SUPPORT COMMUNITY SERVICES & LEARNING RESOURCES
Gifts to the the Ethnic Health Institute (EHI) and Center for Community Engagement (CCE) forward important health equity projects like the Maternal & Birth Equity Program, among many others.
The Ethnic Health Institute is a national model for university and community-based partnerships that promote health equity for underserved and ethnic community members.
Preparing and supporting SMU students to serve diverse communities, impact health equity, and increase workforce diversity, the Institute works collaboratively to bridge SMU students, faculty, and staff with diverse community members and the organizations that serve them.
Together Center for Community Engagement & Ethnic Health Institute are working to Diversify the Healthcare Workforce.
SMU’s pathway building programs work to create a robust pipeline of future healthcare workers who come from under-represented backgrounds.
In the words of our students:
"I didn't see many people that looked like me serving as healthcare professionals when I was younger. It might have set the stage for me, and presumptively others, to have a better rapport with their healthcare provider and be more receptive to health-related suggestions/options. It's exactly why I chose an FNP career path so that I can function as a positive light in my community."
- Former ELMSN-FNP 'Student
"For the past ten years, I have gained insight into communities throughout California that are often forgotten. Although I have worked in large, beautiful cities, I have found myself most rewarded in small, rural towns. The people in these areas, often Hispanic migrant workers and laborers, face challenges to health and healthcare accessibility. As a future Nurse Practitioner in primary care, it is my commitment to provide them with high quality care, genuine interest in their health and well-being."
-Former RN, FNP-S, PTA, and ELMSN-FNP Student
