17th Annual Skin of Color Society Virtual iPoster Gallery
Shaping the Future
Who is the Skin of Color Society?
About SOCS
Established in 2004 by Dr. Susan C. Taylor, the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) is the global leader in skin of color dermatology, promoting awareness of and excellence within the field, through research, education, mentorship, and advocacy.
SOCS is committed to the education of health care providers and the general public in dermatologic health issues related to skin of color.
Individuals with skin of color have diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, and include those of the following ancestries: African, Asian, Hispanic/Latinx, Native Indian, Pacific Islander, as well as individuals with mixed races and/or ethnicities.
Mission
To promote awareness of and excellence within skin of color dermatology through research, education, mentorship and advocacy. We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the field of dermatology to advance patient care.
Noble Purpose
We advance skin of color dermatology to achieve health equity and excellence in patient care.
We are dedicated to increasing diversity and inclusion in dermatology.
Core Values
EQUITY: We ensure inclusivity and diversity to achieve health equities in patient care.
EXCELLENCE: We leverage our recognition and authority within dermatology, the house of medicine, and the public as experts in skin of color dermatology.
MENTORSHIP: We value mentorship as a leadership development tool to foster a diverse workforce at all levels, developing and empowering future leaders in the field.
RESEARCH and INNOVATION: We lead research and innovation through our diverse array of advanced research activities, leveraging collaborations with domestic and international corporations and organizations.
EDUCATION: We educate the public, partners, and colleagues in support of our mission and noble purpose.
Why SOCS?
Analysis of the population of the United States reveals that there will be a dramatic shift in the country’s demographics in the 21st century. The United States is rapidly becoming a country in which the majority of citizens have pigmented skin, which is also referred to as skin of color.
These changes in national and regional demographics, as well as international population shifts, underscore the need and importance of a thorough understanding of skin of color. The dermatology community may be faced with cutaneous diseases that occur more often in people with pigmented skin, present differently, inadequately understood, or are unique to this population. An increase in the body of dermatological literature concerning skin of color as well as the advancement of both basic science and clinical investigational research is necessary to meet the needs of the expanding skin of color population.
African American, Latino, Asian, Native Indian and Pacific Islander communities often have an inadequate understanding of the root causes of skin diseases that commonly affect them. Furthermore, they often face numerous challenges in their attempts to find information about these diseases. Many individuals of color adhere to misconceptions about the causes and potential cures for these diseases, and spend considerable financial resources on ineffectual non-prescription, folk, or home therapies.
Leadership
Officers President – Victoria Barbosa, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAD President-Elect – Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, FAAD Secretary/Treasurer – Shawn Kwatra, MD, FAAD Immediate Past President – Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH, FAAD
The Skin of Color Society Board of Directors Prince Adotama, MD, FAAD Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD Pamela S. Allen, MD, FAAD Naiara Barbosa, MD, FAAD Tarannum Jaleel, MD, FAAD Jenna C. Lester, MD, FAAD Janiene Luke, MD, FAAD Tiffany T. Mayo, MD, FAAD E. Nikki Pritchett, MD, MPH, FAAD Mary Thomas, DNB, FRCPC, FAAD Jane Yoo, MD, FAAD
Founding Members Victoria Barbosa, MD, FAAD Valerie D. Callender, MD, FAAD Vincent DeLeo, MD, FAAD Pearl Grimes, MD, FAAD Aditya Gupta, MD, FAAD Rebat Halder, MD, FAAD Sewon Kang, MD, FAAD A. Paul Kelly, MD, FAAD Henry W. Lim, MD, FAAD Amit G. Pandya, MD, FAAD Marta I. Rendon, MD, FAAD David Rodriquez, MD, FAAD Miguel Sanchez, MD, FAAD Richard Scher, MD, FAAD Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD
Committees & Purpose
SOCS encourages our membership to participate in achieving our mission and purpose through committee involvement.
Co-chairs | Prince Adotama, MD and Elizabeth A. Kiracofe, MD, FAAD
This committee provides strategic advice, counsel and recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding representation of society’s need for quality dermatologic care for people who have skin of color; current and emerging public policy issues impacting the provision of that care; and advancing the profession of skin of color dermatology in appropriate venues including legislative and regulatory arenas.
