SPHIS Home » Alumni and Donors » Alumni News » Donors make public health experiences in Ghana a reality for students
Donors make public health experiences in Ghana a reality for students
While reflecting on a recent study abroad trip to Ghana in 2017, SPHIS student Chandler Hawkins says the experience taught her about her roots and potential in a public health career.
“I am thankful for the captivating experience, and will be forever grateful to Dr. Harris for guiding us,” she said.
Each spring semester, associate professor Muriel Harris, PhD, leads students on a trip to Ghana. Many of these students go thanks to the generous support of donors like professor Richard Wilson, PhD, and SPHIS alumnus, Todd Mercier.
When asked why he supports the Ghana trip, Mercier said, “Shortly after finishing my undergraduate degree, I traveled to Ghana. This was an eye-opening experience that forever changed my outlook on life. Studying abroad provides students not only exposure to new people and cultures but also perspectives they would not necessarily gain sitting in a classroom, and this is why I choose to support the SPHIS Ghana trip. I’m happy SPHIS has this program and hope it will continue to provide students with insight, real world experience and education beyond the classroom.”
Harris, who coordinates the trip, added, “The funding support has helped to reduce the financial burden for students. It is a chance for our students to experience both a new culture and public health in a different setting.”
If you would like to help financially support the Ghana trip, please visit our website. Under the tab “Designations” click “Fund” and select “SPHIS Student Travel - Ghana (G2757)”. For more information, contact Tiffany Robinson at tiffany.robinson@louisville.edu or 852 6450.
