At age 12, Dr. Tyler Cepica was diagnosed with the skin disorder vitiligo, and his dermatologist’s office became his sanctuary. Because the treatment he received had such a positive impact, he is intent to continue that legacy of compassionate care as a future dermatologist.

Tyler Cepica, M.D.

What this award means: I strive to live in a way that exemplifies the core tenets of this award through an unwavering commitment to advancing dermatologic patient care, research, and teaching. I am deeply grateful to the mentors who have invested in me with patience and dedication. Additionally, I am profoundly thankful for the love and support of my wife, whose unwavering belief in me played the most significant role in this achievement.

Mentor comment: I’m absolutely thrilled that Tyler was selected for the Excellence in Dermatology Award. Tyler is unique in his devotion to learning, openness to feedback to continuously improve as a physician, and possessing an authentic interest in research. It was a delight to get to know him during his fellowship and be his mentor. I look forward to all he will accomplish. – Heidi Jacobe, M.D., M.S.C.S., Professor of Dermatology and Associate Dean of Clinical Research Development

Background and family: Originally from Lubbock, Texas, I am the oldest of three. I am a first-generation physician and am married to my beautiful wife, Rachel. We now have two amazing children: Sawyer and Magnolia.

What led to your career path: At the age of 12, I was diagnosed with vitiligo. My dermatologist’s office quickly became a refuge from both my own self-doubt and the ridicule of my peers, shaping my early appreciation for compassionate patient care. My personal experience with vitiligo has uniquely prepared me to connect with dermatology patients, particularly in understanding the profound emotional impact of skin disease. This connection has been and will be essential in sustaining my passion for and commitment to advancing dermatologic patient care. As a research fellow in the UT Southwestern Dermatology-Rheumatology Clinical and Translational Research Fellowship, my passion for dermatology has also evolved into a love for teaching, research, and mentorship.

College: I graduated summa cum laude from Abilene Christian University, majoring in biochemistry and minoring in biology as well as Bible, missions, and ministry.

UTSW activities: I served as a student manager of the Agape Dermatology student-run free clinic, teaching assistant for the UT Southwestern School of Health Professions Human Anatomy course, co-Chair of the Alpha Omega Alpha Research Committee, coordinator of the Dallas Binational Health Fair SPOT Skin Cancer Screening Program, officer of the Southwestern Christian Fellowship, research fellow in the Dermatology-Rheumatology Clinical and Translational Research Fellowship, and preceptee for the Rheumatology Research Foundation Medical and Graduate Student Preceptorship.

Surprising fact: I am a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, with a dream to open a medical-themed coffee shop!

Future plans: After completing my residency here at UT Southwestern, I hope for a long career in academic medicine with a focus on caring for rheumatologic dermatology patients.

About the award: The award is given to students who have advanced dermatological patient care, research, or teaching in a special way, or who show promise for leadership in these areas.