Dr. Lorenzo Carson A STELLAR JOURNEY: 2023 ALUMNI OF THE YEAR

Dr. Lorenzo Carson, a distinguished alumnus of Albany Technical College, was honored as the 2023 Alumni of the Year. This recognition is a testament to Dr. Carson's outstanding achievements and his unwavering commitment to both his profession and his community.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 2, 1960, in Macon County, Georgia, Dr. Carson's early life was shaped by humble beginnings. He grew up in a community marked by poverty, where educational opportunities were scarce. Despite these challenges, Dr. Carson's journey to success began with a strong foundation laid during his early education at Broad Avenue Elementary School and Highland Elementary School. His academic prowess continued through junior high at River Road Junior High (now Martin Luther King Junior High) and Monroe High School, where he graduated with honors in 1978.

The Path to Radiology

Dr. Carson's initial post-secondary journey led him to Albany Technical Institute, where he enrolled in the Radiologic Technology program in 1979. Graduating with honors in 1981, he received numerous awards for his academic and clinical excellence. During his junior year, he began working as a student technologist at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, where he gained invaluable experience and eventually supervised a weekend shift.

His dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed. Driven by a newfound calling, Dr. Carson took the SAT without preparation and was accepted into Albany State College, where he majored in Biology. During his college years, he balanced full-time work at Phoebe Putney and part-time work at Mitchell County Hospital, all while conducting NIH-funded research. He graduated Magna Cum Laude, achieving the highest average in Biology.

Medical School and Residency

Dr. Carson's academic journey continued at the University of Iowa College of Medicine, where he earned his M.D. in 1995. His residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics was marked by significant achievements, including serving as Junior Chief Resident and Chief Resident. He also contributed to numerous research publications and book chapters in the field of interventional radiology.

A Trailblazer in Radiology

In 1999, Dr. Carson received an invitation from Radiology Associates of Albany to join their team, making history as the first African American radiologist and the only African American interventional radiologist in Albany, Georgia. His contributions to the field are numerous, including his role as a medical advisor for the Radiologic Technology program at Albany Technical College and his involvement in various hospital committees.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

Dr. Carson's success is complemented by his fulfilling personal life. He is a devoted husband to Sharon Carson and a proud father to their two children, Khalil and Keagan. His commitment to his community is evident through his active membership in Mt. Zion Baptist Church and the Gamma Omicron Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Legacy and Recognition

Dr. Carson's journey from a modest upbringing to a celebrated medical professional is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As Albany Technical College's 2023 Alumni of the Year, Dr. Carson continues to inspire future generations of students and professionals. His story is not just one of personal achievement, but also of the profound impact that technical education can have on individuals and communities alike.

Every day, I am reminded of how my journey at Albany Tech enabled me to lead, innovate, and build confidently.