Chicago, IL – September 11, 2019

Synopsis of event: 

The evening started with cocktails and networking. Lynn McKinley-Grant, MD, FAAD kicked off the evening with a brief presentation on the Skin of Color Society. Doctors Amit G. Pandya, MD, FAAD, and Stavonnie Patterson, MD also welcomed everyone to the event. 

A Reminder: The Importance of Diversity in Dermatology

As a prelude to the American Academy of Dermatology’s Diversity Champion Workshop at the Association of Professors in Dermatology (APD) annual meeting, the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) hosted a networking event at Michael Jordan’s Steak House in Chicago, IL.  Students, residents, APD attendees and many dedicated members of SOCS gathered to socialize and remember the call for increased diversity in dermatology.  The evening started with mingling, food and drinks.  Dr. Stavonnie Patterson welcomed guests to Chicago.  Dr. Lynn McKinley-Grant then discussed SOCS as an organization, recalling the history, achievements and current activities of the organization.  Dr. Amit G. Pandya reviewed the lack of underrepresented minorities in the field of dermatology and the importance of this issue.   He encouraged guests to continue current efforts and renew our commitment to improving diversity.  It was a great kick off to the Diversity Champion Workshop.  A total of 37 persons attended.  There was a mix of students, residents, junior and senior faculty, and dermatologist in industry and private practice.  The evening was full of laughter, conversation, old friends reconnecting and new friends becoming acquainted.

The event was made possible by the generous support of Pfizer.