Presidential citations

2025-2026 Executive Committee Leadership

Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and as President-elect, you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the organization’s strategic direction, providing thoughtful leadership in key decisions and governance — always with a steady, insightful, and calm demeanor.

Bruce A. Brod, MD, MHCI, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors, you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the organization’s strategic direction, providing thoughtful leadership in key decisions and governance — while always carefully and thoughtfully considering all aspects of an issue.

Kevin D. Cooper, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Vice President, you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the strategic direction of the organization, offering thoughtful leadership in core decision-making and governance — while consistently thinking outside the box to develop innovative solutions to challenges.

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee, and Board of Directors, you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the strategic direction of the organization, providing thoughtful leadership in core decision-making and governance — while consistently demonstrating full engagement and an unwavering willingness to go above and beyond.

Lawrence J. Green, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors, you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the strategic direction of the organization, offering thoughtful leadership in core decision-making and governance — while bringing humor and levity that enriched the team and strengthened its camaraderie.

Keyvan Nouri, MD, MBA, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Secretary Treasurer you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the strategic direction of the organization, providing thoughtful leadership in core decision-making and governance — while always finding the very best in everyone and in every situation.

Sabra Sullivan, MD, PhD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary service as a 2025–2026 member of the American Academy of Dermatology’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Assistant Secretary Treasurer, you have demonstrated unwavering support for the President and the strategic direction of the organization, providing thoughtful leadership in core decision-making and governance — while always adding an insightful perspective with a calm softspoken demeaner.

Distinguished Leadership in Dermatology in the United States

Pamela S. Allen, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership as Professor and Chair of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. You directed the Mark Allen Everett, MD, Skin of Color Symposium, an educational initiative designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of clinicians and allied professionals across the full spectrum of skin of color and ethnic skin care, including clinical, cosmetic, hair, and procedural dermatology. Through this symposium, you have advanced efforts to address healthcare disparities and promote more inclusive, equitable dermatologic care.

Daniel D. Bennett, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing the specialty of dermatology. Your distinguished service and meaningful contributions as Co-chair of the AAD Ad Hoc Task Force on Access to Care and Community Outreach and the AADA Ad Hoc Task Force on Sustaining Physician Practices for Senior Citizen Care are shaping the future of our profession.

With vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to patient and physician advocacy and professional excellence, you have helped chart a path forward for the field and for the communities we serve.

Harold J. Brody, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your distinguished career spanning over four decades, marked by leadership roles in major dermatologic societies, authorship of key textbooks, and pioneering work in chemical peeling and dermatologic surgery and as a mentor widely recognized for your teaching excellence which has contributed to the advancement of dermatology through education, publication, and advocacy.

Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your longstanding dedication to dermatology, including your transformative leadership as Immediate Past President of the American Academy of Dermatology. Through your vision and dedication, you have strengthened and unified the profession, worked tirelessly to expand access to high-quality dermatologic care for underserved populations, and advanced skin of color dermatology worldwide. 

Lisa A. Garner, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your longstanding dedication to dermatology, including impactful leadership in your private practice and within numerous professional organizations. Your influential service as American Academy of Dermatology Vice President, leadership in the field of contact dermatitis, and role as a mentor and advocate — especially for women in dermatology — underscore your significant and sustained contributions to the specialty.

Jeffrey P. Jacobs, MD, FACS, FACC, FCCP

In recognition of seven years of dedication to advancing the American Academy of Dermatology's clinical data registry, DataDerm.

Douglas W. Johnson, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your high standards in dermatology through your rare combination of clinical brilliance, deep compassion, and decades of selfless service to underserved populations in Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. As both an internist and dermatologist, you are a widely respected expert — particularly in Hansen’s Disease — who treats patients regardless of insurance status, travels to remote areas to teach and care for those in need, and remains a humble, generous presence in the dermatologic community.

Sewon Kang, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your distinguished career as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in modern dermatology. As the Noxell Professor and Chair of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Dermatologist-in-Chief at Johns Hopkins Hospital, you have made transformative contributions across clinical care, research, education, professional leadership, and academic publishing.

Martin Kassir, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership as President of the International Society of Dermatology, in advancing global dermatologic education and collaboration. Through your visionary initiatives, you have strengthened international partnerships that promote innovation, equity, and excellence in skin health worldwide. Your dedication to fostering cross-cultural exchange and mentorship has profoundly impacted the next generation of dermatologists and the field as a whole.

Elizabeth A. Kiracofe, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your unwavering advocacy, visionary leadership, and enduring commitment to service, you have led the record-breaking Art of Skin Gala, advanced national initiatives in clinical trial inclusivity, and championed mentorship, philanthropy, and the founding of free clinics for underserved communities.

