More than 200 students studying to work in health care professions are receiving $2.25 million in scholarships for the 2016-17 academic year from United Health Foundation.
The funding is part of United Health Foundation's commitment to investing in the country's future, diverse health care workforce. United Health Foundation, in partnership with nine nonprofit and civic organizations, is providing the scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students through its Diverse Scholars Initiative.
"Creating a future health workforce that meets a community's diverse and distinct health care needs is critical to building healthier communities," said Chris Stidman, president of United Health Foundation. "Increasing access to culturally competent care helps reduce health care disparities and improves health outcomes. United Health Foundation is grateful for the opportunity to partner with national organizations and nonprofits to invest in the future health workforce."
Diverse Scholars Initiative and Partners
Since the Diverse Scholar Initiative's inception in 2007, United Health Foundation has awarded more than 1,800 scholarships totaling over $13 million.
"It's been immensely helpful to have the financial support, but also the mentorship opportunities," said Kenji Taylor, a 2013 United Health Foundation and National Medical Fellowships Diverse Scholar. "It's so powerful to have people who inspire you and believe in your ability to do great things." Taylor is currently completing his residency in family medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.
Scholarship applicants must demonstrate financial need, the pursuit of a degree that will lead to a career as a primary care health professional, and a commitment to working in underserved communities.
The nine grant partners will announce individual Diverse Scholars recipients throughout the year.
- American Indian College Fund
- Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund
- Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc.
- Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute
- National Association of Hispanic Nurses
- National Hispanic Health Foundation
- National Medical Fellowships
- The Jackie Robinson Foundation
- United Negro College Fund
United Health Foundation engages with the scholars throughout the year to support their educational and professional goals, including hosting a Diverse Scholars Forum in Washington, D.C., in June. The event will bring together undergraduate-, graduate- and doctorate-level scholarship recipients from across the nation. Scholars will meet with policymakers and thought leaders to discuss the nation's most pressing health issues, network with peers and special guests, and engage in interactive dialogue to share their own ideas and experiences.
Meet our 2016-17 Diverse Scholars throughout the year by visiting the Diverse Scholar Initiative page or follow @UHGGives, #DiverseScholars on Twitter.
About United Health Foundation
Through collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, United Health Foundation works to improve our health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. To date, United Health Foundation has committed more than $285 million to programs and communities around the world. We invite you to learn more at www.unitedhealthfoundation.org or follow @UHGGives on Twitter or Facebook.com/UHGGives.
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