Co-chairs | E. Nikki Pritchett, MD, MPH, FAAD and Sumayah J. Taliaferro, MD, FAAD
To develop the resources of the Society.
Co-Chairs | Severine Cao, MD, FAAD and Sofia Chaudhry, MD, FAAD
At the 2016 SOCS annual meeting, the Diversity in Action Task Force was initiated with a primary goal to build supportive networks and resources to increase the number individuals who are underrepresented in dermatology.
Co-chairs | Tarannum Jaleel, MD and Jenna C. Lester, MD, FAAD
The DiCR mentoring task force will help develop resources and mentorship opportunities to increase the potential underrepresented minority investigators.
Co-chairs | Valerie D. Callender, MD, FAAD and Valerie M. Harvey, MD, MPH, FAAD
Support the execution of proceeding and post summit activities from the Meeting the Challenge Summit: Diversity in Dermatology Clinical Trials, that took place on June 10-11, 2022, in Washington, DC, and to organize the defining race and ethnicity in dermatology round table for 2023.
Chair | Roopal V. Kundu, MD, FAAD
This highly visible committee will work in conjunction with the Derm Foundation and other collaborative partners to help secure financial resources, evaluate grant applications, and award DEI focused mid-career awards.
Chair | Shawn G. Kwatra, MD, FAAD
Oversee SOCS finances, reserve fund and investment policy, making recommendations to the Board.
Chair | Victoria Guerra Farley, MD
Maintain the Society’s bylaws, which is the set of rules that guide its operations and activities.
Chair | Babar K. Rao, MD, FAAD
This committee will work to help secure financial resources, evaluate grant applications, and award Institutional Research Fellowship grants which will support Fellowships for physicians of color, who are disproportionately underrepresented in dermatology and medicine.
Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA
SOCS is considering launching a journal and enlisting a consulting firm/consultant that specializes in journal feasibility work to investigate further after strategic planning. This Task Force will oversee this process.
Increase publication opportunities
Co-chairs | Adrian O. Rodriguez, MD, FAAD and Mary Thomas, MBBS, FRCPC, FAAD
Review and vet membership applications prior to them going to the Board for approval.
Responsible for encouraging new international membership through national groups and international mentoring programs.
Invite Board Certified Dermatologists to join SOCS via AAD and APD.
Evaluate member benefits program.
Co-chairs | Neelam Khan, MD, MS, FAAD and Julia Mhlaba Riley, MD, FAAD
Comprehensive program that connects young physicians with an approved expert from SOCS.
Professional development meetings (in-person or virtual) 3 to 4 times per year to discuss goal-setting, practical ways to increase knowledge in skin of color and more.
To provide educational materials for individuals with skin of color.
Develop content on the SOCS website and within its LMS (DEEP) to enhance understanding of the importance of Board Certified Derm and skin of color experience.
Create public awareness campaigns to educate the public.
Revise the SOCS LMS (DEEP) so it has public/patient content.
Collaborate with patient advocacy groups.
Co-chairs | Morayo Adisa, MD and Mona Shahriari, MD, FAAD
The Skin of Color Society Physician Education Committee will be dedicated to enhancing the knowledge and expertise of healthcare professionals in the field of SOC dermatology with a specific focus on the unique and diverse needs of patients with skin of color.
The Committee will evaluate Medical Education Companies (MEC) proposals, develop physician-focused website content, curate DEEP topics and educational video content, and provide input on aspirational ideas for new initiatives to educate the Physician audience that empower dermatologists to deliver the highest standard of care for individuals with skin of color.
The Committee would collaborate with other SOCS committees to develop relevant physician-focused content alongside other key SOCS program
Chair | Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH, FAAD
Purpose: Comprised of former SOCS board presidents, the Presidents’ Council complements and supports the work of the SOCS Board of Directors. The Council may advise the current President on issues facing the association or related to its future activities. The Council is intended to take advantage of the expertise and experiences of SOCS former leaders as well as ensure a valuable link to the organization’s institutional memory.
