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Rise Up Mentorship Program

The RISE UP Mentorship Program connects mentors and mentees to share professional knowledge, skills and experiences while building meaningful relationships within the dermatologic surgery community. 

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Mentorship can play an important role

in supporting professional growth, expanding opportunities and strengthening connections within dermatologic surgery. ASDS is committed to fostering an environment where members have access to meaningful mentorship, professional development and opportunities to engage and grow within the specialty.

Through mentorship, participants can expand their professional networks, gain exposure to new opportunities and strengthen their leadership and career development.

Mentors provide guidance, encouragement and practical insight based on their own professional experiences, helping mentees navigate career opportunities, establish professional connections and identify pathways for continued growth and involvement within the specialty.

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Read About the Inaugural Virtual Event (PDF) Questions? Contact ASDS.

Expectations

It is expected that mentees and mentors will:

  • Agree on the goals of the mentorship relationship, including the frequency of communication and complete a Mentoring Relationship Agreement.
  • View a one-hour webinar entitled, “Jumpstart Your Mentorship.”
  • Participate in the virtual introductory mentee and mentor meeting.
  • Attend the Rise Up Mentorship Reception at the ASDS Annual Meeting.

Participants will be recognized by the Society in Currents, on the website and during the Annual Membership Meeting at the Annual Meeting. The greatest value for your participation is the satisfaction you will feel by making a difference!

The ASDS RISE UP Mentorship Program

emphasizes inclusivity, opportunity and accessibility by providing meaningful mentorship and professional development to individuals from diverse backgrounds. The program connects mentees with experienced mentors who provide guidance, share professional knowledge and experiences, and help participants expand their professional networks and advance their careers within dermatology.

The program provides equal access to mentorship for eligible participants with the goal of fostering an inclusive and accessible environment within dermatology and ASDS.

2025–26 Cohort

Mentee Name Mentor Name
Micah Brown, MD Jeanine Downie, MD
Le Wen Chiu, MD Lily Park, DO
Ahuva Cices, MD Nicole Negbenebor, MD
Mohammad Fardos, DO Julia Kasprzak, MD
Gary Gibson, MD Nahid Vidal, MD
Christina Lopez, MD Shawna Flanagan, MD
Nathalia Simonetti, MD M. Laurin Council, MD
Teekz Yenpasook, DO Cheryl Burgess, MD

Mentee and Mentor Information

For more information on the program, please contact ASDS Senior Governance and Member Engagement Manager Tamika Walton at twalton@asds.net.

Mentee Information

The ASDS Rise Up Mentorship Program supports dermatologists from diverse backgrounds who have faced adversity, offering guidance and opportunities to expand their professional networks while fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.

Mentee Expectations

  • Share in 250–300 words how your experience with adversity has shaped your journey into the medical profession and your path within the specialty of dermatology.

​Should you meet the eligibility requirement, you are asked to:

  • Agree on the goals of the mentorship relationship, including the frequency of communication, and complete a Mentoring Relationship Agreement.
  • Participate in the virtual introductory mentee and mentor meeting.
  • Select a project you hope to complete with your mentor's support.
  • View a one-hour webinar entitled, “Jumpstart Your Mentorship.”
  • Connect with your mentor(s) at least once a month (encouraged).
    • Be open
    • Ask for help, support and guidance when needed
  • Attend the Leadership and Mentorship Reception during the 2026 ASDS Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA.  The date and time are to be determined.

For more information on the program, please contact ASDS Senior Governance and Member Engagement Manager Tamika Walton at twalton@asds.net.

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