UAB honors U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Shelley Moore Capito for securing funds to keep lifesaving trials moving

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September 26, 2025

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) welcomed U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia) to the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center in Birmingham.

Both senators serve on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services, which Capito chairs.

The Senators’ successful efforts have resulted in UAB receiving over $100 million in NIH funding since July 30 of this year.

During their visit, UAB presented the lawmakers with the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Iron Strong medals, which are typically awarded to patients who participate in clinical trials as a symbol of their strength, resilience, and courage.

But on Thursday, Britt and Capito received the honor for their efforts to secure funding that keeps vital research moving forward to benefit those very patients.

This time, Britt and Capito received the honor for their efforts to secure funding that keeps vital research moving forward to benefit those very patients.

In July, Britt and Capito were among 14 U.S. Senators who sent a letter to Russell Vought, Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget.

The letter urged the administration to release appropriated funds for the National Institutes of Health to advance President Trump’s goals of curing diseases and improving the health of Americans.

The senators’ request focused on implementing the Fiscal Year 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, signed into law earlier this year.

The legislation includes critical NIH funding for a range of research areas, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and rare pediatric disorders.

Earlier this year, Sen. Britt received an invitation from Appropriations Chair, U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) to invite and introduce Alabama witness Dr. Barry Sleckman, Director of UAB O’Neal’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, to give testimony about the national impact of UAB’s research efforts.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].