Health Sciences Center office renamed to reflect broader mission on health equity

By Diandre Glover Thomas

The office formerly known as the Health Sciences Center (HSC) Office of Diversity and Inclusion is pleased to announce its new name: the HSC Office of Health Equity and Engagement.

The HSC Office of Health Equity and Engagement, formerly the HSC Office of Diversity and Inclusion, encompasses a wide spectrum of programs aimed at addressing critical healthcare gaps and fostering inclusivity. This includes the Health and Social Justice Scholars Program, an innovative initiative designed to educate professional and doctoral students in an inter-professional manner. Other programs focus on scholarly activities related to health equity, disparities, social justice, and innovation, seeking to benefit underserved populations. Managed by the Office of Health Equity and Engagement in collaboration with multiple schools and community partners, these programs offer a comprehensive framework encompassing conceptual learning, research experiences, mentoring, service learning, and professional development.

“Renaming the office is a journey we started in 2020 as we strived to represent the range of work we have been doing for many years, as well as set the vision for the initiatives we hope to do in the future,” said V. Faye Jones, associate vice president for health affairs, professor, and vice chair of inclusive excellence in the Department of Pediatrics. “At many institutions, official name changes and reorganization take much deliberation and phases, and this was certainly part of our office’s journey. We believe this new name better represents the past, present, and future of our office’s purpose.”

The HSC Office of Health Equity and Engagement also extends its reach through various pre-health initiatives such as the Multicultural Association of Pre-medical Students (MAPS) and the Post-baccalaureate Pre-medical Program. These programs provide vital support and resources for aspiring healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their competitiveness and diversifying the healthcare workforce. The Office oversees scholarships and initiatives like the Post-baccalaureate Pre-medical Program, aimed at increasing primary care physicians for underserved rural and urban areas. These endeavors, along with other initiatives such as the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) and the LGBTQ+ Affirming Healthcare Series, underscore HSC’s commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all individuals.

The name change became effective July 1, 2024.