Lift Every Voice: Endocrine News Celebrates Black History Month

To commemorate Black History Month, Endocrine News reached out to several of the Endocrine Society’s Black members to get their insights into their career accomplishments, goals, and even their challenges as well as advice they have for any young Black endocrinologists just beginning their careers.

For nearly five decades, the month of February has been designated as Black History Month — an essential time to celebrate and reflect on the history, culture, and significant contributions of Blacks in the United States and abroad.

Black History Month originated from an idea of renowned historian Carter G. Woodson who announced in 1926 that the second week of February would be “Negro History Week,” as it coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The event was later expanded to a month-long observation in 1970 and recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976.

The month marks a specific time, for instance, to honor the groundbreaking advancements made by Black scientists, innovators, and intellectuals throughout history who have shaped our understanding of the world and improved countless lives. Physicians such as Charles R. Drew, MD, who developed ways to use and preserve blood plasma that became the model used for blood banks, and Patricia Bath, MD, an ophthalmologist who developed the laser technology used in treating cataracts. And most recently, scientists like Kizzmekia Corbett, PhD, a key researcher in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine in 2020.

To celebrate the momentous contributions of Blacks to the field of endocrinology, Endocrine News spoke with five Black members of the Endocrine Society who follow the footsteps of great physicians and scientists. We offer a glimpse of their proudest career moments, the challenges they’ve faced and conquered, as well how their own cultural backgrounds play a role in their research or patient care.

We spoke with Endocrine Society Past-President, E. Dale Abel, MD, William S. Adams Distinguished Professor of Medicine; chair and executive medical director, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine and UCLA Health, Los Angeles, Calif.; Dequina Nicholas, PhD, assistant professor, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at University of California Irvine; Antentor O. Hinton, Jr., PhD, assistant professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt School of Medicine; Estelle M. Everett, MD, MHS, assistant professor-in-residence, Medicine at the Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles; Barbara M. Onumah, MD, physician at The Diabetes & Endocrine Wellness Center in Upper Marlboro, MD; and Stanley Andrisse, PhD, MBA, assistant professor, Physiology and Biophysics at Howard University College of Medicine.

Endocrine News: What made you choose the field of endocrinology?

Nicholas: To be honest, I didn’t know that endocrinology was a field when I got started. I was looking for research opportunities in type 2 diabetes and in graduate school found a lab that studied immunology in the context of diabetes. I thought of myself as an immunologist until I realized in my second postdoc that no, I’m actually in the field of endocrinology, and am a scientist who approaches problems through the lens of an immunologist.

Hinton: Endocrinology has always seemed like a natural field of study for me, as my family has been deeply affected by various endocrine disorders and hormone-related diseases, leading to complications such as metabolic, cardiovascular, diabetic, and cancer-related issues. These challenges inspired me to pursue biomedical sciences, aiming to uncover solutions that could benefit individuals from all backgrounds. My undergraduate experiences further solidified my motivation to continue in this field. They led me to pursue a graduate degree at Baylor College of Medicine under the mentorship of Dr. Yong Xu, where I expanded my knowledge and skills in endocrinology. Following this, I had the privilege of conducting postdoctoral training with Dr. E. Dale Abel, focusing on metabolic disorders, and secondary training in electron microscopy techniques under the guidance of Drs. Abel and Jeffrey Salisbury.

“I was looking for research opportunities in type 2 diabetes and in graduate school found a lab that studied immunology in the context of diabetes. I thought of myself as an immunologist until I realized in my second postdoc that no, I’m actually in the field of endocrinology, and am a scientist who approaches problems through the lens of an immunologist.” – Dequina Nicholas, PhD, assistant professor, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California

These experiences have propelled my career in endocrinology, providing me with the tools and vision to explore innovative questions that are often overlooked. At Vanderbilt University, I have found an environment that supports my unique research approach and sustains my passion for addressing complex questions in this field. Currently, my lab utilizes aging as a model to investigate mitochondrial structure and function, particularly focusing on the frequency and roles of the eight morphological shapes of mitochondria across different tissues. This approach allows us to connect structural insights with functional outcomes, contributing to a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying endocrine and metabolic disorders.