Co-chairs | Katherine O. Ayoade, MD, PhD, FAAD and Tiffany Mayo, MD, FAAD
To advance scientific study and promote investigative research of skinof color in the basic sciences, as well as in the clinical, surgical and cosmetic areas.
To compile a database of Society members interested in conducting research.
To form liaisons with industry to promote research on issues relatedto skin of color.
Co-chairs | Crystal Aguh, MD, FAAD and Cesar Antonio Virgen, MD, PhD, FAAD
To organize and execute an annual Skin of Color Society Scientific Symposium prior to the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting.
To compile a database of Society members interested in conducting research.
To promote the education of physicians, residents, and non-physician scientists in the unique properties, reaction patterns, and diseases that occur in individuals with skin of color, by encouraging courses in skin of color and other related topics at scientific meetings and dermatology training programs.
To inform Society members of meetings with subjects pertaining to skin of color.
To promote the exchange of information and ideas concerning skin of color.
Co-chairs | Michelle Rodrigues, MBBS(Hons), FACD and Michael A. Waul, MD, FAAD
Evaluate proposals from international and national organizations interested in collaborating with SOCS.
Expand relationships with non-Derm groups
Improve relationships with other professional societies that embrace SOCS’s mission/vision
Establish formal relationships and programming with other professional societies that share SOCS’s mission/vision
To contribute to and oversee the following media and public-facing initiatives:
Ongoing media relations and the Annual SOCS Media Day
SOCS Speaks initiative
SOCS website
SOCS social media channels
SOCS branding
Co-chairs | Naiara Sbroggio Barbosa, MD, FAAD and Diane M. Jackson-Richards, MD, FAAD
Conduct an ongoing comprehensive assessment of the various proposals submitted by external organizations with the goal of creating or expanding the use of skin of color images and/or collaborate on the development of a SOC database, while also actively fostering connections to enhance representation in medical textbooks and patient education materials, such as patient pamphlets. Furthermore, assess the utilization of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in the context of skin of color (SOC) images.
Strategic Plan
In late 2020, the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) embarked on an exciting journey to conduct a comprehensive strategic planning process, involving SOCS leaders and staff, led by Tecker International, a management consulting firm. In Q1 2022, we reached finalization of our Strategic Plan, which is summarized in the following overview.
GOAL A: Dermatology will be a diverse, knowledgeable, competent, and compassionate specialty treating skin of all colors.
GOAL B: Public stakeholders will universally recognize SOCS physicians as the leaders in the field of skin of color dermatology.
GOAL C: The Skin of Color Society will lead advances in skin of color dermatology.
GOAL D: Members will recognize the Society as the gold standard medical organization for skin of color education, research, and mentorship.
Noble Purpose
We advance skin of color dermatology to achieve health equity and excellence in patient care.
We are dedicated to increasing diversity and inclusion in dermatology.
Mission
To promote awareness of and excellence within skin of color dermatology through research, education, mentorship, and advocacy. We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the field of dermatology to advance patient care.
Core Values
EQUITY: We ensure inclusivity and diversity to achieve health equities in patient care.
EXCELLENCE: We leverage our recognition and authority within dermatology, the house of medicine, and the public as experts in skin of color dermatology.
MENTORSHIP: We value mentorship as a leadership development tool to foster a diverse workforce at all levels, developing and empowering future leaders in the field.
RESEARCH and INNOVATION: We lead research and innovation through our diverse array of advanced research activities, leveraging collaborations with domestic and international corporations and organizations.
EDUCATION: We educate the public, partners, and colleagues in support of our mission and noble purpose.
Envisioned Future
The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) is globally recognized as the preeminent leader in advancing skin of color dermatology to achieve health equity and excellence in patient care. The individual and collective efforts of leaders and members of the Skin of Color Society work synergistically to advance the continued expansion and evolution of the field of skin of color dermatology.
SOCS serves as the go-to authority and source of skin of color dermatologic knowledge and expertise for patients of color, the dermatological workforce, trainees, collaborators in the medical community, industry, the media, and the public-at-large.
The Society heightens awareness, deepens understanding and bridges knowledge gaps as the leading repository of skin of color dermatology education, including information on a wide array of dermatologic conditions, challenges and issues affecting people of color.
