by Dr. Mazer Ally & Dr. Corlan Eboh; ACG Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
This September and October, the American College of Gastroenterology proudly celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring the remarkable contributions of Latinx professionals who have left an indelible mark on the field of gastroenterology.
Throughout the month, we will spotlight the trailblazers, visionaries, and dedicated practitioners whose excellence and unwavering commitment have elevated our specialty. These stories are a testament to the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness the Latinx community brings to the forefront of medicine.
Join us in this celebration as we pay tribute to the powerful legacies and inspiring achievements of Latinx professionals who continue to shape and redefine the future of gastroenterology. Together, we honor their contributions and reaffirm our dedication to a more inclusive and diverse field where every voice and every heritage is celebrated with pride.
Spotlights
Nicolette Juliana Rodriguez, MD, MPH
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the American College of Gastroenterology proudly recognizes the remarkable achievements of Nicolette Juliana Rodriguez, MD, MPH—a trailblazer in gastroenterology and a passionate advocate for healthcare equity. Dr. Rodriguez’s work addresses disparities in access to cancer genetics and prevention, making her a pivotal force in the fight for better healthcare access among historically marginalized communities.
A gastroenterologist and clinical investigator at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), Dr. Rodriguez leads initiatives reshaping the future of gastroenterology. She serves as the physician lead of the newly developed Centers for Early Detection and Interception (CEDI) GI Clinic at DFCI, where she provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care to patients with precursor gastrointestinal lesions—those at risk for developing cancer. Dr. Rodriguez plays a critical role in reducing cancer risks by focusing on early detection and prevention.
Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Rodriguez is an inspirational leader in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in medicine. As Director of URiM (Underrepresented in Medicine) Fellow Initiatives within the Department of Medicine at BWH, she is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive medical community for URiM fellows. Her commitment to mentorship, community building, and improving access to training opportunities for URiM fellows underscores her deep passion for creating a more equitable healthcare workforce.
Dr. Rodriguez’s academic journey is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. After earning her undergraduate degree in Community Health and Hispanic Language, Literature, and Culture from Brown University, she pursued both her Master of Public Health and Doctor of Medicine at Brown, demonstrating her dedication to both public health and clinical excellence. She completed her internal medicine residency at Yale New Haven Hospital and her fellowship in gastroenterology, hepatology, and endoscopy at BWH. Her training has been the foundation for her impactful career, where she seamlessly integrates clinical care, research, and education with a focus on health equity.
Her dedication to addressing racial and ethnic disparities in cancer care has been nationally recognized. Dr. Rodriguez has received prestigious awards, including the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Catalyst Award and the Harvard Catalyst K12 Award. She is leading the the Racial/ethnic Equity in GENetic Education Risk Assessment and TEsting (REGENERATE) study, which assesses barriers and facilitators to cancer genetics care among Black and Latino/a/x communities impacted by pancreatic cancer. Her research is not only advancing scientific understanding but is aimed at actively transforming how care is delivered to underrepresented racial, ethnic, and low socioeconomic status populations.
Dr. Rodriguez’s leadership extends far beyond her research and clinical practice. As a champion of diversity and inclusion, she mentors numerous URiM residents interested in pursuing a career in gastroenterology and gastroenterology fellows. Her efforts to increase representation and inclusion within the field of gastroenterology are shaping the future of medicine, ensuring that the next generation of healthcare leaders reflects the diversity of the communities they serve.
More than a physician and a researcher—she is a changemaker. Her passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of equity in healthcare are a source of inspiration for the entire gastroenterology community. The American College of Gastroenterology is honored to celebrate Dr. Nicolette Juliana Rodriguez, a shining example of leadership, compassion, and excellence in our field.
Freddy A. Caldera, DO, MS, PhD, FACG
The American College of Gastroenterology is proud to highlight Dr. Freddy Caldera during Hispanic Heritage Month. Born in Nicaragua and later immigrating to the United States, Dr. Caldera has emerged as a global leader in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with a focus on optimizing disease management and advancing vaccination strategies to protect vulnerable patient populations.
Currently, Dr. Caldera serves as a gastroenterologist and Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. In addition to his MD, he earned a PhD in Clinical Investigation, demonstrating his dedication to advancing impactful research in IBD. His work in immunology, particularly in optimizing vaccination for immunosuppressed patients, has the potential to significantly reduce preventable diseases and improve patient outcomes.
