MOBILE, Ala. – The Johnson M. Haynes Jr., M.D. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center recently announced two leadership promotions. Antwan Hogue, M.D., was named the center’s medical director, and Ardie Pack-Mabien, Ph.D., FNP-BC, was named director. Both had been serving in interim roles since Haynes’ passing in December 2022.

In addition, Hogue is a senior hospitalist and associate professor of internal medicine at the University of South Alabama’s Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, where he completed medical school. After a residency at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Hogue returned to his hometown of Mobile and USA Health.

“Dr. Hogue is a dedicated and compassionate clinician-leader who brings valuable perspective and insights into the role,” said Nasser Lakkis, M.Sc.-M.D. FACC, chair of USA Health’s department of internal medicine. “He will continue the tradition of excellence that started under Dr. Haynes, and he is committed to upholding the highest standards of care to our sickle cell patients.”

Hogue met Haynes during his undergraduate years at USA. “I understand that I have giant shoes to fill,” he said. “I am honored to have worked alongside him and to have witnessed many of the strides he made throughout his career.”

Pack-Mabien, who was named director of the center, has served as a nurse practitioner specializing in pediatrics and internal medicine there since 1997.

“She is an administrative director who clearly understands the cultural, social and healthcare nuances relevant to those affected by the condition,” Lakkis said. “She is pivotal to our robust research portfolio in sickle cell disease at USA. We are very fortunate to have her.”

Pack-Mabien also worked closely with Haynes. In 2012, they and others at the center developed the pediatric to adult care transition program, which helps younger patients learn the importance of continuity of treatment in their next stage of life.

“In his honor and out of great respect for Dr. Haynes, the staff and I are highly motivated to continue his legacy,” she said. “We are highly focused on providing quality, compassionate, and evidence-based care for our patients as well as promoting sickle cell awareness in the community.”