Courage to Care: Black Leaders in Medicine and Beyond
The Courage to Care panel brings together distinguished Black leaders in health care and public policy who are driving change through innovation, advocacy and community-centered care. Panelists will discuss their experiences, challenges and successes, highlighting how courageous leadership advances equity and justice.
The Courage to Care conversation will also discuss and honor the resilience of the Altadena community, a historic Black neighborhood profoundly impacted by the Eaton Fire. This discussion will underscore the importance of collective action, compassionate leadership and the ongoing work needed to create lasting, meaningful change within our communities.
Panelists:
Arleen Brown, MD, PhD
Professor of Medicine, UCLA
Dr. Arleen Brown is Professor of Medicine in the Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research at UCLA. She serves as Co-Director of the UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) and Co-Leader the CTSI’s Community Engagement and Research Program. Dr. Brown’s research focuses on improving health outcomes, enhancing health care quality, and reducing disparities for adults with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke. She has been a Principal Investigator on studies to improve diabetes care for older adults and minority patients and research to understand clinical, socioeconomic, and health system influences on chronic disease management in under-resourced communities.
Brent Musson, DLP
Public Policy Specialist, Northeastern University
Dr. Brent Musson specializes in modern methods of construction as a driver for multifamily housing and economic growth. He holds certifications as a PMP® and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and is licensed as a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor. Building on degrees in real estate development, urban planning, and supply chain management, his doctoral research at Northeastern University examines barriers to modern methods of construction. Dr. Musson served as Councilman Musson from 2011-2017, has over 20 years of global consultancy experience and frequently shares his expertise as a professor, panelist and keynote speaker.
Adisa Cartwright, MSN, RNBC
Associate Dean, UCLA Health Medical Assistant Program
Adisa Cartwright is an accomplished health care professional with nearly three decades of experience. Throughout her career, Adisa has developed specialized expertise in mental health, oncology and public health nursing. She currently serves as the Associate Dean of UCLA Health’s Medical Assistant Program, where she combines her passion for education with her commitment to advancing the next generation of health care professionals. As a founding member of the Unity in Diversity Council at UCLA Health, Adisa has been an active participant in initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity, cultural competence and diversity within health care.
Moderator
Mikel Whittier, DBA, MHA, FACHE
Director, Health Equity and Inclusive Excellence