Everett: I chose the field of endocrinology because I was very captivated by our intricate hormonal systems and how they influenced nearly every aspect of the body. My introduction to endocrinology, however, began long before I had medical knowledge — through my sister who has lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood. Witnessing her challenges firsthand gave me a unique, personal understanding of the daily struggles faced by individuals with diabetes. Her journey deeply inspired my clinical and research focus on improving care and outcomes for patients managing this complex condition.

Onumah: I chose endocrinology because after rotating through various internal medicine subspecialties during residency, endocrinology made the most sense for me and was the one specialty that I could see myself practicing. I liked internal medicine, but I wanted to be an “expert” and endocrinology afforded me the chance to be able to do just that. A very intellectually stimulating multi-system specialty, with a broad range of conditions that allows the chance to see a wide variety of patients. Additionally, due to the chronic nature of most endocrine conditions, it affords the opportunity to build long-term physician-patient relationships — a very gratifying aspect of practicing medicine for me.

Andrisse: Endocrinology fascinates me because it intertwines complex biological systems and holds immense potential to improve lives. My passion stemmed from seeing the disproportionate burden of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, in underserved communities and wanting to make a difference. This field allows me to merge science with advocacy for health equity.

As some of your readers may be familiar with, I am a formerly incarcerated person turned endocrine scientist. During the first two years of my incarceration, my dad’s health plummeted. He had a number of hospitalizations and surgeries. Piece by piece, they amputated his lower limbs up to his torso. He fell into a coma and ended up losing his battle with type 2 diabetes. This was emotionally devastating, but I used that devastation as inspiration. I read my first scientific article on diabetes while I was locked in a cage. Many of your readers are likely familiar with scientific articles and how every other word is something you’ve never heard of before. I didn’t have Google or WebMD or Chat GPT. It took me weeks to months to read through one article. But I plowed through dozens becoming a jailhouse expert on endocrinology. This enabled me to escape prison. Although my body was locked in a physical prison cell, my mind was freely roaming around the human cell. This helped me reshape the perspective of who I was. You can learn more about my journey in his book that was a #1 New Release in Educator Biographies, From Prison Cells to PhD: It is Never Too Late to Do Good.

EN: What has been one of your biggest notable successes that has defined your

professional role?

Abel: I have multiple professional roles including department chair of one of the largest departments of medicine in the country at UCLA and I run an active research program that studies molecular mechanisms for insulin resistance and the cardiovascular complications of obesity and diabetes. Prior to moving to LA, I directed the Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center (FOEDRC) at the University of Iowa. As such, there have been many achievements that I can mention that answers this question.

As an administrator, I am proud of the efforts made during my tenure at the University of Iowa to grow the collaborative diabetes research community from less than 10 investigators to more than 50. As department chair at UCLA, we have launched an ambitious strategic plan that will chart our future for the next decade to achieve our vision to: “Lead in Innovation, Transform Care and Advance Health for All.” Our plan that focuses first and foremost on our people and those of the great city of Los Angeles that we serve seeks to excel in research, education and clinical care and to be a force for good in our community, by ensuring equitable access to health care, particularly for marginalized members of our community.

The award of a Rhodes Scholarship to attend Oxford University in the mid-80’s opened my eyes to the challenge and beauty of biomedical research. The research contributions of our lab have led to many personal recognitions and awards that truly reflect the tremendous effort of many trainees and colleagues who have worked with me over many decades. These accolades include election to the National Academy of Medicine, election to the National Academy of Science and receipt of the Endocrine Society’s highest award, the Fred Conrad Koch Lifetime Achievement Award of the Endocrine Society. Finally, it was an honor to have served as president of the Endocrine Society.

