Blogs

Russell Boles, MBA
Department Business Administrator
University of Mississippi School of Medicine

How long have you been a member of AAIM?

I have been a member for about eight years.

What is your favorite part of your job? 

I enjoy interacting with the broad base of people within the department and across the medical center.  It is always interesting getting different perspectives from physicians, staff, and others that come from different backgrounds, specialties, etc.  I really enjoy getting to work on various projects and not have such a repetitive job.

How has the AAIM membership been of value to you and your career? 

My first year in the department I was able to attend the annual meeting in Phoenix, AZ and enrolled in the new administrators training class.  That session really provided a lot of valuable information and was when I realized how valuable this organization can be for people in my role.  I have learned so much from other administrators associated with AAIM.  I find that most of us are faced with the same challenges and no one has all the answers.  Everyone I’ve interacted with has been helpful and getting new ideas from others to help strengthen your organization is invaluable.

What or Who inspires you and why?

I am inspired by people who are willing to help others and sacrifice for the common good.  Whether its providers at academic health centers taking care of underserved populations, teachers, our military, or our first responders. There are so many people who are spending their lives trying to help others and I find that inspiring.  Having a mission of helping others is one of the primary reasons I chose to work at UMMC.

What advice would you give to those who wish to pursue a career in this industry? 

You need to be flexible.  This industry is constantly changing (as we all know during this time of COVID-19) and you must be able to adapt to the environment. 

What is your favorite book or movie? 

Although there are better movies being made currently my favorite movie is Star Wars.  I had never seen anything like it at the time and was absolutely blown away.