As a result of the work of SOCS, patients of color, physicians, the field of dermatology reap ongoing benefits from a more diverse, highly competent, well-trained, culturally sensitive, and inclusive workforce that is representative of, and reaches parity with, the global population–ultimately delivering compassionate, excellent and equitable dermatologic care for all.
A continuous pipeline of dermatological students, residents and fellows is comprehensively trained in the care of diverse populations with ready access to highly skilled mentors in all aspects of skin of color dermatology (medical, cosmetic and surgical), spanning private practice, public service and academia. This significant, sustainable increase in the number and diversity of well-trained dermatologists enables us to achieve healthcare equity for patients of color, ensure excellence in patient care and introduce innovations that positively impact the entire dermatology ecosystem.
SOCS shapes the future of skin of color dermatology by providing leadership development opportunities for tomorrow’s leaders, as well as offering ongoing mentorship experiences to physicians at all career levels–resulting in the continuous evolution and growth of dermatologists and the specialty as a whole, ultimately benefiting patients of color.
Research in the field of skin of color dermatology thrives, leading to important scientific and technological discoveries and breakthroughs, including effective new treatments and even cures for complex conditions affecting people of color. Patients of color participate regularly and broadly in clinical trial research for a wide variety of new medications and treatments under investigation.
SOCS stands as the globally recognized leader in supporting skin of color research, facilitating funding for investigative study in this diverse dermatologic field. SOCS itself offers grants to support junior investigators and seasoned physician-scientists alike, whose scientific investigations advance the field and lead to better treatments and cures that will positively impact people of color.
On an ongoing basis, SOCS leverages effective partnerships with like-minded organizations to advance understanding of the science of hair, skin and internal diseases in patients of color, as well as the art of dermatology and vital healthcare considerations relevant to racially, ethnically and culturally diverse populations.
SOCS supports unified, diverse communities around the world consisting of dermatologists with expertise in, and a passion for, skin of color dermatology, who collaborate with supporting local institutions and organizations to ensure that patients of color have access to the highest quality dermatologic care in a culturally competent manner.
2023 Reflections
Welcoming Our 20th Anniversary Year with Reflections on an Extraordinary 2023!
Happy New Year! As we welcome 2024 and begin our year-long celebration of our 20th Anniversary milestone, we reflect on the remarkable accomplishments of 2023 with gratitude and pride. Thanks to the individual and collective efforts of many SOCS leaders, members, supporters and collaborators, the Skin of Color Society experienced a year of exceptional progress in support of our mission to change the landscape for people of color through research, education, mentorship and advocacy. Several signature SOCS programs and newer initiatives made uniquely important contributions to the field this past year.
December 2023: The SOCS Meeting the Challenge Summit: Population Descriptors in Dermatology Research Studies
Continuing in our commitment to increase diversity in dermatology research studies and clinical trials, SOCS successfully presented our second Meeting the Challenge Summit in December 2023, this time focusing on population descriptors that best describe various populations under study.
As the second in a series, the Summit convened an esteemed, diverse group of 116 stakeholders, including skin of color dermatology leaders, researchers, clinicians, regulators, dermatologists-in-training, industry representatives, geneticists, dermatology journal editors, and an anthropologist. Co-chaired by Valerie M. Harvey, MD, MPH, FAAD and Valerie D. Callender, MD, FAAD, the 2023 Summit further advanced the broader work of the SOCS Diversity in Dermatology Clinical Trials Task Force, which introduced the inaugural Meeting the Challenge Summit in 2022—a groundbreaking gathering that led to the development of the nation’s first Diversity in Clinical Trials Mentorship Program, presented in 2023 in collaboration with the National Medical Association. In addition, this SOCS Task Force is in the process of developing a comprehensive, evidence-based review of the use and misuse of the current scales used to measure skin tones.
The 2023 Meeting the Challenge Summit was made possible with thanks to the support of the following sponsors: Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc. and L’Oréal Research & Innovation (Champion Level); Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly, Inc., and Incyte Corporation (Ally Level), and AbbVie, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Google Health, and Sanofi-Regeneron (Partner Level). The 3rd SOCS Meeting the Challenge Summit will take place in 2025. Watch for details!