Nicholas: My biggest success was being awarded the NIH New Innovator’s Award. For 10 years, I have mulled over a hypothesis and research direction that seemed far-fetched and that didn’t seem to gain any traction when I would share it. When I finally got my own lab, I had supportive mentors and colleagues who helped me develop the idea, and now my dream project is reality. I get to study how the immune system responds to lipids in type 2 diabetes.

“Surround yourself with an outstanding team. While you are strong on your own, you become even greater when you have a reliable and supportive team to collaborate with. Some challenges cannot be faced alone, and having the right people around you will make all the difference in your journey.” – Antentor O. Hinton, Jr., PhD, assistant professor, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee

Hinton: I wouldn’t say there’s just one success that defines my career — it’s been a series of milestones at different stages of my journey. As a graduate student, a major achievement was my first-author paper on hypertension and my co-authored Journal of Clinical Investigation publication on estrogen receptors in the amygdala. These studies laid a strong foundation for my work in neuroendocrinology and hypertension research.

During my postdoctoral training, my success came in the form of a series of co-senior and corresponding author papers on TEM (transmission electron microscopy) and fixation procedures. These discoveries not only advanced our understanding of these techniques but also helped position both my fields — endocrinology and mitochondrial research — on stronger methodological footing.

At the faculty level, I am most proud of obtaining a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative grant, which has allowed me to conduct cutting-edge 3D electron microscopy research on mitochondria’s eight unique structures. These structures are crucial for understanding mitochondrial function, and the findings have been fascinating. We’ve already published some of this work in Aging Cell, and I’m proud to have several other manuscripts currently in revision. This research has been a significant step forward in mitochondrial biology, and I look forward to sharing these discoveries with the broader endocrinology community.

Each of these accomplishments reflects my dedication to advancing both research and methodology in my fields, and they continue to shape my professional role and aspirations.

Everett: One of my most notable successes has been leading research to address disparities in diabetes technology access for underserved populations. This work is deeply personal to me and has shaped my career as a health services researcher. Through my studies, I’ve been able to highlight significant gaps and drivers in disparities in the utilization of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) among racial-ethnic minorities and low-income groups. Receiving the Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Award to develop a CGM-based intervention aimed at addressing type 1 diabetes disparities has been a pivotal milestone in my journey. I am hopeful that my ongoing and future work will address these inequities and improve outcomes for patients who are most vulnerable to poor diabetes outcomes.

Onumah: Along the way in my professional journey, I have had both small and big successes all preparing me for the next stage of my professional life. My professional path has taken me down many different roads including being faculty at an academic institution where I had the chance to interact with and teach students, residents, and fellows on a regular basis. I have also been the medical director for diabetes and endocrinology at a regional medical center where I learned a lot about the business aspect of practicing medicine. One of the things that I am proud and grateful to have been able to accomplish is the establishment and running of a private ambulatory diabetes and endocrine practice in a community with a large portion of patients who look like me and thus creating access to excellent care.

Andrisse: One of my most notable successes is founding From Prison Cells to PhD (www.fromprisoncellstophd.org), a nonprofit that empowers justice-impacted individuals to achieve their academic and professional goals. It represents a fusion of my professional expertise in endocrinology and my personal mission to address systemic inequities.

Another one of my most notable successes that has significantly defined my professional role was receiving the news of my NIH R01 grant approval. It was a moment that beautifully blended my personal and professional life. I was in my office at Howard University, holding my six-month-old son, when the email notification popped up on my screen. The weight of the journey — the late nights, the rejections, the perseverance — culminated in that single moment. As I held my son, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment, knowing that this grant would not only advance my research in endocrinology but also symbolize the possibilities for those who face systemic barriers. It was a reminder that success is a blend of passion, persistence, and purpose, and sharing it with my son made it even more special.

EN: Can you describe a pivotal moment in your scientific career where you overcame a major obstacle?

