Brittany Oliver, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist practicing in Kansas City, Missouri, with a special interest in pigmentary disorders and hair loss, and a member of the Skin of Color Society.

Brittany Oliver, MD, FAAD

Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color

Skin of Color Savvy: News Update—Addressing Disparities, Black History Month, & Mentorship Opportunities

Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color 

series, Brittany Oliver, MD, FAAD, speaks about the pivotal role of mentorship in dermatology and the initiatives led by the 

 to foster professional development. Oliver emphasizes the profound impact of mentorship on career trajectories, highlighting how meaningful mentor-mentee relationships extend beyond networking to shape clinical expertise, confidence, and leadership in the field.

She discusses SOCS’s commitment to mentorship as one of its core pillars, detailing key programs such as the 

, and the newly launched Diversity in Clinical Research Mentorship Program. These initiatives aim to support early-career dermatologists, underrepresented minority (URM) investigators, and students pursuing careers in dermatology.

In honor of Black History Month, Oliver reflects on the influential mentors who shaped her journey, including Adam Friedman, MD, and SOCS founder Susan Taylor, MD, whose dedication to mentorship and advocacy has left a lasting impact on the specialty. She also shares her perspective on the importance of increasing diversity in medicine, encouraging dermatologists to engage in outreach, advocacy, and structural changes to address healthcare disparities.

Finally, in recognition of American Heart Month, the discussion turns to the intersection of dermatology and cardiovascular disease, particularly within communities of color. Oliver underscores the need for systemic solutions, early pipeline programs, and physician-led advocacy to improve representation and access to care. She calls on her colleagues to take an active role in addressing disparities, emphasizing the power of physicians to effect meaningful change beyond the clinic.

To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit 

Videos

The February 18, 2025 SOCS News Update highlights SOCS mentorship opportunities as well as the importance of mentors and role models.

Brittany Oliver, MD, FAAD

Articles