The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) will honor child and adolescent psychiatrist Leonard Lawrence, M.D., Saturday, Oct. 28, at the academy’s 53rd Annual Meeting in San Diego. Dr. Lawrence, clinical professor at the Health Science Center and past winner of the Jeanne Spurlock Award for Diversity and Culture, will deliver the Jeanne Spurlock, M.D., Plenary Address, "The Impact and Role of Modeling and Mentoring," from 8 to 9:15 a.m.
Dr. Lawrence will speak about Dr. Spurlock's influence on his professional development and of the critical importance of mentors. Dr. Spurlock inspired Dr. Lawrence to become the first psychiatrist elected president of the National Medical Association (NMA), and her efforts to change health care policy spurred him to become an advocate on behalf of youth living with mental illnesses.
Dr. Lawrence also will speak about his 30-year quest to improve the Texas' juvenile justice system. In 1972, a lawsuit charged the state of Texas and the Texas Youth Council with "cruel and unusual punishment." This litigation, known as
Morales vs. Terman, achieved landmark status as the Texas juvenile justice system became focused on community, prevention and of the need for culturally competent services. The Texas juvenile correctional system has since become recognized as a model for other states. Dr. Lawrence will discuss his role as an African-American child and adolescent psychiatrist who testified against the state of Texas.
Dr. Lawrence is the former dean of students and professor of psychiatry, pediatrics and family practice at the Health Science Center.