Abel: Over a career as long as mine, there have been many moments of challenge. As an endocrinology fellow at Harvard, my project was to generate and study animals with defective glucose transport in adipose tissue. All the tools and reagents had to be generated literally from scratch, as these were relatively early days of genetic engineering in mice. There were many times when it seemed that aspects of the project would not work. The ultimate success of this project largely shaped much of my subsequent career in research. Other pivotal moments include the recruitment of post-doctoral fellows to my laboratory whose background opened new areas of investigation such as mitochondrial biology.

Nicholas: My goal was always to have my own lab, so when I applied for faculty positions in 2018 and didn’t even receive one invitation to interview, I was crushed. That application cycle left me with a nagging feeling that I wasn’t wanted in science because every place I applied to had no minority scientists. I didn’t overcome that feeling until I joined the Future Leaders Advancing Research in Endocrinology (FLARE) program through the Endocrine Society. Multiple faculty instilled in me the confidence that not only did I belong, but that many departments would want me, and that I would find a place that would support my scientific and DEI goals. The Department of Molecular Biology Biochemistry at the University of California Irvine in the Dunlop School of Biological Sciences is that place.

Hinton: A pivotal moment in my scientific career occurred when I transitioned from being a postdoc to becoming a faculty member. Coming out of an excellent postdoctoral training experience, I thought I was fully prepared for the challenges ahead. However, I quickly realized that each university operates within its own unique system, with distinct cultures, expectations, and standards. Vanderbilt University, in particular, pushed me to elevate my creativity as a scientist and to constantly strive for more, even when I felt I had already done well.

“Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and pursue opportunities that align with your passions. Endocrinology is a dynamic and rewarding field that offers endless opportunities to make a difference in patients’ lives. Stay resilient, stay curious, and remember that the sky is the limit.” – Estelle M. Everett, MD, MHS, assistant professor-in-residence, Medicine, Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California

One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the importance of adapting and growing as a leader. With the guidance of career coaching, I’ve relearned how to navigate complex scenarios, foster collegial relationships, and refine my leadership style. A key challenge for me has been learning to say “no” — an essential skill when you’re a visible figure in science. While visibility is often a privilege, it can bring an overwhelming influx of opportunities, and discerning when to take a step back is crucial.

My mentoring committee has been instrumental in shaping my growth during these challenges. I owe a deep debt of gratitude to the late Dave Wasserman, who profoundly influenced my thinking, and Dr. Roger Colbran, whose guidance has been transformative for me. Their mentorship has pushed me to improve my science, encouraging me to focus not only on generating publications but on achieving a deeper understanding of mechanisms.

I’m grateful for the inspiration and support from colleagues across Vanderbilt, particularly in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics. I would especially like to acknowledge Matt Tyska and Vivian Gama, who have helped me reevaluate how I mentor, manage my lab, and approach my research. While I have come a long way, I know there is still much to learn as I continue to grow as a scientist and leader.

Everett: A pivotal moment in my career was deciding between a career path focused solely on clinical care or one centered on research. While I have always loved patient care, I realized that research offered a unique opportunity to address systemic issues and make a broader impact on the lives of patients with diabetes. The disparities that I have observed in clinical practice have inspired me to focus on understanding and solving these challenges at a population level. Committing to a research-oriented career has been challenging but extremely rewarding, as it has enabled me to contribute to tangible change in healthcare delivery while staying connected to the real-world needs of patients through my clinical work.

Onumah: In 2014, while I was getting ready to transition to a new job, my mother — who has been one of my biggest cheerleaders throughout my scientific career — suffered a major illness that she never fully recovered from. This significantly affected the dynamics of our entire family. Balancing professional work, married life, and managing two young children while helping with taking care of my mom was very daunting. By God’s grace and with the help of my family and friends I was able to manage this difficult challenge. Thankfully, my mom is still with us and this past December we got to celebrate her 80^th birthday.

Andrisse: During my postdoctoral studies at Johns Hopkins Medicine, I faced skepticism from peers and mentors because of my unconventional path as a formerly incarcerated person. The pivotal moment came when I used that skepticism to fuel my determination, culminating in publishing groundbreaking research on glucose metabolism and insulin signaling, which opened doors to meaningful collaborations and mentorship roles.

