Docs With Disabilities Initiative Named to Inaugural Forbes “Accessibility 100” List Honoring Global Leaders in Disability Inclusion

Chicago, IL — June 17, 2025 — The Docs With Disabilities Initiative (DWDI), a program of the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), is proud to announce its selection to the inaugural Forbes Accessibility 100—a global list honoring the 50 individuals and 50 organizations making the most significant impact on accessibility for people with disabilities.

Launched in 2025, the Forbes Accessibility 100 spotlights global changemakers advancing access in fields such as education, healthcare, AI, robotics, legal protections, and workplace inclusion. DWDI earned recognition for its transformative, multi-pronged approach to building disability-inclusive environments across health professions education.

Founded by Lisa M. Meeks, PhD, Clinical Professor of Medical Education at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, and co-led by Justin Bullock, MD, MPH, Clinician Researcher at the University of Washington, DWDI has evolved into a national leader in disability equity in medicine and the health sciences.

“Our work has always been about collective leadership and honoring lived

experience,” said Dr. Meeks. “To see our team’s efforts recognized on a global

stage is deeply meaningful—for DWDI, and for the broader disability community.”

Through strategic partnerships, policy engagement, mentorship, and storytelling, DWDI has launched a suite of groundbreaking initiatives:

• Access in Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy (AIM, AIN and AIP). National programs driving research, policy, and resource development to advance disability inclusion in health professions.

• DRP Academy: A first-of-its-kind training and mentorship program for Disability Resource Professionals in medical and nursing education.

• Women With Disabilities in Medicine (WWDIM): A national mentorship collective supporting connection, empowerment, and career advancement for women with disabilities in medicine.

• Docs With Disabilities Podcast: A widely acclaimed series sharing the voices and stories of disabled health professionals and scholars.

• DREAM Research & Resource Rounds: A national forum fostering community and scholarship around disability inclusion.

“This recognition from Forbes affirms the urgency and impact of our mission,” said

Dr. Bullock. “We dedicate this honor to every disabled learner and clinician whose

resilience continues to drive us forward.”

DWDI shares this achievement with its ever-growing community of students, clinicians, educators, researchers, and advocates—whose collective action is reshaping what’s possible in health professions education.

To explore the full Forbes Accessibility 100 list, visit Forbes.com.

Media ContactDocs With Disabilities Initiative📧 docswithdisabilitiesinitiative@gmail.com🌐 www.docswithdisabilities.org