The Association of Clinical Research Professionals

Honoring Black History Month

Black History Month is a special time to recognize and honor the countless and invaluable contributions made by Black Americans—both as participants and leaders—in the clinical research profession.

We are grateful for all you do to promote excellence and quality in clinical research.

Enjoy reading the perspectives on the importance of Black History Month from various clinical research stakeholders below.

“The issue [DEI] is front and center and we are engaged. I want to highlight site personnel, who play a unique role in advancing diversity in clinical research. In my roles at large pharmaceutical companies, I know first-hand that sponsors cannot do this alone, and that we need site personnel as trusted partners and as the voice for patients in order for industry stakeholders to understand the realities on the ground.”

— Stacey Bledsoe, MSN, Head of Global Clinical Trial Diversity and Inclusion, Gilead Sciences

READ 2024 BLOG > Perseverance Leads to Progress

“This Black History Month, I’d like to honor those influential black leaders who laid the foundational work to allow me to be in the positions I hold today. And to make a promise to the next generation of inspirational black leaders that I will leave this industry in an even better place than I found it.”

— Ashley C. Moultrie, CCRP, Associate Director of Clinical Trial Diversity, Syneos Health; Chair, ACRP Diversity Advisory Council

“In the symphony of clinical research, diversity is the key to harmony. As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember that every voice and every perspective is a note in the song of progress. Embracing diversity in our workforce and fostering inclusive relationships paves the way for innovation and scientific advancements in drug development, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all.”

— R’Kes Starling, RPh, MBA, Chief Executive Officer/President, Reveles; ACRP Diversity Advisory Council Member

“The ACRP Diversity Advisory Council puts together programs and initiatives that support building diversity amongst participants in clinical trials and those who run them. This is a really big step in fighting the fight for health equity. This Black History Month, I encourage all of us to reflect on the work we do every day and the small things that collectively make a huge impact.”

– LaQuinta Jernigan, Chief Operating Officer, mdgroup; ACRP Diversity Advisory Council Member

“Black History Month allows me to reflect on our industry and see the growth over the 30+ years I’ve been part of it. It also allows me to participate and contribute to the development of initiatives that help in the efforts to understand more about health disparities in people of color and for career advancements.”

– Lutheria Hollis, CCRC, Senior Clinical Research Associate I, PPD Thermo Fisher; ACRP Diversity Advisory Council Member

“I am who I am today due to the unsung Black heroes who blazed trails and were dedicated to a cause greater than themselves. I thank them for paving the way for my success as a clinical researcher and the opportunities my grandchildren have due to their bravery in breaking down barriers.”

— Adrelia Allen, PharmD, PMP, Executive Director, Clinical Trial Patient Diversity, Global Clinical Trial Operations | Merck Research Laboratories; ACRP Diversity Advisory Council Member

Meet the ACRP Diversity Advisory Council Members

The Diversity Advisory Council (DAC) is a group of industry leaders who serve as a volunteer resource supporting ACRP’s efforts to increase diversity in the clinical research workforce.

DAC members recommend strategies to recruit and retain outstanding, high-quality clinical research professionals and students from historically underrepresented groups.

Learn More >

ACRP Guiding Principles for Inclusion, Equity, and Representation

Inclusion, equity, and representation are essential values to the success of ACRP. We are committed to serving equitably.

  • We welcome all and are committed to focusing on the diverse needs of the professional clinical research community.

  • We advocate for diverse representation in the clinical research workforce, understanding that diversity of clinical research professionals contributes to a more representative patient and participant clinical research population.

  • We develop education and training through the lens of inclusion, equity, and representation; we are committed to providing support for people to access training for entering the clinical research career and for advancing their career.

  • We demonstrate honesty, fairness, and the highest standards of ethical behavior as the foundations of all we do. We encourage open and active dialogue, contributions from diverse groups, and coordinated and collaborative efforts.

  • We applaud courage to imagine what can be possible and welcome opportunities to pioneer innovative and dynamic solutions.