EN: Do you incorporate your cultural background into your research approach?

Abel: I do. My grandparents were subsistence farmers in Jamaica, my parents were elementary teachers. I was born in and came of age in post-colonial Jamaica, with a deep consciousness of the humble roots of my family. This experience taught me to treat everyone with dignity and respect regardless of background. Besides the encouragement of my parents to leverage education as a tool for advancement, there was little in my background that would have predicted where I am today. As such, I believe that everyone that I mentor deserves a chance to benefit from the opportunities that I can now provide them, with the goal of seeing them thrive and advance in their own professional journey. Therefore, my research group has always hosted individuals from all backgrounds and from all over the world, in an environment that respects each other’s differences, while promoting an environment of collaboration and generosity.

Nicholas: Yes. I am aware of the health disparities in type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome and even though I am a basic scientist and not a population scientist, I take any opportunity I get to collaborate and contribute understanding to how molecular pathways may contribute to health disparities. This approach often reveals disease-specific pathways that we model and test in the lab. This is only possible because I am mindful of diversity in the cohorts we analyze.

Hinton: As we refine our approach, it’s clear that initiatives focused on professional development for all — regardless of background — can have a profound and lasting impact. Leadership, mentoring, and career coaching are not only tools for individual success but also essential for creating thriving communities of practice where everyone feels empowered to excel.

“I wanted to be an ‘expert’ and endocrinology afforded me the chance to be able to do just that because it’s a very intellectually stimulating multi-system specialty, with a broad range of conditions that allows the chance to see a wide variety of patients. Additionally, due to the chronic nature of most endocrine conditions, it affords the opportunity to build long-term physician-patient relationships — a very gratifying aspect of practicing medicine for me.” –Barbara M. Onumah, MD, physician, The Diabetes & Endocrine Wellness Center, Upper Marlboro, Maryland

By prioritizing these efforts, we foster environments where individuals can feel safe, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. These initiatives strengthen the entire community, driving progress and innovation while ensuring that everyone has a place in shaping the future. Thus, I implement not just my own cultural background, but the background of everyone in their laboratory to have a collaborative and supportive environment for all.

Everett: Absolutely. As a Black woman and the daughter of Haitian immigrants, my cultural background informs my approach to both research and patient care. I understand firsthand the impact of systemic inequities and the importance of culturally sensitive care. This perspective drives me to design research studies that address the unique needs of marginalized populations and incorporate patient-centered approaches. For example, my research often focuses on understanding barriers to diabetes technology access in communities of color and developing interventions that are culturally relevant and practical. By integrating my lived experiences and cultural awareness, I strive to create solutions that resonate with the populations most affected by health disparities.

Onumah: Yes, I do incorporate my cultural background into my daily practice, but I am also intentional about acknowledging and being respectful of other cultures. I believe this is well appreciated and valued by patients.

Andrisse: Absolutely. My lived experiences and cultural background inform my approach to research and mentorship. I strive to address health disparities in underserved populations and advocate for greater inclusion of justice-impacted individuals in STEM fields, recognizing the intersectionality of systemic barriers.

EN: Both the academic and corporate worlds have seen many recent attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. What are your thoughts on the importance of increasing diversity within the scientific community?

Abel: I believe in the importance of recognizing and acknowledging that for many reasons, there are members of our community who have had fewer opportunities for professional advancement than others. I believe that policies that recognize these barriers and work to address them, will enable all individuals to achieve their fullest potential. It is a reality that many who face structural barriers to advancement are those from historically disadvantaged communities. I am convinced that having a workforce generally, and a science community, in particular that is diverse, will enrich our discourse and drive greater creativity. Problems are best solved when multiple perspectives come to the table.

