Our Mission
Empowering Physicians, Advancing Health Equity
At the Sinkler Miller Medical Association, we are committed to improving healthcare for underserved communities in the Bay Area. Our work focuses on breaking systemic barriers, advocating for equitable healthcare, and building a strong network of physicians who lead, mentor, and serve.
What We Do
The future of health equity depends on the support and success of our physicians. We’re here to make that future possible.
Recruit & Retain Physicians
We work to attract and support doctors, ensuring that our communities receive compassionate care from physicians who understand their needs.
Mentorship & Scholarships
We invest in the next generation of doctors by providing financial aid, leadership training, and mentorship to medical students and aspiring physicians.
Advocacy & Education
We fight for policies that advance health equity and educate communities on the issues impacting their health.
Community & Professional Development
We create spaces where physicians can thrive—offering networking opportunities, continuing education, and career support.
Our Board
Our leadership is composed of dedicated physicians who are committed to advancing health equity, mentorship, and professional excellence.
Stacey Hunt, MD
President
Ardis Martin, MD
Vice President
Collin Smikle, MD
Treasurer
Dawud Lankford, MD
Secretary
Sherilynn Cooke, MD
Past President
Joy Foster, MD
Member-at-Large
Leon F. Richmond, MD
Member-at-Large
Derrick Taylor, MD
Member-at-Large
Cynthia Carbin, MD
Member-at-Large
Our History
A Legacy of Excellence
The Sinkler Miller Medical Association stands on the shoulders of giants—two pioneering physicians who saw the urgent need to uplift doctors from our community and create a more just healthcare system.
Their vision wasn’t just about medicine—it was about justice, opportunity, and ensuring that physicians had the resources to lead and serve all communities. Today, we honor their legacy by continuing to uplift, support, and empower our members and other physicians in the Bay Area and beyond.
Dr. William Sinkler
A groundbreaking surgeon and educator, Dr. Sinkler was the first Black Chief of Surgery and Medical Director of Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, a vital training ground for Black physicians when segregation barred them from other hospitals. He was one of the first Black Diplomates of the American Board of Surgery, and his impact stretched far beyond the U.S., training surgeons worldwide.
Dr. Rudolph Miller
A pioneer in urology, Dr. Miller was one of the first Black Diplomates of the American Board of Urology practicing in the Bay Area. He was not just a brilliant physician—he was an advocate, deeply involved in community affairs and committed to breaking barriers for all doctors.
Our Partners
We believe in the power of collaboration. By working alongside like-minded organizations that share our mission of advancing health equity, we expand our impact, strengthen healthcare systems, and drive meaningful change for our physicians and the communities we serve.
