February marks Black History Month, a time to celebrate the profound contributions of individuals who have shaped society. At the University of Louisville School of Medicine (ULSOM), we proudly recognize Dr. Jennifer Porter, an outstanding associate professor in the department of Pediatrics. Dr. Porter was recently honored with the Health Care Hero award from Louisville Business First for her outstanding dedication and impact on the community.  

Dr. Porter embodies the core values of the ULSOM through her passionate advocacy work and commitment to community engagement. She believes the best way to support the community is to show up and be willing to share knowledge, and that is exactly what she does. She has worked with community groups such as the West Louisville Math and Science Project and Adelante Hispanic Achievers group. Additionally, she mentors students through the National Medical Association Falls City Chapter (NMA), inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“It is important to engage with members of our community so that they can see health care as wholistic, not just a one-on-one relationship,” Dr. Porter explained. “Great health cannot be achieved without the effort of the whole community, and I am happy to be a connector between UofL and our neighbors.”

Drawing inspiration from Black history, Dr. Porter's career choices, scholarship and mentorship initiatives are deeply rooted in her heritage. Her research explores critical issues such as the impact of racism on neurocognitive development in Black children and disparities in asthma treatment among urban youth. Through her teachings on systemic racism in pediatric research, she advocates for measures to address these disparities and promote equity in healthcare for all.

“Being recognized as a Health Care Hero is an honor and shows me the surrounding community understands the importance of advocacy and what it does for us all,” remarked Dr. Porter. “I hope that in the future, some of the children involved in the community engagement work I participate in will become my colleagues.”

As Dr. Porter continues to champion health equity and support initiatives like the pre-medical magnet program at Central High School and ULSOM’s urban primary care track, ULSOM stands behind her efforts and values the work she is doing for the greater Louisville community. Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer Porter on her well-deserved Health Care Hero award. ULSOM is proud to celebrate her achievements and honor the lasting contributions of Black medical professionals who continue to shape and advance the field of medicine.