Nicholas: I think it’s more important now than ever. My goal is to get creative in how we support the development of a diverse and equitable workforce through approaches that don’t trigger the falsely perceived unfairness of supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Building programs that focus on first generation college students, transfer students, and socioeconomically disadvantaged are ways to still capture students who wouldn’t otherwise have support or opportunity. The mission doesn’t change, just the logistics. It’s why I founded 1stGenInSTEM, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering first-generation students to success in STEM fields.

Hinton: The conversation around DEI has evolved, and it’s important to focus on strategies that benefit everyone by prioritizing career development, mentoring, leadership training, and career coaching. Career development programs ensure that individuals have the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to navigate their professional journeys with confidence. Leadership training equips people to take on key roles in their organizations, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Career coaching provides tailored support to help individuals achieve their goals, overcome challenges, and unlock their potential. Mentorship programs are especially powerful, as they not only guide individuals in their growth but also foster meaningful, long-term connections that benefit both mentors and mentees. These programs create a ripple effect, spreading knowledge, expertise, and encouragement throughout the professional community.

I believe in the importance of recognizing and acknowledging that for many reasons, there are members of our community who have had fewer opportunities for professional advancement than others. I believe that policies that recognize these barriers and work to address them, will enable all individuals to achieve their fullest potential. – Endocrine Society Past-President, E. Dale Abel, MD, William S. Adams Distinguished Professor of Medicine; chair and executive medical director, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine and UCLA Health, Los Angeles, Calif

Everett: Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for advancing science and improving healthcare outcomes. A diverse scientific community brings a wider range of perspectives, which leads to more innovative solutions and equitable outcomes. It’s deeply concerning to see DEI initiatives under attack, as they play a critical role in addressing historical inequities and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. As a researcher and mentor, I am committed to advocating for DEI initiatives and ensuring that the next generation of scientists and physicians reflects the diversity of the populations we serve.

Onumah: Increasing diversity in the scientific community is necessary for a bigger overall impact and it also levels the playing field to ensure that the benefits of a scientific development are not skewed towards only one or just a few groups.

Andrisse: Diversity is not just a moral imperative but a driver of scientific innovation. A diverse scientific community ensures broader perspectives, fosters creativity, and addresses the unique health challenges of all populations. Despite recent setbacks, we must remain resolute in advancing DEI efforts to create a more equitable and impactful scientific ecosystem.

EN: How has the Endocrine Society played a role in your professional growth?

Abel: The Endocrine Society has a distinguished history of embracing early-stage endocrinologists and providing them opportunities to serve the Society. This has been my experience. Very early in my career, I was invited to serve on a committee of the Endocrine Society, which provided the opportunity for mentorship from senior leaders, and the invaluable opportunity to develop friendships with colleagues with whom I have had the opportunity to collaborate. Each of these collaborations have shaped my professional journey. I am particularly proud of the work that we have accomplished in the FLARE program, in which we have contributed to career advancement and success of more than 200 fellows over the course of the program.

Nicholas: The Endocrine Society has made me feel accepted and that I belong in science. Through the FLARE program and seeing the commitment to supporting trainees of every recent

Endocrine Society President, I had found a professional home. The Society has become a platform for me to grow as a leader through service on committees, to share and receive feedback on my science, and for my now extensive professional network that supports me in navigating the politics of academia.

Hinton: The Endocrine Society, particularly the FLARE program, has been instrumental in shaping my professional growth. My recruitment to FLARE made me feel seen and valued, especially during the challenging transition from graduate school to a postdoctoral position. Without Dr. E. Dale Abel’s encouragement and support, I’m not sure how I would have navigated that pivotal stage of my career. The program didn’t just provide accolades and funding, it completely transformed the way I approach my environment, how I manage my work, and how I envision my future. I would strongly encourage others to embark on the FLARE journey because it is truly life changing. Beyond the workshops and mentoring you receive, the program emphasizes building meaningful, long-term relationships.

These relationships have become the foundation of a supportive network that continually pushes for excellence and fosters collaboration within the scientific community. The partnerships and collaborations that have emerged from these connections have been remarkable, and I’m genuinely grateful for how FLARE has shaped my career and my approach to mentorship and leadership.