Temitayo A. Ogunleye, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership as President of the Philadelphia Dermatologic Society, during which you: 1) revitalized the Society’s bylaws to align with its current mission, governance structure, and contemporary professional practices; 2) expanded the Society’s mission to include community service initiatives that promote public engagement and dermatologic health outreach; and 3) successfully guided the leadership transition to a new Executive Director after more than 30 years, while laying the foundation for enhanced member engagement through the reintroduction of hybrid educational meetings and in-person social events.

Ginette A. Okoye, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership as Professor and the first woman Chair of the Department of Dermatology at the Howard College of Medicine. You have advanced the department’s academic excellence through innovative education, groundbreaking research, and compassionate patient care. Under your leadership, the department has strengthened its commitment to inclusive excellence, expanded mentorship opportunities for students and residents, and fostered collaborations that elevated Howard’s legacy of excellence in dermatology and service to underrepresented communities. You are a recipient of the American Academy of Dermatology’s 2023 Mentor of the Year Award, the 2021 Patient Care Hero Award, and a Volunteerism Award.

Rebecca Vasquez, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership in the specialty of dermatology specifically for: 1) advancing global health equity facilitating collaboration between the Skin of Color Society, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), and pharmaceutical partners to ensure equitable global access to dermatological medication and care; 2) supporting humanitarian dermatology and receiving the International League of Dermatological Societies Certificate of Appreciation for your work in community engagement and improving health equity; and 3) commitment to inclusive leadership co-directing the AAD Diversity Champion Workshop to provide leadership training focused on inclusivity, which also strengthened collaboration among dermatology societies.

Distinguished Women Presidents Demonstrating Exemplary Leadership Worldwide

Diane R. Baker, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of dermatology. Through your expertise, innovation, and mentorship, you exemplify what it means to be a true leader in this specialty. Your impact as a past President of the American Academy of Dermatology and beyond, will be felt for generations to come.

Wilma F. Bergfeld, MD, FACP, FAAD

In recognition of being the first woman President of the American Academy of Dermatology which highlighted your exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of dermatology. Your contributions have advanced clinical practice, inspired peers, and elevated the standard of care for patients. Through your expertise, innovation, and mentorship, you exemplify what it means to be a true leader in this specialty. Your impact will be felt for generations to come.

Lynn A. Drake, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of dermatology. As a past President of the American Academy of Dermatology, your steadfast commitment to advocacy was exemplified through the successful reorganization of the Washington Office and your strategic efforts to support our international members — identifying critical needs and setting clear, actionable goals shaped by the outcomes of the International Retreat held under your leadership.

Boni E. Elewski, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of dermatology. Through your expertise, innovation, and mentorship, you have exemplified the power of unity and the spirit of volunteerism within our specialty. Your impact as a past President of the American Academy of Dermatology and beyond, will resonate for generations to come.

Yolanda Gilaberte, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your historic achievement as the first woman to serve as President of the Academia Española de Dermatología y Venereología (AEDV) since its founding in 1909, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of women in medicine. During your presidency, you have championed initiatives to promote the role of women in dermatology, while also advancing research and care in diseases that disproportionately affect women, bringing much-needed attention and innovation to these critical areas. Under your leadership, the AEDV has strengthened its position as the premier hub for learning, collaboration, and scientific exchange, ensuring that the Society not only reflects the excellence of Spanish dermatology but also contributes meaningfully to the international community.

Tamara Wang Griffiths, MD, FRCP, FAAD

In recognition of your exemplary national leadership in dermatology practice and education as President of the British Association of Dermatology. Your pioneering international work and advocacy in cosmetic dermatology regulation and research has increased patient safety and elevated professional standards. Your distinguished career has been committed to excellence and innovation in dermatology.

Branka Marinovic, MD, PhD, IFAAD

In recognition of your exceptional impact on dermatology, both nationally and internationally. In Croatia, you have advanced patient care and medical education as Head of the Department of Dermatology and Venereology at the University Hospital Center Zagreb and the University of Zagreb School of Medicine, where your leadership has shaped the field for future generations. Internationally, your election by your peers as President of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology stands as a testament to your pan-European respect and influence. In this role, you have championed strategic education, advocacy, and innovation, bridging science, policy, and professional development to strengthen dermatology across Europe.

Suzanne M. Olbricht, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to excellence in the field of dermatology. Your contributions have advanced clinical practice, inspired peers, and elevated the standard of care for patients. Through your expertise, innovation, and mentorship, you exemplify what it means to be a true leader in this specialty. Your impact as a past President of the American Academy of Dermatology and beyond, will be felt for generations to come.

