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Our Members

The Power of Our People

BDN brings together a multigenerational, cross-disciplinary network of scholars, professionals,
and allies committed to advancing knowledge, mentoring others, and shaping the
future.Explore the communities that make us strong.

Undergraduate Scholars

Our undergraduate members are driven, curious, and ambitious. They join BDN to access mentorship, gain early exposure to research, and explore what’s possible beyond the classroom. We connect them with role models, publishing opportunities, and leadership development that accelerate their academic and professional journeys.

“BDN made me feel like I belonged in rooms I never thought I’d access.” — Maya Ramirez, Biology Major, Spelman College

Doctoral Students & Postdocs

BDN supports PhD and postdoctoral scholars through every stage of the academic journey — from dissertation defense to job market navigation. Members receive opportunities to publish, present, and build a research identity within a community of peer excellence.

“Through BDN, I found a mentor, published my first article, and spoke at a national conference — all in one year.” — Jamal Thomas, Doctoral Candidate, University of Michigan

Faculty & Researchers

Tenured and tenure-track faculty find in BDN a platform for thought leadership, national visibility, and cross-institutional collaboration. From journal contributions to speaker panels and mentorship of the next generation, our faculty members are at the heart of BDN’s scholarly engine.

“BDN gave me a platform to connect with next-gen researchers and shape policy conversations that matter.” — Dr. Asha Benton, Assistant Professor of Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill

Professionals & Alumni

Our professional members bring real-world expertise to the BDN network. Whether leading companies, nonprofits, or research organizations, they mentor rising scholars, open doors to opportunity, and help expand the impact of academic work beyond the university.

“I come back to BDN not just to give back — but to stay sharp, stay connected, and stay inspired.” — Gregory Hill, Policy Analyst & BDN Alum, Howard University

Global Members & Allies

BDN’s reach is international and inclusive. Our global members and allies come from every continent, institution, and field. Together, they contribute to a living legacy of intellectual exchange, cultural understanding, and scholar-led transformation that transcends borders.

“BDN bridges continents. I found collaborators in the U.S., Brazil, and South Africa because of this network.” — Dr. Tunde Afolayan, Global Health Advisor, Lagos | Harvard MPH

Where do you fit in the BDN movement?

Whether you're just getting started or helping others rise — BDN is your network.

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BDN Featured Voices

Let’s talk about your future

Through the intergenerational structure of mentorship and networking, we create a pipeline of excellence from professors to graduate students to college students. BDN leverages the personal interest and energy of members of exceptional scholars into a collaborative, functional community.

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THE BLACK DOCTORAL NETWORK, INCORPORATED 300 DELAWARE AVE. SUITE 210 WILMINGTON, DE 19801 830-BLK-PHDS. SAPIENTIS EST OFFICIUM: THE WISE PERSON HAS AN OBLIGATION.