Cockerell assumes AAD presidency; other board positions filled

Today, Clay J. Cockerell, M.D. a Dallas-based dermatologist and dermatopathologist, takes office as the president of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Dr. Cockerell was inducted at the conclusion of the 63rd Annual Meeting and will serve a one-year term.

"Patients deserve comprehensive care for their skin, hair and nail conditions, so it is important for all dermatologists to be diligent and persistent as we work toward preserving our rights to practice in the best interests of our patients," Dr. Cockerell says. "We should strive for greater public awareness of dermatology in order to continue to provide the best, safest and most cost-effective care for our patients."

Dr. Cockerell is a clinical professor of dermatology and pathology and director of dermatopathology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas. He received his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed his residency and fellowship at New York University Medical Center in New York City.

Dr. Cockerell previously served as secretary-treasurer and as a member of the board of directors of the AAD. He is also a past president of the Texas Dermatological Society and past presient of the Dallas Dermatological Society.

Stephen P. Stone assumes president-elect

Stephen P. Stone, M.D. takes office today as president-elect of the AAD. He will hold office for one year beginning in March 2006, and will also hold this position with the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

"As Academy president, I intend to address a number of issues including fair valuation of services, the ongoing malpractice crisis and efforts by other organizations to restrict office-based surgery," Dr. Stone says. "In addition, I look forward to maintaining the Academy's excellence as the premier educational source for dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons."

Bruce H. Thiers assumes vice presidency

Bruce H. Thiers takes office today as vice president of the AAD. He will serve a one-year term and will also hold the position with the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Dr. Thiers, a Charleston, S.C.-based dermatologist, is chairman, professor of dermatology and director of clinical operations in the department of dermatology at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He is also chief of the dermatology service at the Charleston Veterans Administration Medical Center.

William P. Coleman, III assumes vice president-elect

William P. Coleman, III, M.D., takes office today as vice president-elect of the AAD. He will be in office for one year, and his tenure as vice president will begin in March 2006. He will assume the same position for the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Dr. Coleman is a clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans. He also maintains a private practice in cosmetic dermatologic surgery in Metairie, La.