Association of Black Women Physicians Celebrates 45th Anniversary Gala
News related to:Association of Black Women Physicians · 2 min read
The Association of Black Women Physicians (ABWP) is set to celebrate its 45th anniversary with a gala event that will honor influential medical leaders and raise funds for scholarships, mentorship, and community health programs. The event, themed "Legends & Legacy," will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California.
ABWP, founded in 1982, has a long-standing commitment to advancing opportunities for Black women in medicine. The organization has awarded over $1 million in scholarships, helping aspiring Black women physicians overcome financial barriers to medical education.
The 2026 gala will recognize four distinguished medical professionals for their achievements. Jessie L. Sherrod, MD, MPH, the founding president of the ABWP, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Sherrod's leadership has helped establish a foundation for professional advancement and mentorship among Black women in medicine. The Honorable Mablean Ephriam will present the award.
The Humanitarian of the Year Award will be shared by Toluwalasé “Lasé” A. Ajayi, MD, FAAP, FAAHPM, chair of the American Medical Association Board of Trustees, and Brandi K. Freeman, MD, MS, FAAP, the 127th president of the National Medical Association. Both recipients have demonstrated a commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and improving outcomes for underserved communities.
Judith Joseph, MD, MBA, a 2026 TIME100 Creator, board-certified psychiatrist, researcher, and bestselling author, will receive the Special Visionary Award. Dr. Joseph's contributions to mental health education, research, and public awareness have made important conversations about emotional well-being accessible to broader audiences.
ABWP's mission extends beyond scholarships. Through its Sister-to-Sister mentorship program, the organization connects medical students, residents, and aspiring physicians with experienced professionals who provide practical guidance, encouragement, and career development support. Additionally, ABWP advances health equity through public education, community outreach, and advocacy, addressing health disparities that disproportionately affect underserved populations.
The gala will feature red-carpet arrivals beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by a reception from 6 to 7 p.m. Dinner and the awards program will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m., with black-tie or cocktail attire required. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and additional event information, visit ABWP's website.
The Association of Black Women Physicians is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving public health, addressing healthcare disparities, and advancing opportunities for Black women in medicine. Through scholarships, professional mentorship, community health education, and advocacy, ABWP develops future healthcare leaders and improves the health and well-being of the communities they serve.