October 2023: My Best Winter Skin Campaign
On October 24, 2023, SOCS launched a new national health awareness day known as My Best Winter Skin Day, (MBWS), kicking off an annual seasonal campaign built around public education, volunteerism and giving.
While raising awareness about winter skin, funds raised through this public educational campaign go to the SOCS Foundation to help support innovative research and mentorship in skin of color dermatology. The world’s first MBWS Day rolled out with two successful community outreach events held in Chicago, IL and Washington, D.C., led by teams of SOCS members, dermatology residents and medical students from Northwestern University and Howard University respectively. Participating SOCS volunteers shared educational tips for managing winter skin that were developed by members of the SOCS Patient Education Committee, and distributed free moisturizers generously donated by MBWS campaign sponsors, La Roche-Posay and CeraVe. Campaign support was also provided by Restore Hair.
Since the inaugural MBWS Day events, a total of 36 SOCS members in 18 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. have volunteered to conduct additional outreach events in their communities and on local college campuses, resulting in the distribution of 5,000 educational tips and donated moisturizers to the public. Hundreds of medical school students, Resident and Fellow members have participated in this inaugural outreach to date. Plans are underway for an expanded MBWS campaign in 2024.
August 2023: Dermatology Foundation and SOCS Partner to Deliver Impactful Opportunity to Advance Health Equity in Dermatology
For the first time, the Dermatology Foundation (DF) and SOCS have partnered to deliver new DEI research support for 2024, with a one-million-dollar grant generously provided by Sanofi-Regeneron.
The Sanofi-Regeneron Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mid-Career Award was developed especially for the exceptional mid-career investigator with an established trajectory of excellence in basic, clinical or translational science and will expand the understanding of dermatological issues impacting underrepresented or underserved groups in medicine. This substantial award adds a critical piece to the pathways of investigators working to address healthcare disparities. Supported research projects are expected to yield novel results that will provide urgently needed preliminary data and will serve as a springboard for obtaining larger research grants.
Administered and promoted by the DF/SOCS Collaborative, this unique award leverages the DF’s experience and infrastructure in award development and management, along with the SOCS’s expertise in DEI and deep reach into the community of DEI investigators. Applications are closed for the 2024 Award cycle. Recipients will be announced in March 2024.
July 2023: The first-ever SOCS Scientific Session at the World Congress of Dermatology (WCD)
SOCS was pleased to present its first WCD Scientific Session at the 25th World Congress of Dermatology in Singapore. Organized by the International League of Dermatological Societies, of which SOCS is a proud member, the WCD is one of the largest dermatology meetings in the world.
Featuring expert presentations on inflammatory disorders, cultural beauty around the world, lichen planopilaris in South Africa, facial pigmentation and less-known facets of cutaneous tuberculosis, the SOCS Scientific Session was co-chaired by Drs. Victoria Barbosa and Ginette A. Okoye, under the leadership of SOCS President Dr. Andrew Alexis. This well-attended program was made possible by an educational grant from Pfizer.
June 2023: The SOCS Educational Video Series
In its continuing dedication to physician, patient and public education, SOCS released an innovative educational video series in June 2023, consisting of the “MelanatED” series of eight short-form videos and ten longer-form SOCS Identity videos.
Covering pertinent, high-interest topics ranging from cultural competency, inflammatory diseases, hair loss, and sunscreen in skin of color to patient safety, dermatologic differences in darker skin, the importance of early detection, how to find “Dr. Right” and much more, this enlightening collection addresses many issues of importance to patients of color and the physicians who care for them.
Drawn from the 6th Annual SOCS Media Day initiative, held in March 2023, these insightful videos feature nationally and globally recognized SOCS leaders, including: Drs. Susan C. Taylor, Andrew F. Alexis, Valerie M. Harvey, Candrice R. Heath, Janiene Luke, Corey L. Hartman, Shawn Kwatra, and Nkem Ugonabo.
This initiative was made possible thanks to the support of: Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc., Procter & Gamble, Senté, Bristol Myers Squibb, Arcutis Biotherapeutics and Dove.
