Lloyd C. Elam, M.D.

Dr. Elam earned his B.S. in zoology in 1950, then served in the US Army for two years before obtaining his M.D. from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle in 1957, where he became the institution's first Black medical graduate. Following his medical education, he completed an internship at the University of Illinois and a psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago Medical Center in 1961.

Recruited to Meharry Medical College after his residency, Dr. Elam played a pivotal role in establishing the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He spearheaded the development of the inpatient psychiatry program in 1964 and launched the residency program in psychiatry in 1965.

Recognized for his leadership and management skills, Dr. Elam was appointed as the 6th President of Meharry Medical College at the age of 39, serving until 1981. His contributions were acknowledged with inductions into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and honorary degrees from prestigious institutions including Harvard University, St. Lawrence University, Roosevelt University, and Meharry Medical College. Additionally, he was a Life Member of the APA and a founding member of the Black Psychiatrists of America (BPA).