A Journey Rooted in Purpose
When Audrey C. Durrant entered medicine, she carried more than ambition—she carried a mission to transform care into a more inclusive and human-centered experience. As one of the first ten women of color in North America to achieve board certification in pediatric surgery, her story reflects resilience, innovation, and a determination to create spaces where others can thrive.
As she often reminds her peers: “We are stronger together.”
Foundation: Early Influences and the Making of a Surgeon
Dr. Durrant’s academic foundation began at McMaster University, where she earned an Honors Bachelor of Science in Biology and Pharmacology. She later completed her medical degree at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, followed by nearly a decade of rigorous surgical residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center.
Her fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University refined her surgical expertise, while a research fellowship at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children instilled a commitment to curiosity-driven innovation. These early experiences shaped not only her clinical abilities but also her conviction that medicine must extend beyond the operating room into advocacy and representation.
Ascent: Professional Milestones and Leadership
Over the past 15 years, Dr. Durrant has built a distinguished career as a double board-certified pediatric and general surgeon, maintaining a spotless malpractice record throughout her practice. Her professional path includes serving as a pediatric surgeon at Carle Health, Blank Children’s Hospital, North Central Baptist Hospital, and Harlem Hospital Center. She also served as Assistant Professor of Pediatric Surgery at the University of South Florida.
Her expertise extends into pediatric oncology, radiology, and complex surgical care. Yet, beyond her clinical skills, she has distinguished herself as a leader committed to cultural humility and equity in medicine. Reflecting on her own experiences, she emphasizes: “We often work twice as hard to achieve our goals, yet our missteps are judged as flaws rather than learning experiences.”
Her excellence has been recognized with honors such as Illinois Top Doctor 2024 and being named among the Top 25 Restorative People to Watch in 2025. These accolades underscore not only her clinical success but also her influence as a leader and advocate.
Impact: Amplifying Voices and Innovating for Equity
Dr. Durrant’s impact extends well beyond her surgical achievements. She is the founder of WhiteCoatGreenRoom, a platform and podcast that amplifies underrepresented voices in medicine. Designed as a safe and authentic space, the Green Room is, in her words, “where we can laugh, cry together, and most importantly, speak truth to power.”
Her vision also extends into health technology. She founded Inclusive Health Match, an AI-powered app that connects patients with culturally competent providers based on lived experiences and personal preferences. Currently in TestFlight and preparing for wider release, the platform exemplifies her commitment to equity-driven innovation in healthcare.
For Dr. Durrant, representation is not symbolic—it is transformational. As she powerfully notes: “Representation in medicine is not only about excellence in care—it’s about opening doors for those who come after us.”
Vision for the Future
Dr. Durrant’s next chapter is defined by legacy and innovation. She is preparing to launch a private practice rooted in affirming, patient-centered surgical care, while also building generational wealth for her young son and the communities she serves.
Her work reminds us that healing is not confined to the operating room. It is about reshaping systems, building inclusive platforms, and ensuring that future generations inherit a healthcare system designed to serve all.
Editorial Note: A Call to Reflect
Dr. Audrey C. Durrant’s journey illustrates the powerful intersection of skill, vision, and purpose. From the precision of pediatric surgery to the disruptive innovation of AI-powered health solutions, she has redefined what it means to be a physician-leader.
Her story challenges us to consider:
- How do we create spaces where every voice is heard?
- What systems must we rebuild to ensure equity in care?
- And how can leadership extend beyond personal success to community transformation?
As readers, leaders, and changemakers, we are invited to reflect on her words—“We are stronger together”—and carry them into our own spheres of influence.
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