Diversity and the Academy
The American Academy of Dermatology advances inclusion by removing barriers to care, learning, and participation in our specialty. Our initiatives are open to all and focus on access, education, mentorship, and leadership development — especially in underserved communities and dermatology deserts.
The Academy has taken several steps and implemented initiatives over the years to foster an inclusive dermatology workforce and improve access to high-quality dermatologic care for all patients. Building on this work, the AAD’s Advancing Inclusivity in Dermatology (2025-2030) strategy focuses on three key priorities:
Physician and patient education: Providing unbiased, evidence-based clinical, professional, and patient education that supports high-quality, compassionate care and helps address health disparities.
A culture of inclusivity and belonging: Creating opportunities for all members to connect, contribute, and thrive while promoting diverse perspectives and experiences throughout the Academy.
An inclusive workforce: Supporting pathways, leadership development, and professional growth opportunities that strengthen the dermatology workforce and expand access to care for medically underserved communities.
Learn more about the Academy’s historical commitment to inclusivity.
Learn more about the Academy's diversity initiatives
Explore our Pathways program to expand access, mentorship, and early exposure, supporting a skilled and inclusive dermatology workforce.
Resources to help dermatologists strengthen patient communication, improve care for all populations, and support inclusive, barrier-free practice.
Participate in the DermCatalyst workshop to advance access-focused outreach, exchange ideas, and share effective practices.
The program offers students hands-on exposure to dermatology through a one-on-one mentorship experience with a dermatologist.
An Inclusivity Champion is a dermatologist who expands access, mentorship, and early exposure, supporting an inclusive and skilled dermatology workforce.
The mentorship is open to a variety of practice settings, including academic, private practice, research, surgical dermatology, etc.
The John Kenney Jr., MD Lifetime Achievement Award and Lectureship recognizes dermatologists for their treatment of medically underserved populations.
The A. Paul Kelly, MD Research Award and Lectureship recognizes outstanding lifetime contributions to research improving care and outcomes for patients with skin of color.
The AAD is a collaborator on Project IMPACT, which is intended to help ensure that those who treat dermatologic conditions can recognize them in skin of color.
Learn to provide excellent, evidence-based care for patients with varied skin tones through this practical, clinically focused curriculum.
All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology
Supported by:
