#USA #Denver #Skin of Color Society #SoCs #Dr. Regina Benjamin

The Skin of Color Society's 22nd Annual Scientific Symposium

The Skin of Color Society (SOCS), recognized as the premier professional organization dedicated to advancing dermatology for skin of color, hosted its 22nd Annual Scientific Symposium on March 26, 2026, in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado. This highly anticipated event, themed "Championing Evidence-Based Dermatology and Collaboration," drew in nearly 500 attendees spanning 13 different countries, creating a rich tapestry of discussions and presentations centered on dermatological advancements.

Notable Presentations and Keynote Address

The symposium featured a diverse scientific program curated under the guidance of SOCS leaders, including Dr. Janiene Luke and Dr. Temitayo Ogunleye. One of the hallmarks of the event was the keynote session delivered by the esteemed Dr. Regina Benjamin, the 18th U.S. Surgeon General, who inspired the audience with her insights on making a significant impact in dermatology for skin of color.

Other highlights included:

• - Leadership During Turbulent Times by SOCS Founder, Dr. Susan C. Taylor.
• - Research on Tumor Microenvironment Signatures in CTCL by Dr. Courtney M. Johnson, the recipient of the 2021 Dermatology Research Award.
• - An oral presentation on Psychiatric Comorbidities in Alopecia presented by Nicole J. Baker, BS.
• - Innovations from Early Career Award finalists introducing novel approaches like Short Wave Infrared Imaging presented by Angela Anaeme, BS.

Engaging Workshops and Panels

Apart from the formal presentations, workshops such as the Holistic Patient Care Advocacy Panel were held to discuss crucial issues affecting dermatology practice, led by experienced dermatologists including Dr. Klint Peebles and moderated by Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd.

The symposium also provided a platform for scientific iPosters developed by budding researchers, showcasing the latest findings in dermatology that focus on improving care for individuals with skin of color.

Recognizing Future Leaders

An essential aspect of the symposium was the recognition of upcoming talents through various awards. The prestigious SOCS Career Development Award went to Dr. Leandra A. Barnes from Stanford for her investigative work on healthcare inequities in Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

Other awards presented included the 2026 Dermatology Research Award, which was claimed by Dr. William Lewis for developing an erythema imaging tool to assess inflammation in skin of color efficiently. Additionally, the inaugural Dermatologists of Tomorrow Scholarship (DOTS) was launched, aimed at providing support for medical students pursuing careers in dermatology.

Collaboration and Acknowledgments

The symposium couldn't have been possible without the generous support of sponsors like AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson, who played a notable role in ensuring the success of the event along with other supporting bodies such as Eli Lilly and Co.

Dr. Nada Elbuluk, recently stepping down as SOCS President, expressed her gratitude to everyone involved, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovative research in addressing the diverse dermatological needs of patients from different backgrounds.

As the day wrapped up, attendees left with renewed passion and commitment to advancing knowledge in skin of color dermatology, highlighting key takeaways and future directions for this growing field. With plans already underway for the next symposium on March 18, 2027, in San Francisco, the SOCS continues to lead the way in dermatology education and advocacy, paving the path for future advancements in patient care.

For more information about the Skin of Color Society and its initiatives, visit skinofcolorsociety.org.