Dr. Stacey Hunt didn’t just choose dermatology—she chose to make people feel beautiful inside and out.
As one of the few Black women dermatologists in Northern California’s Kaiser network, she’s long been a trailblazer. But her journey hasn’t come without challenges.
In this candid conversation, Dr. Hunt opens up about the realities of isolation in medicine, the resilience it takes to thrive, and the power of building community through organizations like Sinkler Miller.
Sinkler Miller Medical Association: How has being a part of Sinkler Miller impacted your journey as a Black physician?
Dr. Hunt: It gave my life purpose and meaning. Being the only Black physician at my site for most of my career, people were cordial, but I never felt genuinely included. Sinkler Miller became that space where I could have real conversations and be included, feeling seen and heard. It gave me support and community.
SMMA: What are some challenges you’ve faced as a Black physician?
Dr. Hunt: Isolation, gaslighting, and microaggressions—to name a few—and I wasn’t mentally prepared. These things tear at your soul. My faith, family, community, and a lot of soul-searching helped to sustain me and rise above it. I have been blessed to have an amazing village.
SMMA: What would you say to young Black medical students or residents?
Dr. Hunt: Unconscious bias and racism isn’t a maybe—it’s when. The question is how you respond and navigate, which is why Sinkler Miller exists—to prepare you for that moment. So, first, find your tribe. Then map out your own path and career. Don’t let others define it for you.
SMMA: What issues are you most passionate about today?
Dr. Hunt: Leadership training—too many underrepresented medical students and doctors don’t understand how to navigate the power structures in medicine. Second, creating a pathway program and access to a career in medicine. The Sinkler Miller Future Physician Academy was created to close that gap for students who can’t afford the necessary preparation to get into med school. Third, wellness. Helping people look and feel good not only in their skin, it’s about the whole person—physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
SMMA: What’s one thing you want readers to take away from your story?
Dr. Hunt: Determination and resilience since struggles often precede success. And that’s why building strong, supportive networks with an organization like Sinkler Miller is so important. We’re not just here to help physicians survive—we’re here to help them thrive.
Interested in joining a supportive community of Black physicians who understand your journey? Become a member of the Sinkler Miller Medical Association, and learn more about our mentorship programs, advocacy work, and career development resources.