UDC alum Taylor-Ann Robinson was recently named an American Psychiatric Association (APA) Future Leader in Psychiatry fellow. The program is designed to champion diversity, build an inclusive psychiatric workforce and prepare future leaders to enter the field of psychiatry successfully.

The program is designed to champion diversity, build an inclusive psychiatric workforce and prepare future leaders to enter the field of psychiatry successfully.

Students will be exposed to the field of psychiatry and receive mentorship from some of the world’s leading psychiatrists. They will receive learning and development opportunities, resources to help them navigate the med school preparation process and financial support for traveling to APA conferences.

Students are encouraged to apply, especially those shown by the National Science Foundation to be underrepresented in health science fields nationally, including African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans and Pacific Islanders.

“UDC prepared me for my current endeavors because it exposed me to professionals who lead by example, share opportunities and challenge students for their best interests. I would not be where I am today without the support of Dr. Afiya Fredericks, Dr. Vixamar-Owens and the UDC Psychology Department,” Robinson said.

Robinson began her post-baccalaureate pre-med program at American University in September.

She completed the BRISURE Neuroscience program at UCLA this past summer.

“BRISURE was a priceless experience where I was able to conduct research alongside some of the most dynamic leaders within the biomedical field, foster new technical and clinical skills, explore LA culture, further realize my passions and gain very supportive new mentors and colleagues,” Robinson said.

Robinson was honored with a presentation award in the Physiology and Pharmacology Division at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS) in November 2022 for her presentation “Identifying Key Components of Dysbiosis Research for Potential Neurologic & Psychiatric Disorders.” She also received $300 for her research presentation.

She graduated from UDC as a Psychology major in the spring of 2023.