What to Expect at the 2026 Top Blacks in Healthcare Thought Leadership Summit

The 2026 Top Blacks in Healthcare Thought Leadership Summit will bring together leading physicians, researchers, advocates, and industry leaders for a full day of focused conversations on the issues shaping Black health today and where we go next.

Held in Washington, D.C., this year’s summit is centered on the theme “Powering the Future of Our Health: Where Culture Meets Care,” with discussions designed to connect clinical innovation, patient experience, and real-world outcomes.

Where Culture Meets Care

This year’s theme, “Powering the Future of Our Health: Where Culture Meets Care,” sets the tone for a full day of meaningful conversations focused on access, innovation, and outcomes in Black communities. The 2026 Top Blacks in Healthcare Thought Leadership Summit brings together leading physicians, advocates, executives, and changemakers to explore the issues shaping healthcare today and the solutions driving it forward.

From cancer care and heart health to clinical trials, workforce development, and overlooked conditions that deserve greater attention, this year’s agenda reflects both the urgency of the moment and the opportunity ahead.

Rewriting the Narrative: Powering Equity in Cancer Care

Speakers: Rodney Gillespie (Novartis), Kerri Gober (American Cancer Society),

Moderator: Kristin Vaughan (BlackDoctor)

Despite advancements in treatment and detection, Black patients continue to face later diagnoses and higher mortality rates. The discussion centers on where gaps remain across early detection, access, and treatment, and where measurable progress is being made.

More Than A Smile: Powering Oral Health Equity

Speakers: Dr. Cheryl Baptiste-Hill (National Dental Association) and Dr. Andrea Jackson (Howard University College of Dentistry)
Moderator: Jade Curtis (BlackDoctor)

Oral health remains one of the most overlooked areas in healthcare, despite its direct connection to chronic disease and cardiovascular health. Limited access to dental care continues to impact outcomes across underserved communities.

From our partner

Do you still have gout symptoms even though you're taking medication? You’re not alone. The Kadence study is a clinical research study for adults with uncontrolled gout. Learn More

Heart Work: Addressing the Silent Crisis in Our Community

Speakers: Dr. Keith Ferdinand (Tulane University School of Medicine), Dr. Tony Lozama (Novartis/Association of Black Cardiologists), and Dr. Jayne Morgan (Hello Heart)
Moderator: Misty Casseus

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death in Black communities, with gaps in screening, diagnosis, and early intervention continuing to drive preventable outcomes.

From Mistrust to Movement: Reimagining Clinical Trials in Our Community

Speakers: LaToya Bolds-Johnson, Dr. Regina Hampton, Dr. Clayton Yates, and Osa Eisele (Amgen) Moderator: Ricki Fairley (TOUCH: The Black Breast Cancer Alliance),

As new treatments continue to emerge, participation gaps persist. Efforts to improve access, rebuild trust, and increase engagement remain critical to ensuring equitable advancement in care.

Fireside Chat: Sickle Cell and the Future of Care

A focused discussion on sickle cell highlights continued progress, ongoing challenges, and the role of advocacy in improving care and outcomes for a condition that disproportionately impacts Black communities.

Breaking the Silence: Powering Awareness and Care for HS

Speakers: Jeremy Hinkston, Charity Williams (UCB)

Moderator: Dr. Adam Friedman, George Washington University

A focused discussion to bring attention to hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). The condition remains widely misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed, with delayed diagnosis and stigma continuing to impact patients, particularly Black women.

From our partner

People 16+ years old struggling with lupus: Find out if the PHOENYCS FLY Study may be for you. Study-related care provided at no cost.

Next Up: Powering the Future of Our Health Workforce

Speakers: Dr. Antonio Bush (AAMC), Dr. Janet Franklin (Amgen), Peyton Turner (Emory Healthcare), and representatives from the Social Mission Alliance

Moderator: Dr. Robert Rock,

This focused discussion centers on the future of the healthcare workforce. Strengthening the pipeline, expanding mentorship, and building a more representative workforce remain essential to addressing long-term health inequities.

More Than Conversations, A Shift in Direction

Throughout the day, physicians, patient advocates, and industry leaders will come together to address pressing healthcare challenges while advancing solutions already in motion.

The summit will also include the presentation of the Rising Star Award, recognizing an emerging leader shaping the future of healthcare. Because when culture meets care, progress becomes real.

The Top Blacks in Healthcare Thought Leadership Summit will be livestreamed on BlackDoctor’s LinkedIn, Facebook, and Wistia platforms. To watch live or register, click here.