The 7th Annual SOCS Media Day, “Changes, Challenges and Choices in Skin of Color: What SOCS Experts Say in an Era of Opportunity and Promise,” will lead to a new series of educational videos, featuring SOCS leaders who will share their insights on a range of timely and relevant topics of importance to patients of color. Watch for updates!
March 2023: The 19th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium
Held in March 2023, the 19th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium, “Where Science, Innovation and Inclusion Meet,” showcased the latest skin of color dermatology research and insights from emerging researchers and leading experts from around the US and the world.
A record 179 scientific abstracts were submitted, with 128 poster abstracts and five oral abstract presentations accepted for inclusion in the program. Experienced by an international audience of 511 attendees, the Symposium featured 16 invited speakers, including a keynote address, who shared their insights through presentations, moderated panels and oral abstracts, along with an expansive range of iPosters on display for viewing. This informative program was co-chaired by Victoria Barbosa, MD, MPH, MBA, FAAD and Ginette A. Okoye, MD, FAAD.
The 19th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium was supported by AbbVie, Arcutis, AVITA Medical, Beiersdorf, Bristol Myers Squibb, Dermavant Sciences, Eli Lilly, Evolus, Incyte, Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc., OrthoDermotologics, Sanofi-Regeneron, Sente, Strata Skin Sciences, UCB, and Unilever/Dove/Vaseline.
The 20th Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium, “Pathways to Equity: Advancing Advocacy, Research, and Clinical Excellence,” will take place on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the Marriott Marquis in San Diego. The upcoming Symposium is co-chaired by Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, FAAD and Chere Lucas Anthony, MD, FAAD.
2023 By the Numbers: SOCS Signature Programs and Activities
Membership is growing globally, with 505 new SOCS members added from 30 countries.
11 SOCS Observership Grants awarded, supported by EltaMD, L’Oréal and many SOCS members who have made voluntary contributions through the SOCS Foundation.
5 SOCS Research Grants awarded, supported by Bristol Myers Squibb, L’Oréal and Pfizer.
3 SOCS Career Development Grants awarded, supported by Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer.
2 SOCS Early Career Innovations Awards given, supported by SOCS member Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, FAAD.
8 Travel Grants to the SOCS Meeting the Challenge Summit awarded to Dermatology Residents, supported by Summit sponsorships.
128 SOCS Mentee applications for the SOCS Mentorship program received
48 SOCS Mentor-Mentee pairings in the SOCS Mentorship program were facilitated, thanks to individual donations made to the SOCS Foundation.
A total of 150 SOCS members and dermatology colleagues participated in SOCS Networking & Educational Symposia held in Chicago, Boston, New York, San Antonio, Philadelphia and San Francisco during 2023. These events were supported by Pfizer.
Wholehearted thanks to all who have contributed to the success and achievements of 2023. We are so excited about all that is planned for 2024 and look forward to your participation and engagement with SOCS in this 20th Anniversary year!
SOCS Mission: To promote awareness of and excellence within skin of color dermatology through research, education, mentorship and advocacy. We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the field of dermatology to advance patient care.
MENTORSHIP: We value mentorship as a leadership development tool to foster a diverse workforce at all levels, developing and empowering future leaders in the field.
The Mentorship Program is a comprehensive program that connects young physicians and medical students with an approved skin of color expert from SOCS. The Mentorship Program is now open to medical students. Residents can serve as both a mentor (to medical students) AND as a mentee (matched with a practicing dermatologist).
Open: Thursday, August 1, 2024 Close: Friday, November 1, by 12:00 PM CT
Membership
This program is reserved for Skin of Color Society members and pending members with a complete membership application. Apply for membership here. Non-members should submit a complete membership application by Thursday, October 31 to meet eligibility requirements.
Mentor-Mentee Pairing
Eligible applicants are paired with an approved mentor either by their preference or through allocation by the SOCS Mentorship Committee. Due to high demand for the program, not all mentee applications will be matched with a mentor. Group mentorship opportunities may become available during the program year for those who apply.
Mentor-Mentee Benefits
Build positive working relationships
Acquire and share new knowledge and skills in skin of color
Collaborate in research opportunities in skin of color
Enjoy networking opportunities with other skin of color experts
Share mentorship experience with the SOCS membership and dermatology community
Please review the eligibility criteria before submitting your applications.
