A strategic partnership aimed at increasing diversity at the clinical research investigator level has been formed between the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) and the Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS). With more than 1,500 members, ABC has active memberships that brings diversity to clinical research at the investigator level and, in concert with SCRS, are looking forward to increasing their contribution to clinical research.

FDA has declared 2016 the "Year of Diversity in Clinical Trials" and SCRS is dedicated to this important public health mission. "Through this partnership SCRS will provide education and mentoring that promote site sustainability while addressing the need to enhance the inclusion of the diverse investigators," said Christine Pierre, President of SCRS. "Diversity at the investigator level is an important part of increasing diversity amongst clinical research participants, which is critical to ensuring effectiveness and safety data is available and reliable across all populations."

"Increasing clinical trial diversity is critically important to eliminating disparities" said Cassandra McCullough, CEO of the ABC. "This very timely and strategic partnership with SCRS -- focusing on investigator diversity -- builds on our previous successes and our longstanding commitment to achieving greater clinical trial diversity, inclusion and health."

About SCRS
SCRS, a global trade organization founded in 2012 and represents over 2,800 research sites in 42 countries. SCRS' mission is to unify the voice of the global clinical research site community for greater site sustainability. SCRS has become an active partner in industry-wide initiatives and dialogues focused on improving the clinical research enterprise. Sites and the companies that sponsor or support the work conducted at clinical research sites will benefit from membership and partnership. Visit MySCRS.org.

About the Association of Black Cardiologists

Founded in 1974, the Association of Black Cardiologists, Inc., (ABC) is a nonprofit organization with an international membership of 1,500 health professionals, lay members of the community (Community Health Advocates), corporate members, and institutional members. The ABC is dedicated to eliminating the disparities related to cardiovascular disease in all people of color. Today, the ABC's public and private partnerships continue to increase our impact in communities across the nation. Visit abcardio.org.