Gabriele Weichert, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your exceptional impact on dermatology as President of the Canadian Dermatology Association, where your visionary leadership has advanced advocacy and strengthened the voice of dermatology across Canada. Through the landmark “More than Skin Deep” initiative, you have confronted systemic challenges such as the national dermatology wait-time crisis with thoughtful and actionable solutions. Your efforts to improve patient care, reduce delays in access, and shape health policy reflect a deep commitment to ensuring high-quality, equitable dermatologic care for all Canadians.

Esteemed Women Presidents and Leaders Across Sister Societies

Victoria H. Barbosa, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your achievements as Immediate Past President of the Skin of Color Society and your visionary leadership. You launched several initiatives, including: 1) the Dermatologists of Tomorrow Scholarship, which offers scholarships and mentoring to fourth-year medical students applying for dermatology residency; 2) the Center for Leadership Learning Collaborative, designed to train and support emerging leaders in dermatology; and 3) the President’s Book Club, which provides skin of color dermatology textbooks to first- and third-year residents throughout the United States.

Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, FAAD

In recognition of your remarkable year as President of the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and your focus on service through the creation and launch of SOCS Serves, a novel national and international service program, and global expansion through the launch of the Global Council with symposia at dermatology conferences across 6 continents, and membership.

Pearl E. Grimes, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your outstanding leadership as President of the Global Vitiligo Society, and your visionary initiatives including: 1) launching Camp Victory for Children with Vitiligo, providing an empowering experience for affected children and their parents; 2) establishing the Physician Education Summit, advancing knowledge of vitiligo pathogenesis and treatment within the field of Dermatology; and 3) creating the Global Support Platform, uniting and supporting individuals with vitiligo across the world.

Sarah C. Jackson, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your outstanding leadership as President of the Women’s Dermatologic Society, during which you: 1) advanced the Society’s mission to support and empower women in dermatology through mentorship, education, and leadership development; 2) strengthened the organization’s infrastructure by enhancing member engagement and expanding access to programs and initiatives; and 3) developed a new strategic plan to ensure the continued growth and future success of the Society.

Chesahna Kindred, MD, MBA, FAAD

In recognition of your remarkable and sustained dedication to the Dermatology Section of the National Medical Association (NMA), and for your transformational leadership as Past Chair, serving as the driving force behind the organization’s revitalization and innovation. Under your guidance, the NMA established a formal presence at the Student National Medical Association conference, launching dermatology-focused programming that now attracts over 100 attendees for panel discussions. You also guided the John A. Kenney and Paul A. Kelly Research Symposium, which has grown to accept six medical students and four residents annually, and now receives over 80 abstract submissions.

Kavita Mariwalla, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your long-standing dedication to the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery and your persistence through challenges in advancing the Society’s mission and fostering excellence in dermatologic surgery.

Hope Mitchell, MD, FAAD

In recognition of your achievements as Chair of The National Medical Association, Dermatology Section, you have established the Resident Physician Committee to foster a supportive community focused on academic achievement, financial literacy, understanding industry partnerships, and professionalism. You also co-launched the NMA partnership at the Annual Medical Education Conference to educate medical students interested in dermatology and developed the Research Committee, along with its monthly journal club to help medical students and residents interpret and present research data.

Exemplary International Leadership

Paulo R. Barbosa, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your outstanding leadership as Chair of the Brazilian Congress of Dermatologic Surgery, organized by the Brazilian Society of Dermatologic Surgery in Salvador, Brazil. With the central theme of “Ethnic Skin and Dermatologic Surgery,” you guided an important forum that advanced the field by fostering collaboration, encouraging innovation, and strengthening professional development. Through your vision and dedication, the congress has made a lasting contribution to the progress of dermatologic surgery in Brazil and its influence worldwide.

Leandra d'Orsi Metsavaht, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your outstanding leadership as Chair of the 78th Sociedade Brasileira de Dermatologia in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, the largest dermatology Congress in Latin America, with more than 4,000 dermatologists in attendance. As Chair of the meeting, you lead the scientific and organizational efforts bringing together distinguished international speakers and colleagues from around the world and introduced innovative programs such as the first dedicated session on ethnic skin.

Adebola O. Ogunbiyi, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your outstanding leadership which has profoundly shaped dermatology in Nigeria and beyond. You have served Dermatology globally as Past President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, Vice President of both the African Society of Dermatology and Venereology, the International Society of Dermatology, and Past International Board Observer to the American Academy of Dermatology. As a pioneering educator, you have guided generations of physicians and strengthened academic excellence in medical education.

Gisele Viana Oliveira, MD, MSc, PhD, IFAAD

In recognition of your exceptional leadership within international dermatologic societies in Brazil and your distinguished academic and clinical career as a renowned expert on scars. A dedicated member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) since 1999, you have demonstrated an enduring commitment to advancing global dermatologic collaboration through your service as Chair of the AAD’s International Affairs Committee and as a valued member of the Scientific Assembly Committee. You have fostered meaningful connections across the international dermatology community.

