The original press release dated for Aug. 19, 2024, was precise: Governor Kay Ivey listed eight appointees of her choosing to the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences (ASHS) Board, stating, “I am proud to partner with so many capable individuals from around the state in bringing this school to fruition.”
Dr. Will Ferniany, the former CEO of the UAB Health System, was included on the list. The press release remained unedited for 231 days. However, following the publication of an 1819 News story that detailed Ferniany's comparison of President Donald Trump's administration to Nazi Germany, the release was edited to remove and replace his name. The updated release does not reflect or indicate that a change was made.
Below are the two versions of the same release: one as it appeared until the morning of April 7, 2025 available now via the Internet Archive, and one the same afternoon.
Original release:
Updated release:
In a phone interview, Gina Maiola, speaking on behalf of Ivey, confirmed that Ferniany was appointed but said, "[T]he appointment was rescinded the same day" due to "technical reasons." In an email statement, she elaborated, "His appointment was immediately voided due to an incorrect residency district."
The press release with Ferniany's name stated, "The appointments are effective immediately," however, Maiola insists, "he has not served on the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Board."
The press release with Ferniany's name was picked up by multiple outlets throughout the state and remains unedited on the ASHS website.
Apryl Marie Fogel is a Birmingham resident who frequently appears on and guest hosts radio programs around the state. She can be reached at [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