Everett: The Endocrine Society has been instrumental in my professional development, offering invaluable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and mentorship. My participation in the FLARE program was particularly transformative, providing the support and infrastructure necessary for my success while establishing the Society as my academic home. The Society’s dedication to supporting early-career investigators has been especially impactful. I have greatly benefited from its programs, resources, and the mentorship of its many members, who have generously shared their expertise and guidance to help me grow both personally and professionally.

Onumah: The Endocrine Society has been my main scientific society since 2005. I have had the opportunity to participate in various committees. I have been able to network and develop amazing professional and personal relationships. The Endocrine Society has also been my number one resource for staying abreast of the constantly evolving scientific discoveries with many educational and learning options. I have served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Society since 2022 and it has been an honor serving in this capacity and representing my colleagues and members of the Society.

Andrisse: The Endocrine Society has been instrumental in my career, providing platforms for advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration. Programs like FLARE have connected me with a network of inspiring professionals and resources that have shaped both my scientific contributions and outreach efforts.

EN: What advice would you give to young Black medical students aspiring to pursue a career in endocrinology? 

Abel: To medical students of any background, and to those who are underrepresented in medicine, I encourage you to consider endocrinology, not only for the stimulating intellectual content our field, the generosity of your endocrine colleagues, but importantly the opportunity to develop a career that will advance the health of those in minority communities who are disproportionately impacted by endocrine disorders including type 2 diabetes.

Nicholas: Endocrinologists make great colleagues. Get involved with the Endocrine Society as soon as possible through their programs such as FLARE, ExCEL, REGMS, online modules, and Special Interests Groups. Besides all of the professional benefits, the best part of the Endocrine Society is supportive community, so take the initiative to join it.

Hinton: My first piece of advice is to press forward and never doubt your ability to succeed. Seek out mentors who look like you — they can offer invaluable perspectives and guidance — but also remain open to mentors from all backgrounds who are genuinely invested in your success.

Be patient, as becoming a scientist and physician requires time, dedication, and persistence. Avoid burning bridges, even when challenges arise. If you make mistakes, acknowledge them, apologize, and use the experience to learn and grow. It’s okay to evolve and improve with the help of others. I also encourage you to participate in translational or basic research. Engaging in research can deepen your understanding of endocrinology, contribute to the field, and open doors to impactful collaborations.

Finally, surround yourself with an outstanding team. While you are strong on your own, you become even greater when you have a reliable and supportive team to collaborate with. Some challenges cannot be faced alone, and having the right people around you will make all the difference in your journey.

Everett: My advice is to embrace your unique perspective as a strength and remain confident in your abilities. While imposter syndrome is real, know that you belong and have the skills to succeed. Seek out mentors who understand your journey and can provide guidance and support. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and pursue opportunities that align with your passions. Endocrinology is a dynamic and rewarding field that offers endless opportunities to make a difference in patients’ lives. Stay resilient, stay curious, and remember that the sky is the limit.

“Endocrinology fascinates me because it intertwines complex biological systems and holds immense potential to improve lives. My passion stemmed from seeing the disproportionate burden of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, in underserved communities and wanting to make a difference. This field allows me to merge science with advocacy for health equity.” –  Stanley Andrisse, PhD, MBA, assistant professor, Physiology and Biophysics, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, D.C.

Onumah: There are so many career paths from basic science to clinical scientist to clinical practitioner and lots in between. Join the Endocrine Society and get actively involved. Ask questions, find a mentor if you do not already have one, and be a mentor to someone else. This is an exciting time to be an endocrine scientist. If you are thinking about it, just do it.

Andrisse: Never let anyone define your limits or underestimate the value of your unique perspective. Seek out mentors, build a strong network, and remain focused on your passion for improving health outcomes. You belong in this field, and your journey can inspire others to follow.

Shaw is a freelance writer based in Carmel, Ind. She is regular contributor to Endocrine News and writes the monthly Laboratory Notes column.