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Gloria Richard-Davis (front right), M.D., MBA, stands with UAMS students and employees during Just Communities of Arkansas’ 59th annual Humanitarian Awards Celebration.
Image by R.A. Howard
Gloria Richard-Davis, M.D., MBA, Receives Award for Humanitarian Efforts
| Gloria Richard-Davis, M.D., MBA, professor of obstetrics and gynecology in the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine, recently received an award from Just Communities of Arkansas for her efforts to build inclusive and equitable communities.
Richard-Davis was one of three women honored during the social justice organization’s 59th annual Humanitarian Awards Celebration, held in December at The Venue at Westwind in North Little Rock. The awards recognize individuals who demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that all people are valued and have opportunities to succeed, according to the organization’s website.
Richard-Davis, who also serves as executive director of the UAMS Division for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, is known as an advocate for health equity and education. She has served as a mentor and adviser to medical students, residents and health professionals, including many who come from underrepresented populations.
With more than 30 years of experience in reproductive endocrinology and in general obstetrics and gynecology, Richard-Davis is an internationally recognized expert in women’s health issues. Much of her research has focused on medical conditions that disproportionately affect women of color, an effort that has included global health outreach.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Richard-Davis co-chaired a health equity response team that examined the disease’s impact on vulnerable communities and made recommendations to foster equity in testing, treatment and vaccine distribution, according to Just Communities of Arkansas.
In accepting the award, Richard-Davis noted that all people have a responsibility to serve one another as humanitarians. She also applauded Just Communities of Arkansas for its commitment to creating an equitable and just society.
“I am so humbled to have been selected for the JCA Humanitarian of the Year award,” she said. “I am passionate about holistically and equitably caring for our communities, especially our vulnerable populations.”
The other award recipients were Rebecca Cowling, an influential figure whose efforts helped craft federal legislation on issues such as health care privacy (HIPAA) and fair housing, and Caroline Stevenson, an activist and founder of the anti-violence organization Pilgrimage for Peace. Hilary Trudell, the chief executive officer for Just Communities of Arkansas, said she commended the three honorees for their talent, grace, strength and kindness.
“Rebecca Cowling, Dr. Gloria Richard-Davis and Caroline Stevenson are incredible women who have worked in service to others and toward the greater good throughout their lives and careers,” she said. “Their accomplishments and selfless contributions to our community are an inspiration.”