Dr. Brent Blackwell’s remarkable journey encompasses a transition from a frugal upbringing outside Chicago to esteemed accomplishments in the medical field. Joining the military at 17 year old, he sought direction and challenge, eventually serving as an Army Ranger combat medic in Afghanistan. His experiences there ignited a passion for medicine, leading him to the College of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, where he excelled as a Kinesiology and Community Health student and recognized as a James Scholar.
Driven by his dedication to service, Blackwell led the Illini Veterans RSO as President in 2017, providing crucial support to over 400 fellow veterans. This commitment to community continued through his academic pursuits, culminating in a medical degree from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in 2022.
Currently, as a resident in general surgery at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, his journey embodies unwavering dedication to excellence, service, and healing, showcasing a profound commitment to saving lives both on and off the battlefield.
Read more about Dr. Blackwell’s military experiences through these features:
2024 University of Nevada, Las Vegas Feature
2017 Champaign-Urbana News-gazette Veteran Feature
2016 Symbols of Service Feature