Dallas Doctors to Host Black Men In White Coats Youth Summit

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DALLAS, TX — The lack of black male physicians is staggering.  Less black men applied to medical school in the year 2014 than in 1978.  Working to turn the tide, the non-profit organization DiverseMedicine Inc. will be hosting the Black Men In White Coats Youth Summit in Dallas, Texas on February 16, 2019.  This mentoring and networking event will expose students to careers in medicine.  It will take place on the campus of UT Southwestern Medical Center, and welcomes students, parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders.

Dr. Dale Okorodudu, the founder of DiverseMedicine and Black Men In White Coats, launched this campaign in 2013.  “At first it might not sound like a big deal, but the negative implications of declining numbers of black male clinicians are tremendous; beyond black men, this impacts society at large.  Healthcare is one of our nation’s largest economic and social burdens.  We’ve got to get this right on all fronts and having a diverse medical workforce is a big front.”

With dedicated time for parents, the Black Men In White Coats Summit will equip moms, dads, and caregivers with the resources necessary to usher their children to success. Dr. Okorodudu, who is also the author of How to Raise a Doctor: Wisdom From Parents Who Did It says “For some reason, we in the medical field tend to think we’re the right ones to inspire the children.  Yes, there’s some truth to that, but the reality is that for most, their parents are by far the biggest influences.  We need to empower moms and dads as much as the kids.”

Supporting this summit, UT Southwestern Medical Center looks forward to hosting students, parents, and others on their campus.  Executive Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Dr. Marc Nivet, states, “We know from experience that the only way to increase the number of black boys interested in medicine is engagement and exposure to the joys of science early on.  We are delighted to be the venue for what we believe will be both an exciting and inspiring day.”

Registration is now open for the Black Men In White Coats Youth Summit.  This event is a free event, but space is limited.  Tickets are available online only.  Click HERE to register.  All inquiries should be directed at [email protected].

Photo Caption: Dr. Dale Okorodudu speaks with high school students interested in healthcare careers. (courtesy of DiverseMedicine Inc)