Carolyn Bradley--Guidry
Carolyn Bradley-Guidry, DrPH, MPAS, BSN, PA-C, CPH, is a Professor and Associate Dean for Student Affairs at UT Southwestern Medical Center’s School of Health Professions, where she also holds the endowed title of Distinguished Teaching Professor. She is a trailblazer within her institution, recognized as the first woman and the first faculty member from a historically marginalized racial or ethnic background to be promoted to Professor in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies. In her current leadership role, Dr. Bradley-Guidry oversees comprehensive student affairs operations and is deeply committed to advancing student success from admission through graduation.
With extensive experience spanning health professions education, physician assistant education and clinical practice, nursing, and public health, Dr. Bradley-Guidry brings a uniquely interdisciplinary perspective to academic leadership. Her areas of expertise include interprofessional education, inclusive excellence, workforce diversity, public health, public policy and advocacy, coaching, mentoring, and organizational management. Clinically, her background includes specialization in hypertension management, grounding her academic and administrative work in real-world patient care experience.
A National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities Translational Health Disparities Scholar, Dr. Bradley-Guidry is an accomplished researcher and scholar with a strong record of grant funding, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations at regional, national, and international forums. Beyond academia, she is also the founder of Aligned Ambitions Coaching and Consulting, where she supports individuals and organizations in aligning purpose with performance. Across all facets of her work, Dr. Bradley-Guidry is widely recognized for her dedication to leadership development, equity, mentorship, and the preparation of the next generation of health professionals.
• ICF Member Badge
• 5-Year Anniversary
• University of North Texas Health Science Center
• University of Nebraska Medical Center
• Distinguished Teaching Professor
• President's Award for Scholarly Excellence with Emphasis on Academic Achievement
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
• Association of Schools of Allied Health Professionals
• National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came from mentors who encouraged me to keep moving forward and to trust my purpose, even when the path felt challenging. Dr. Robert Toto consistently urged me to continue pursuing my career with confidence, while Virginia Jones, a program director, reinforced the importance of leadership, service, and staying grounded in my values. Their guidance has shaped my professional journey and continues to inspire my goals, growth, and commitment to mentorship as I build the next chapter of my work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to believe in yourself and never be discouraged by a “no” if you feel passionately about something. Stay persistent, keep moving forward, and trust that other opportunities will present themselves. Follow your passions and commit fully to the work that inspires you—resilience and dedication will guide your growth and success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are faith, transparency, and honesty. Staying grounded in God’s word helps me remain encouraged during challenging times and allows me to focus on the positive, maintaining perspective and purpose in everything I do.