Dr. James Freeman: A Trailblazer in Medicine and Education

By Pat Freeman, The Mighty O’Ba

Dr. James Freeman

When Dr. James Freeman graduated from the University at Buffalo Medical School in 1974, he made history as the institution’s first African American student to hold a doctorate and earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. At the time, he was one of only forty African Americans in the United States to achieve this distinction.

Dr. Freeman earned a PhD in physiology from Georgetown University before joining Howard University as an assistant professor in the Department of Zoology. During his tenure at Howard, he mentored and graduated more than 300 students, many of whom later went on to earn doctorates and medical degrees. His success at Howard led to his recruitment by the University at Buffalo Medical School. While pursuing his medical degree, Freeman also served as a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Biochemistry.

After completing his medical training, Freeman launched a private practice in obstetrics and gynecology at 50 High Street. He was later appointed Medical Director for the Division of Drug Abuse for the City of Buffalo.

Throughout his career, Freeman published 33 papers on women’s health and earned recognition for his excellence as both a physician and instructor. He also contributed to groundbreaking research at prestigious institutions such as the Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research and E.R. Squibb and Sons in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

In 1986, prompted by a complaint from his wife, Allie, about the discomfort of hospital gowns, Freeman designed a discreet yet medically accessible gown. His innovative design was awarded a patent, marking yet another accomplishment in his remarkable career.