Morehouse Alumnus Dr. Willie Underwood III Makes History as President-Elect of American Medical Association

Dr. Willie Underwood III, a distinguished urological surgeon and proud Morehouse College alumnus, is set to lead the American Medical Association (AMA) as its incoming president, marking a significant milestone in HBCU representation at the highest levels of American medicine.

Underwood was elected President-elect in June 2025 during the AMA annual meeting in Chicago, where his fellow medical professionals voted to entrust him with leading the nation's largest physician organization into its next era. His tenure officially begins in June 2026.

The accomplished surgeon brings over 25 years of medical experience to the role, including 15 years as a pioneering figure in robotic urologic surgery. His journey to this historic appointment began at Morehouse College, where he earned his bachelor's degree in biology from the prestigious all-men's HBCU.

Following his foundational education at Morehouse, Underwood continued his academic trajectory at SUNY Upstate Medical College, earning both his doctorate in medicine and a master's degree in cell biology and anatomy. He later obtained an additional master's in health management and policy from the University of Michigan School of Public Health.

A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership

Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Underwood has established himself as a leader in medical innovation and research. He co-founded KAPS Biotechnology LLC and holds patents for co-developing a biomarker for prostate cancer. His scholarly contributions include co-authoring over 120 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and published abstracts.

Underwood's commitment to the AMA runs deep. He previously served on its Board of Trustees beginning in 2019 and chaired the board in 2023.

• National Medical Association Commission to End Health Care Disparities
• American Urological Association Public Policy Council
• Board membership for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western and Northeastern New York

"It is an incredible honor to be chosen by my peers to represent physicians and the patients we serve at this critical moment for health care and medicine. The AMA is leading the way in fighting for a rational Medicare payment system, to rein in prior authorization, and reduce physician burnout."

Fighting Health Inequities

Central to Dr. Underwood's platform is addressing the staggering financial and human cost of health inequities in America. In a 2024 interview with the National Press, he emphasized the urgency of this issue, noting that health inequities cost the nation between $350 billion to $450 billion annually in direct healthcare costs and lost productivity.

Even more sobering is his projection that without intervention, these costs could reach $1 trillion by 2040. "We're done if that happens," Underwood warned. "So we need to figure out how we put things together that change that for the betterment of all of us."

As he prepares to assume leadership of the AMA, Dr. Underwood has committed to advocating for policies that ensure physicians can perform at their highest level while prioritizing quality treatment for all patients, regardless of their background. His work will focus on reforming Medicare payment systems, reducing prior authorization burdens, and combating physician burnout—all critical issues facing the medical profession today.

Dr. Underwood's ascension to AMA president exemplifies the enduring impact of HBCU education in developing leaders who shape national policy and improve outcomes for all Americans.

Originally reported by Black Enterprise.