This month on Danforth Dialogues, we are honored to welcome Dr. Regina Benjamin, the 18th United States Surgeon General who served during the Obama administration. A trailblazer in public health and health equity, Dr. Benjamin brings decades of experience and national leadership to the conversation.

A native of Alabama, Dr. Benjamin began her medical journey at Morehouse School of Medicine as a member of the second entering class when it was a two-year institution. She went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and later received an MBA from Tulane University. Dr. Benjamin opened a solo practice in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, which she later transformed into a nonprofit rural health clinic that has earned national acclaim for its service to underserved communities.

Dr. Benjamin’s contributions to the field extend far beyond her clinical work. She has served on the boards of Morehouse School of Medicine, Florida A&M University, and Tulane University. In 1995, she made history as the first African American woman and the youngest person elected to the American Medical Association’s board of trustees. Her many honors include a MacArthur Genius Fellowship, a papal medal from Pope Benedict XVI, and recognition as one of Reader’s Digest’s 100 most trusted people in America. We are especially proud to have Dr. Benjamin as our 2025 commencement speaker.

Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Dr. Regina Benjamin as she reflects on her remarkable journey, groundbreaking achievements, and enduring connection to Morehouse School of Medicine.

Resources Related To This Episode

• Visit https://www.msm.edu/

Credits

• Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com

• Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Danforth Dialogues, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice sits down with the acclaimed actor and keynote speaker, Courtney B. Vance. Known for his Tony, Emmy, and NAACP Image Awards, Vance shares deeply personal stories and profound insights from his journey in life and career.

Vance reflects on growing up in 1960s Detroit, where he witnessed both the vibrancy of his community and the challenges of systemic change. His journey led him to Harvard, Yale, Broadway and beyond. Through it all, he credits his parents’ influence and his determination to make the most of every opportunity.

In this episode, you’ll hear Mr. Vance open up about navigating personal tragedy, including the loss of his father and godson to suicide, and the transformative power of therapy and faith. He discusses his path to acting, the importance of curiosity and persistence, and the encounters that shaped his career. Vance’s message to young people is clear: embrace the unknown, work hard, and remain open to the opportunities that God presents.

Join us for this inspiring episode as Courtney B. Vance shares his life lessons and a message of hope and perseverance for future leaders.

Resources Related To This Episode

• Visit https://www.msm.edu/

• Learn more and buy The Invisible Ache at https://theinvisibleache.com/

Credits

• Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com

• Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for a special episode of Danforth Dialogues as we reflect on an extraordinary year of transformative leadership under the visionary guidance of Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice. Hosted by Dr. Creshema Murray, Vice President and Chief of Staff at Morehouse School of Medicine, this 2024 Year in Review takes listeners on a journey through some of the most powerful conversations from Season Two.

This episode highlights critical lessons in equity, representation, collaboration, and leadership from remarkable guests such as Carole B. Tomé, CEO of UPS; Xavier Becerra, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services; Joy Ann Reid, political analyst and host of The ReidOut; and many more. From fostering diversity in corporate boardrooms to addressing social determinants of health and meeting communities where they are, these conversations offer profound insights that will inspire leaders in every field. Tune in for a reflective journey that celebrates progress, challenges us to do more, and sets the stage for the future of leadership.

Resources Related To This Episode

• Morehouse School of Medicine: https://www.msm.edu

Credits

• Produced by ChatWithLeadersMedia.com

• Theme Music Old Fire Music from Pond5.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.