Professor Dame Carol Black, DBE MD FRCP MACP FMedSci, a former student of the School, first read history at Bristol University followed by a diploma in medical social work. During this year she was President of the Bristol Students Union. She entered medical school as a mature student in Bristol qualifying in 1970.
She soon found that Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disorders were to become her enduring interest. Out of her clinical work sprang a research interest in Systemic Sclerosis, a disorder for which little could then be done. Her unit at the Royal Free Hospital became the major centre for clinical care and research in Europe and is internationally renowned. In 2002 Dame Carol was awarded the CBE for her work in this field and in 2005 she was awarded the DBE for her services to Medicine.
Dame Carol is the first National Director for Health and Work, is Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges and Chair of the Nuffield Trust. She is Chair of the UK Health Honours Committee, a member of the Council of the GMC and a member of the Board of the British Cardiovascular Society. Dame Carol is President of the Scleroderma Society UK and President of the Raynaud’s and Scleroderma Association UK.
The School was delighted to welcome Dame Carol to the School's 2007-2008 Prize Giving Ceremony in September 2008.
Her presentation is available to download.