He is conducting research to reduce disparities in depression care among African Americans. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia, where he majored in Psychology. He then attended Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia.Dr. Hankerson received both his MD degree and Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Emory. This training equipped him with knowledge to optimize healthcare systems that provide care for underserved populations. His long-term goal is to create a faith-based mental health network through which to reduce stigma and increase access to mental health care. Dr. Hankerson’s professional affiliations include President of the Black Psychiatrists of Greater New York & Associates, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the American Psychiatric Association.