to be part of this field that I attended my first Annual Assembly before the fellowship even began. I was immediately inspired by the diversity of attendee teams learning together, specialties learning from one another. That energy stuck with me.
3. What motivated you to volunteer for a committee role?
As an early career faculty member, I started joining SIGs to build community and find connection. As I became more familiar with AAHPM, I realized there were opportunities for early career professionals to volunteer and meaningfully contribute to the organization and the broader field.
4. Why is supporting AAHPM important to you personally or professionally?
I’ve found incredible people through my involvement in AAHPM—colleagues who have become mentors, collaborators, and lifelong friends. These relationships have brought me joy and supported my own growth. I’ve also been able to bring ideas and energy back to my local community to support others in their learning and development.
5. How do you feel your committee’s work contributes to the broader mission of the Academy?
The Medical Student and Resident Engagement Committee is focused on creating pathways and spaces for trainees interested in HPM. As career decisions are happening earlier and earlier in medical training, it’s essential to create welcoming, visible entry points into the field. Similarly, through the Fellowship Director Committee, I’ve been part of important conversations about how we support trainees and training programs at a national level—ensuring excellence and alignment across our educational pipeline.
6. What keeps you engaged and motivated to contribute your time?
I love working with others who are excited about the same mission—people who are eager to build, collaborate, and grow the field. There’s a real joy in building something meaningful with others who care deeply.
7. What have you gained personally or professionally from volunteering in this capacity?
I’ve formed deep, meaningful connections with colleagues who inspire me. These relationships fuel my own motivation and encourage me to keep showing up and doing my best work.
8. How has this experience helped you connect with others in your field?
Through AAHPM, I’ve had the chance to interview and moderate panels, sit alongside leaders in our field, and have genuine conversations with pioneers in HPM. I don’t know many other specialties where junior faculty this level of access and opportunity to engage.
9. What would you say to someone who’s considering joining a committee or volunteering within AAHPM for the first time?
Don’t be intimidated—AAHPM has built-in systems to support and mentor new volunteers. There’s truly a place for everyone, and we need diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to keep growing in a field that reflects and serves all patients and communities.
10. Any final words of encouragement or insights you’d like to share with fellow members or potential volunteers?
If you’re thinking about it, take the leap. The relationships you’ll build, the perspectives you’ll gain, and the sense of purpose you’ll find are incredibly rewarding. There’s no better way to shape the future of our field than by being a part of it.