Shawna Nesbitt, M.D., M.S.

Contributions to STEMM

Dr. Nesbitt is an expert in the treatment of complex blood pressure disorders. She describes herself as a hypertension specialist. “I provide specialty care for complex hypertension care,” she said.

As a researcher, Dr Nesbitt also focuses on hypertension. She has “conducted clinical research in hypertension, cardiovascular care, and health disparities.” Specifically, she investigates the presentation and genetic predispositions of hypertension among the African American population.

In addition, Dr. Nesbitt serves as Associate Dean for Student Diversity and Inclusion where she leads the efforts to create and identify opportunities for each member of the faculty, student and staff to reach their full potential promoting excellence at UT Southwestern.

Advice for the Next Generation

“As a young person preparing for a career in STEMM, I knew that I had to develop discipline to maintain my focus on my goal regardless of other distractions around me.”

Dr. Nesbitt said of her own path into medicine, “Frequently, I was the only female and the only African American. It was important for me to find mentors from different places to give me guidance for various aspects of my development."

"My advice for young women is to ‘find a few mentors.’ This will help you to shape your unique path. Your path is your own!”

The UT Southwestern Difference

“What I enjoy most about my job is being able to use my ‘whole self’ in accomplishing my job,” Dr. Nesbitt said. “Who I am, where I came from, and my life perspective is useful in the work that I do.  I can use these skills for patient care, research, and administrative work.” Dr. Nesbitt is honored to be included in the Celebrating Breakthroughs Together project, which she sees as “a mark of achievement for the community of UT Southwestern and for women in science and medicine.”