In recognition of his significant contributions to the field of dermatology, William D. James, MD, has been selected to receive the Academy’s Master Dermatologist award. Dr. James currently serves as Paul R. Gross professor of dermatology, and Education Director of the department of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
Dr. James is recognized for excellence in patient care and his career-spanning academic and leadership contributions to the specialty. In addition to his past service as president of the AAD, Dr. James has delivered more than 300 invited lectures, published more than 265 articles and 35 book chapters, and has written or edited 24 books, including the 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th editions of the standard textbook Andrews’ Disease of the Skin. Whereas this book is studied by nearly all learners entering dermatology across the globe, and he has co-authored this work since 1990, his influence on the care of patients and careers of a generation of dermatologists is evident. He is the founding editor of the internet-based eMedicine Textbook of Dermatology, and currently serves as editor in chief of Medscape Dermatology Reference.
For 35 years, the Master Dermatologist award, given to one deserving member yearly, has recognized Academy members who have made significant contributions to the specialty of dermatology throughout the span of their careers, in addition to leadership and/or education programs of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Dr. James is also honored as the first recipient of the William D. James, MD, Mentor of the Year Award, which was established in recognition of Dr. James for his career-spanning dedication to mentoring of students, residents, and junior faculty. Dr James has directed residency programs in dermatology at Walter Reed, while serving as Chief of the Service, and at the University of Pennsylvania for the past 32 years. Over 160 trainees are now teaching and caring for patients in Universities and practices nationally and internationally. In addition, Dr James mentors early career academicians across the country as part of a the AAD’s Leadership Program. He has received teaching and mentoring awards from many organizations previously.