Degree(s): Zoology, Doctor of Medicine

Undergraduate Institution: Duke University

Graduate Institution: St. Louis University School of Medicine

Photo Credit: Duke Cancer Institute

Dr. Brenda Armstrong was the second Black woman in the United States to become a board-certified pediatric cardiologist. She also served as a professor of pediatrics (cardiology) and senior associate dean for student diversity, recruitment, and retention in the Duke University School of Medicine. Her efforts led to the increased recruitment, matriculation, and graduation of marginalized medical students. In 1969 as an undergraduate, Dr. Armstrong was one of approximately 50 Black Duke undergraduates who barricaded themselves in the Allen building to protest the institutional racism that was impacting the retention of Black undergraduates.

Fun Fact: Dr. Armstrong was also a dedicated youth track coach with the Durham Striders Track Club.