Giving back to the community has been a passion for Dr. Lillian Carter. In college, she became active in outreach projects and tutoring, interests that carried over to her time in medical school. One of her goals as a psychiatrist is to help the underserved, focusing on patients with complex mood disorders.

Lillian Carter, M.D.

What this award means: These awards are meaningful as they represent the dedication that I displayed over the course of medical school. I appreciate being recognized.

Leadership Award mentor comment: Lilly’s drive toward excellence, along with her passion to serve vulnerable populations, were evident in how she addressed many of the challenges faced in service to her class. Her compassion, outstanding communication skills, collaboration, and resilience provide her invaluable skills to face any challenge that may come in her future training and will greatly benefit her future patients. – Angela Mihalic, M.D., Dean of Medical Students and Associate Dean for Student Affairs

Pathology Award mentor comment: Lillian Carter has demonstrated a career of service from the time she was an undergraduate. During medical school, her extensive community service has included volunteering for Shatterproof, a group that advocates for those struggling with addiction. She also served as a volunteer for both COVID-19 vaccine administration and Meals on Wheels. With her humanitarian attributes, she will be an outstanding physician and a credit to our institution. – Kathleen Wilson, M.D., Professor of Pathology and in the Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development

Background and family: I am from Argyle, Texas, where my family currently lives. My family includes my parents, three brothers, and two nephews.

What led to your career path: As a first-generation college student, I was determined to find a meaningful career. I have always been passionate about mental health and giving back to the community, which made a career in psychiatry an easy decision.

College: I attended Baylor University, majoring in biology. I was involved in community outreach and worked as a tutor for various classes. In my free time, I enjoy playing golf and tennis.

UTSW activities: At UTSW, I served as Class of 2024 co-President in student government. I volunteer with Best Buddies and Shatterproof (a national nonprofit transforming addiction treatment). Additionally, I am involved in research related to eating disorders and medical education.

Surprising fact: People would be amazed to know that I am an avid golfer.

Future plans: My desire is to practice psychiatry in a medically underserved location. I hope to work with patients who have complex mood disorders, including bipolar disorder.

About the awards: The Leadership Award annually goes to one or more student officers of the graduation class and includes a $1,000 award. The Reynolds Award honors the late Dr. Reynolds, a UTSW alumnus and faculty member remembered as a gifted pathologist and generous person. The recipient is selected based on humanitarian qualities.