Marcia Ramos-e-Silva, MD, PhD, IFAAD

In recognition of your outstanding contributions to dermatology in Brazil and internationally. As a renowned clinician, scholar, and educator, you have trained more than 250 Brazilian residents, leaving an enduring legacy in the next generation of dermatologists. As Full Professor and Chair of Dermatology at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, you have advanced both patient care and academic excellence, positioning your department as a leading center of dermatology in Latin America. Internationally, you have served as an International Board Observer of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and as a frequent lecturer at AAD annual meetings, elevating the visibility of Brazilian dermatology on the global stage.

Reinaldo Tovo Filho, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your leadership within international professional societies, including serving as President of the Brazilian Society of Surgical Dermatology and President of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, State of São Paulo Chapter. These roles highlight your vision and commitment to advancing the specialty and strengthening its professional community globally.

International Society and Congress Leadership

Dr. Aisha Al Ali

In recognition of your distinguished leadership as President of the Oman Dermatology Society (ODS), where you have advanced dermatologic education, collaboration, and patient care across the Sultanate of Oman. Under your guidance, ODS has hosted major scientific events, including the 9th OmanDerm International Conference & Exhibition in Muscat, fostering professional growth and knowledge exchange. You have also championed stronger coordination between primary care and dermatology services, enhancing early diagnosis and improving patient outcomes nationwide. Through your vision and dedication, you continue to elevate the standards of dermatologic practice and inspire excellence within Oman’s medical community.

Dr. Ayman Al Naeem

In recognition of your exemplary leadership as President of the Emirates Dermatology Society (EDS), you have advanced dermatologic education, collaboration, and advocacy across the UAE. Under your stewardship, EDS has organized major scientific gatherings, including the 9th Annual EDS Conference in Dubai, fostering professional growth through innovative academic and aesthetic programs. You have championed impactful public-health campaigns such as “ECZPLORE” and “Don’t Rest Until It’s Clear,” promoting awareness of eczema and psoriasis and highlighting their psychosocial effects. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, you continue to elevate dermatologic care and inspire excellence within the regional and global dermatology community.

Khaled Salem Al-Nuaimi, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your outstanding service and visionary leadership as President, 10th International Congress of Medical Excellence in Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine (MEIDAM). Under your guidance, the meeting fostered exceptional international collaboration and scientific exchange, bringing together leaders and experts from around the world with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa. For the past two years, MEIDAM has featured a leadership session led by an American Academy of Dermatology and three scientific sessions with the participation of seven distinguished U.S. speakers in 2025. Through your efforts, you have advanced education and global partnerships in dermatology and aesthetic medicine.

Carlos Baptista Barcaui, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your visionary leadership as President of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, guiding one of the nation’s foremost medical organizations in its mission to advance skin health. Under your direction, the Society has launched impactful nationwide campaigns promoting public awareness, education, and prevention of skin diseases. Your dedication has strengthened the role of dermatology in public health and inspired continued excellence within the Brazilian and global dermatology communities.

Xing-Hua Gao, MD, PhD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership in promoting dermatologic research, education, and international collaboration as President of the Chinese Dermatology Society and Professor at China Medical University in Shenyang, China. Your contributions have advanced scientific understanding and clinical excellence in dermatology throughout China and beyond. Through your dedication and vision, you have strengthened global partnerships that enhance innovation and elevate the standard of skin health worldwide.

Hoon Kang, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your exemplary leadership, your steadfast commitment to education, collaboration, and advocacy and advancing dermatology in Korea and beyond as President of the Korean Dermatological Association (KDA) in its 80th year. Under your guidance, the KDA has strengthened international partnerships, expanded professional development through innovative CME programs, and promoted the “Healthy Skin, Healthy Life” campaign, underscoring the vital role of dermatologic health in overall well-being. Your vision and service continue to inspire excellence and unity within the global dermatology community.

Omar Lupi, PhD, IFAAD

In recognition of your outstanding leadership as President of the Ibero Latin American College of Dermatology (CILAD), and a leading voice in global dermatology. During your presidency of CILAD, you have undertaken the remarkable task of visiting all 23 countries that comprise CILAD, strengthening unity and advancing dermatologic collaboration throughout the region and the world.

Jorge Ocampo Candiani, MD, IFAAD

In recognition of your extraordinary dedication and visionary leadership as President of the 2027 World Congress of Dermatology and securing Guadalajara as the host city and planning the Congress. Your relentless commitment and tireless efforts have been instrumental in uniting the global dermatology community and elevating the field on an unprecedented international stage. Your exemplary service and unwavering passion have set a standard of excellence that will inspire generations to come. 

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