Yvonne Gomez-Carrion

In what ways do you feel you contribute to the Harvard community?
I am Yvonne Gomez-Carrion and I am a gynecologist who strives to deliver outstanding care to all of my patients regardless of race, educational level, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. Clinical work currently occupies roughly three quarters of my time, with the remainder devoted to teaching and mentoring young attendings, residents, and medical students here at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School.

Because I believe that knowledge is power for patients as well as providers, I have been excited and committed to teaching patients about their bodies, well-being, medical issues, and options for treatment both in and out of the hospital setting. In addition to clinical care and teaching, I spend approximately 12 hours per month mentoring high school and college students. In addition, I reserve a few hours each month to speak on various women's health subjects to community groups.

What is the significance of the object you brought with you to the photo shoot?
The object that I brought to the photo shoot, is a quilt that represents my "Family's Coat of Arms." The plow is symbolic of my family's early beginnings on a South Carolina plantation. The tri-square represents our involvement in trade and the lamp stands for my family's continuing quest for knowledge. If it were not for the grace of God, love, support and guidance of my family, I would not be who I am today.

I am enthusiastic about continuing my commitment to clinical care that is innovative and compassionate, and to help educate the next generations of outstanding ob/gyn providers in the stimulating setting of BIDMC and Harvard Medical School.

In the words of my great grandfather John, who earned his freedom from slavery, "By the grace of God, my family will CARRY-ON!" He did not take his master's name when he walked off the plantation in South Carolina; hence, the origin of my name.