We Are The Association of Black Women Physicians

The Association of Black Women Physicians is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established in 1982, committed to community health literacy and public health advocacy. We provide an ongoing forum to support the success of African-American women in medicine, science, and public health. Because Black women make up only 2.8% of the physician workforce, ABWP creates critical opportunities for social networking and mentorship for students and trainees to increase diversity in the medical profession, specifically by supporting the pipeline of future Black women physicians. Annually, ABWP distributes scholarships to deserving medical students.

Empowering the Next Generation Nationwide

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The Rebecca Lee Crumpler, M.D. Scholarship was created to honor the legacy of the first Black woman physician in the United States by investing in future medical leaders committed to compassion, excellence, advocacy, and equitable care.

We are thrilled to announce that the 2026 Rebecca Lee Crumpler, M.D. Scholarship is now open! In an exciting move to expand our impact, eligibility has been extended to include  female medical students across the United States. ABWP provides these scholarships based on a combination of financial need and academic merit. We are looking for dedicated candidates who embody our mission: an organized network of women physicians committed to improving public health and welfare through the advancement of community health and knowledge. If you are a female student in medical school, we invite you to apply for the Rebecca Lee Cumpler, M.D., Scholarship today!

Be Sure to Hit these Points in the Application

1. Make sure to update what you’ve done since first year.
2. What you expect to do with the money if awarded.
3. How your mission as a 1st , 2nd, 3rd, or 4th  year med student align  with the mission and vision of ABWP.

Eligibility & Application Requirements

To ensure a smooth process, please review the following requirements before beginning your application. Applicants must be in good academic standing at an accredited U.S. medical or osteopathic school.

A complete application package includes:

• Official academic transcripts.
• Financial aid award letter/verification.
• Medical school letter of good standing (from the Dean or Registrar).
• Three (3) letters of recommendation.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a short bio.
• High-quality professional photo (.jpeg preferred).
• Personal Statement.

Key Narrative Points

In your personal statement, we encourage you to highlight your growth (milestones since your first year), your impact (how these funds will further your education), and your alignment (how your mission fits the vision and community focus of ABWP).

Important Attendance Details

If selected, the recipient (or a designated representative) must be present to receive the award during our 45th Annual Charity & Scholarship Benefit Gala this October in Los Angeles.