2026 marks 100 years since the very first Black History Week, and 50 years since the inaugural Black History Month — an annual celebration we now recognize as an essential event on both our calendars and within our culture.
Since our founding, Howard University has been a pillar of Black excellence, particularly in the field of medicine. Until the 1960s, Howard (along with Meharry Medical College) trained most of the country’s African American physicians. Many of the icons we know and respect today were once young Howard students who took their education and commitment to truth and service as a directive to go forth and heal the world. Black History Month is an opportune time to celebrate these influential figures in American medicine from the Mecca.
Below is a selection of stories from The Dig archive honoring trailblazers and advocates whose work shaped health care and inspired future generations. While not comprehensive, these profiles honor leaders whose legacies still inspire us today.
Roland B. Scott was a pioneering physician and researcher in sickle cell disease. A longtime Howard faculty member and founding director of the Center for Sickle Cell Disease, he helped secure federal support for research and care nationwide.
Howard University Salutes Black History Legend: Dr. Roland B. Scott, Pioneering Sickle Cell Researcher
Dr. Roland B. Scott pioneered sickle cell research, founded Howard’s Center for Sickle Cell Disease, and secured federal funding. His advocacy and scholarship transformed care and advanced health equity nationwide.
Patricia Bath was a pioneering ophthalmologist and inventor who transformed modern eye care. Through innovations in cataract surgery and community ophthalmology, she opened doors for generations of patients and physicians and expanded access for underserved communities.
Patricia Bath: Helping Others ‘See’ Disparities in Eye Care
In the decades following her graduation from the Howard University College of Medicine, Patricia Bath became the first Black woman doctor to receive a medical patent in the U.S. for her invention of laser cataract surgery.
Clive O. Callender is a living legend in medicine whose work in minority organ donation has saved lives. A surgeon, advocate, and distinguished Howard University professor, he has spent decades expanding access to transplantation in underserved communities.
Black History Month Living Legend: Dr. Clive O. Callender, Trailblazer in Minority Organ Donation
Howard University salutes living Black history legend: Renowned surgeon and medical professor Dr. Clive O. Callender
Jeanne Craig Sinkford was a pioneering leader in dentistry and dental education. She was the first woman dean of a U.S. dental school and advanced opportunities for women and minorities while strengthening oral health education nationwide.
Howard University Dentistry Trailblazer Dr. Jeanne Sinkford Receives American College of Dentists Highest Award
Howard University alumna Dr. Jeanne Sinkford became the first female dean of any U.S. dental school in 1975 with her appointment at the Howard University College of Dentistry.
LaSalle D. Leffall Jr. was a pioneering leader in American medicine. A distinguished Howard University alumnus and longtime chair of surgery, he broke barriers in national medical leadership and trained generations of physicians.
Passing of Dr. LaSalle D. Leffall Jr.
LaSalle D. Leffall Jr., pioneering surgeon and cancer leader, led Howard’s surgery department, mentored thousands, and advanced equity before his death in May 2019.
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