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Dr. Susan C. Taylor Takes the Helm at AAD

In an exciting development for the dermatology community, Dr. Susan C. Taylor, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia, has officially taken office as the President of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). This prestigious role, which she will hold for a year, marks a significant milestone not only for her personal career but also for the field of dermatology at large.

Dr. Taylor's new leadership comes at a crucial time as the AAD represents approximately 21,000 physicians dedicated to skin, hair, and nail health. As the sixth woman and the first African American to take on this position, Dr. Taylor's presidency is historic, reflecting a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the organization.

During her inaugural address, Dr. Taylor expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her by AAD members, vowing to advocate passionately for their needs and interests over the coming year. "I am honored to serve the AAD membership as their next president… I look forward to tackling head on some of the most important issues facing dermatology today," she stated.

Key Issues to Address

Dr. Taylor highlighted several pressing issues that will be the focus of her presidency. One of the primary concerns is enhancing access to dermatological care for patients. She noted the need for the Academy to make sure its resources are accessible to both members and the public, ensuring that everyone can receive the professional care they deserve.

Another priority includes the continued growth of advocacy efforts at federal, state, and grassroots levels, necessary for affecting change in dermatology’s standards and practices. Dr. Taylor spoke of her commitment to foster a supportive environment where members can thrive, which in turn will allow them to provide optimal care to their patients. This includes a focus on enhanced educational opportunities and practice management tools that are vital for physicians in the field.

Dr. Taylor's Background

With a wealth of experience and a strong educational background, Dr. Taylor is well-equipped to lead the AAD. She has previously served as Vice President of the AAD from 2020 to 2021 and holds the position of the Bernett Johnson Professor of Dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine.

Dr. Taylor's educational journey includes an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a medical degree from Harvard University. Her residency training in internal medicine was completed at Pennsylvania Hospital, and she specialized in dermatology at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

Her contributions to the AAD have been multifaceted; she has been a member of its Board of Directors and has actively participated in various committees and councils. Her efforts in the field of dermatology were recognized when she received the John Kenney Jr., MD Lifetime Achievement Award from the AAD in 2022.

Looking Forward

As Dr. Taylor embarks on this new chapter, the dermatology community is likely to benefit greatly from her visionary leadership. Her vision for the AAD aims not only at addressing immediate concerns like patient access and member support but also at shaping the future of dermatology through proactive engagement and advocacy.

The AAD, founded in 1938 and headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, stands as a powerful advocate for dermatology practice standards and patient care. With Dr. Taylor at the helm, the organization is poised for an impactful year, advancing the field and addressing the needs of its members.