American Heart Association HBCU Scholars Program
Closing the gap of health disparities and inequities
Diverse voices have unique perspectives and approaches to health and science. Underrepresented medical professionals are more likely to practice in their communities where cultural sensitivity can create trust and improve outcomes. We’re partnering with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to help students earn professional degrees in the biomedical and health sciences.
Our goal? Simply to increase the number of Black students who apply and are accepted into graduate science, research and public health programs.
HBCU Scholars learn about the health of their communities, participate in research projects, and explore varied career paths. Volunteer mentors give the scholars invaluable professional guidance. If we’re going to close the gap in health disparities, we must have more diverse researchers and medical professionals. A strong education can grow the next generation of African American doctors, nurses, and researchers.
A Relentless Pursuit to Close the Gap
The HBCU Scholars Program is an academic year experience focusing not only on research methodologies but also the social impact that health disparities and inequities have on the Black community. Scholars learn how diverse perspectives enhance scientific investigation, and how cultural sensitivity can create trust and improve clinical outcomes.
The Past Connecting Our Future
Since 2015, the HBCU Scholars Program has changed the impact and trajectory of 139 Black and African American students, ensuring that the pipeline of dedicated and talented biomedical and health science professionals remains open. The majority of our HBCU Scholars have graduated from their respective HBCUs.
The “Heart” of the HBCU Scholars Program
Our dedicated volunteer mentors unselfishly share their time, talents and energy to prepare scholars for a productive professional career in the biomedical and health sciences.
Volunteer mentors are the “heart” of our HBCU Scholars Program. Their influence goes far beyond the time they spend with these brilliant young adults. They are shaping and growing the next generation of African American biomedical science and health care professionals who will impact and transform communities that have had historically greater health risks.
Want to become a volunteer mentor? Email Dr. Charlene Walton for more information.
Contact Us
Funding opportunities to expand the HBCU Scholars Program are available and welcome. If you would like more information, please reach out! We'd love to hear from you.
More AHA Scholarship Programs
Looking for other scholarship opportunities? Check out these additional American Heart Association programs.
EmPOWERED Scholars
Scholarships for students passionate about public health, health equity and community engagement, driven to address social determinants of health.
HSI Scholars
Partnering with Hispanic-serving institutions and their students to create a pipeline for diverse researchers and health care professionals.
Sure Scholars
A unique summer research program for underrepresented college students interested in stem careers.