Wilmington Honors Dr. Velma Scantlebury-White, the Nation’s First Black Female Transplant Surgeon, for a Trailblazing Career in Medicine

A Trailblazer in Medicine Celebrated During Women’s History Month

Wilmington is honoring Dr. Velma Scantlebury-White, the nation’s first Black female organ transplant surgeon, during Women’s History Month. The Wilmington City Council paid special tribute to her groundbreaking career and ongoing contributions to medicine.

Dr. Scantlebury-White made history in 1989 when she became the first Black woman to perform organ transplants. Since then, she has completed over 2,000 kidney and liver transplants. Her work has saved countless lives and inspired generations of women in medicine.

A Legacy of Excellence and Mentorship

Throughout her career, Dr. Scantlebury-White has earned numerous accolades. She received the Order of Barbados Gold Crown of Merit and the National Kidney Foundation’s Gift of Life award. She has also been featured on prestigious lists like “Best Doctors in America” and “Top Doctors in America.”

Beyond her surgical achievements, Dr. Scantlebury-White is a dedicated mentor and educator. She serves as an Adjunct Professor of Surgery at Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine. She also co-leads the Race and Health Equity Curriculum and consults for the Dialysis Patient Citizens Education Center.

Championing Health Equity in Wilmington

Dr. Scantlebury-White is the Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of the Delaware Health Equity Coalition. This organization works to provide healthcare to underserved communities in Wilmington. Over the past two years, the coalition has served more than 1,000 patients.

“Our goal is really to make an impact on the disparities in healthcare, especially within the 19801 and 19802 zip codes,” Dr. Scantlebury-White said. She emphasized the coalition’s commitment to compassionate, comprehensive care for Wilmington’s underserved residents.

Inspiring Future Generations

Council member Yolanda McCoy praised Dr. Scantlebury-White for her leadership and dedication. “Dr. Velma Scantlebury-White has upheld a commitment to professional excellence and mentorship throughout her career,” McCoy said.

This year’s Women’s History Month theme, “Moving Forward Together,” aligns with Dr. Scantlebury-White’s mission. Her work continues to educate, empower, and inspire future generations. She remains a beacon of hope and progress in the fight for equality and inclusion in healthcare.

Dr. Velma P. Scantlebury-White became the nation’s first Black female transplant surgeon after completing her fellowship at the @PittTweet. During her fellowship, Scantlebury focused on surgery & research related to multi-abdominal organ transplants & pediatric liver transplants. pic.twitter.com/rXjpP5bqrN

— Heinz History Center (@HistoryCenter) February 2, 2022