2015 Distinguished Alumni
Dr. Kofi Boahene is an associate professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery and dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. His practice encompasses the entire spectrum of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, including cosmetic procedures, corrective surgery for congenital facial defects, facial paralysis, open and endoscopic minimally invasive skull base surgery, microsurgery, reconstruction of cancer patients, and extensive post-traumatic deformities.
Boahene grew up in Ghana, West Africa where he completed his primary and secondary education. In 1991, he traveled to Russia to pursue training in veterinary medicine. A mentor encouraged him to do something that would change the course of his life: come to the United States with the goal of becoming a medical doctor.
In 1993, he received the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors Award and graduated from UCA in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He was accepted to medical school, but he could not afford to attend without a co-signer for his student loans. Dr. Jerry Manion, UCA chemistry professor, agreed to sign for his loans so Boahene could attend medical school. Manion taught at UCA for 49 years. He mentored many students throughout his storied career, prior to his death in 2014.
Boahene received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, graduating with highest honors in his class. He completed his residency in otolaryngology head and neck surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.
Over the years, he has received numerous awards as a scholar, teacher and researcher. He has written several scientific articles and abstracts and has contributed chapters to several textbooks in his specialty. Currently, he is focusing on using tissue engineering methods to develop cartilage and bone for reconstruction in the head and neck.