Ready to take the next step? Here's how to get involved:
Ensure you're a member or in the process of becoming one of the Skin of Color Society (SOCS). You must have active membership or a pending application to be eligible.
Complete the Mentorship application form, including all necessary documents.
Who is eligible to be a Mentee?
Individuals who maintain active membership in SOCS with up-to-date dues payment.
AND
Are either medical students, dermatology residents, or fellows/young dermatologists who have completed their residency within the last three years.
Who is eligible to be a Mentor?
Individuals who maintain active membership in SOCS with up-to-date dues payment.
AND
Are either practicing dermatologists or dermatology residents.
Note: Residents have the opportunity to serve as both mentors (to medical students) and mentees (matched with practicing dermatologists).
The SOCS Observership Grant awards up to $2,000 USD grants to dermatology residents, medical students (2nd-4th year), and junior faculty to enable study with a SOCS mentor identified by the applicant. Grants are intended for travel, room and board as needed to establish and facilitate the mentoring relationship.
To empower young physicians and scientists to develop additional academic or research skills, thereby advancing their careers as future leaders in the field of dermatology specializing in skin of color.
Facilitate skill development and knowledge transfer between the mentor and mentee.
Provide a travel stipend to support a 1-4 week rotation.
Application Timeline
Open: Thursday, August 1, 2024 Close: Friday, November 1, by 12:00 PM CT
Membership
This program is reserved for Skin of Color Society members and pending members with a complete membership application. Apply for membership here. Non-members should submit a complete membership application by Thursday, October 31 to meet eligibility requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
Individuals who maintain active membership in SOCS with up-to-date dues payment. AND
Are either dermatology fellows, young dermatologists who have completed their residency within the last 4 years, or 2nd-4th year medical students.
Applicants must disclose if they are already participating in a paid research fellowship at a specified location. Failure to disclose may impact application acceptance.
Applicants must demonstrate that the rotation they are applying for is unique to their existing research year. These cases will be reviewed by the Mentorship Committee on an individual basis.
Applicants must identify their observership mentor and location in the application form.
Returning Applicants: Each student is eligible to receive one grant within a four-year period.
Application Requirements
Completed application form
Budget outlining travel, lodging, food, and other expenses to be incurred (up to a maximum of $2,000USD)
Statement of purpose and connection to SOC dermatology (up to 1 page)
Curriculum vitae
Two letters of recommendation
A letter from the proposed mentor to include a statement of willingness to provide the time necessary for this mentorship, any significant and pertinent details of the planned mentorship, and a specific mention of whether the time frame and budget are appropriate for the proposed mentorship. Mentor must be a member of SOCS.
A letter from the residency program director, department chair or a faculty member attesting to the applicant’s character and potential to benefit from the mentorship.
Disclosure if currently participating in a research year or fellowship at the specified observership location. Failure to disclose may impact application acceptance.
Accepted applications:
Confirmation, including rotation dates, from both the student and the mentor is required for the disbursement of funds. Failure to disclose may impact application acceptance.
Participation in the program involves:
Providing a 6-month update to the SOCS Mentorship Committee upon request regarding the status of the observership.
Completing a short survey after the observership.
Submitting a one-page summary of the experience written by the mentee, accompanied by a photograph of the mentee and mentor together.
Observership must be completed between March of the year the grant is received and February of the following year.
The Skin of Color Society, in conjunction with the NMA Dermatology Section, is proud to present the Diversity in Clinical Research (DiCR) Mentorship Program. This mentorship program is intended to:
Develop the skills of the dermatology investigators of tomorrow
Offer support to the underrepresented minority (URM) investigators
Propel the career development of mentee
Provide an experience that mirrors conducting industry-sponsored research
Acquire the knowledge needed to run a successful and high-quality research program
We believe a diverse research workforce is essential, as it builds trust for clinical research in underserved populations.
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SOCS/NEJM/VISUALDX Virtual Series
Join clinical experts, thought leaders, and advocates for a collaborative discussion on the issues of health disparities, structural racism, and medicine as we examine specific dermatologic diseases in a series of four free and open educational webinars.