The University of Louisville School of Medicine’s commitment to conducting community-engaged translational research has allowed for an exclusive opportunity to spend a second year hosting the Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials: Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP). As one of just nine site partners nationwide, the objective of Winn CIPP is to establish a pathway for community-centered clinical researchers from diverse backgrounds.

Winn CIPP offers a unique approach to enhancing diversity in clinical trials. This is achieved by providing a six-week intensive and immersive summer service-learning experience to medical students. Candidates for this program must be underrepresented in medicine and have a commitment to a career path that addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical and translational research.

As a site partner from June 3-July 12, 2024, the UofL School of Medicine will provide a mentored clinical research experience in collaboration with clinical scientists for seven rising second-year medical students from the University of Louisville, University of Kentucky, and University of Des Moines. The scholars will gain knowledge and expertise in community-engaged clinical research to aid in developing a more inclusive and equitable future for healthcare.

Each medical student scholar receives a $7,500 stipend to cover travel, living, and lodging expenses during the six-week service-learning period. This year, the scholars are funded by Robert A. Winn Diversity Clinical Trials Award or the UofL School of Medicine.

“Being chosen as a Winn CIPP site partner is a testament to our unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical and translational research, said Jeffrey Bumpous, M.D., dean of the School of Medicine. “We are excited to support and mentor these talented medical students, and we look forward to the positive impact their work will have on our community and beyond.”

The Winn CIPP scholars currently training at the University of Louisville School of Medicine are:

• Diane Appiasie, University of Louisville
• Izegboya Oyakhire, University of Louisville
• Jayce Clark, University of Des Moines
• Chisom Iloegbunam, University of Kentucky
• Andrea Ballinger, University of Louisville
• Paul Brown, University of Louisville
• Opeyemi Adelugba, University of Louisville

Scholars have the opportunity to gain exposure to clinical research, develop community engagement and leadership skills, and receive mentorship from early-stage clinical investigators involved in the Winn Career Development Award (CDA). During the six-week intensive, the scholars will work diligently on their respective translational research.

“The opportunity to participate in Winn CIPP at the UofL School of Medicine is a truly transformative experience,” said Diane Appiasie, “This experience not only enhances my skills as a future clinical investigator but also allows me to make meaningful impact in underserved communities. I am grateful to the University of Louisville and Winn CIPP for this invaluable opportunity.”

Visit diversityinclinicaltrials.org for eligibility criteria and otherinformation about the Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials Award Program.  

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

• Administrative Support: Sonya Cary and Hannah Crawford, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology
• Co-investigators: Chris Seals, Ph.D.; V. Faye Jones, M.D., Ph.D.
• Site Champions: Dwayne Compton, Ed.D., M.Ed.; Sharon Gordon; Susan Sawning, MSSW; Shorye Durrett, M.D.
• Faculty Mentors: Kalra Dinesh, M.D.; In Kim, M.D.; Adrianna Masters, M.D., Ph.D.; Dr. Choi, D.O.