Growing up in a Spanish-speaking household, Dr. Caldera’s deep connection to his cultural roots, combined with his parents’ emphasis on education and perseverance, shaped both his strong work ethic and his desire to give back to the community. These values continue to influence his medical career, driving his commitment to improving patient care and mentorship. His heritage has profoundly shaped his approach to medicine. He fosters empathy and cultural competence, bridging gaps in healthcare delivery for diverse populations. His efforts ensure that patients from all backgrounds receive equitable, high-quality care.
Beyond patient care, Dr. Caldera’s contributions to medical research focus on the intersection of gastroenterology and immunology. His innovative research addresses vaccine-preventable diseases in immunosuppressed IBD patients, aiming to optimize vaccination protocols and reduce risks associated with preventable illnesses.
Additionally, Dr. Caldera is passionate about educating and mentoring future gastroenterologists, emphasizing the importance of diversity in medicine. His leadership as a Hispanic physician-scientist inspires underrepresented minorities in the field, proving that diverse perspectives are crucial in tackling complex health challenges.
Dr. Caldera exemplifies educational excellence, a strong work ethic, and a passion for teaching the next generation. The American College of Gastroenterology celebrates his significant contributions to the field and his unwavering dedication to diversity, equity, and education in medicine.
Esther A. Torres, MD, MACG
In celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, the American College of Gastroenterology is deeply honored to spotlight the extraordinary achievements of Esther A. Torres, MD, MACP, MACG, AGAF, FAASLD—a true luminary in the field of gastroenterology.
Dr. Torres’ career is marked by an unwavering commitment to advancing the care of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Her work, particularly within the Hispanic community, has transformed clinical practices and brought hope and improved the quality of life for countless patients and their families across Puerto Rico.
Dr. Torres has been a beacon of excellence, leadership, and compassion as a Professor Emeritus at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. She is the visionary founder of the Fundación Esther A. Torres pro-Enfermedades Inflamatorias del Intestino, Inc. (FEAT), a nonprofit foundation dedicated to raising awareness and providing critical education about IBD in Puerto Rico. Under her guidance, FEAT has organized numerous symposia, workshops, and public health initiatives, making a profound difference in the lives of those affected by these chronic conditions.
In addition to her work with FEAT, Dr. Torres’ vision and dedication led to the establishment and growth of the University of Puerto Rico Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. This interdisciplinary and patient-centered service has become a cornerstone of IBD care on the island, a testament to her commitment to holistic, compassionate, and culturally sensitive medical practice. The center, which receives patients from throughout Puerto Rico, highlights Dr. Torres’ vision and dedication, offering a crucial resource for patients and families in need.
Dr. Torres’ medical contributions extend far beyond her clinical and educational endeavors. She has been recognized with some of the highest honors in the field, including being named a Master of both the American College of Gastroenterology and the American College of Physicians—an honorary title given to individuals who have made significant contributions to gastroenterology. Masters of the ACG (MACGs) are considered leaders and influencers in the field, and their work helps to promote the ACG’s mission of improving patient care and digestive health.
What truly sets Dr. Torres apart is her passion for equity in healthcare and her relentless pursuit of excellence in all she does. Her legacy is one of profound impact—she has shaped the future of gastroenterology and paved the way for future generations of physicians, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Her work continues to inspire and guide, ensuring that the next generation of healthcare providers is as dedicated to inclusion, diversity, and excellence as she has been throughout her remarkable career.
At the ACG, we are incredibly proud to honor Dr. Esther A. Torres during Hispanic Heritage Month. Her achievements are a source of inspiration and pride for the entire gastroenterology community, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence and uplift the field for years to come.
Educational Resources
ACG Virtual Grand Rounds (delivered in Spanish)
- ACG Clinical Guideline: Diagnosis and Management of Gastroparesis
Dr. Sarah K. McGill & Dr. Sergio A. Sánchez-Luna - Biologics in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Dr. Maria T. Abreu & Dr. Fernando S. Velayos - Post-COVID-19 Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction/Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Dr. Max J. Schmulson
Health Equity & DEI Module on the ACG Education Universe
ACG’s Health Equity & DEI Module features a comprehensive educational program dedicated to providing updates on diversity, equity and inclusion topics. The modules include content specifically designed to allow the learner to increase knowledge and develop strategies that can be implemented into practice.