Office of Cultural Enhancement and Diversity
Location:
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M1-103C, Medical School
Associate Dean: Susan B. Wilson, Ph.D., MBA
The UMKC School of Medicine is committed to developing and maintaining an academic and professional environment that promotes diversity. This commitment is based on the belief that a medical education has a responsibility to prepare future doctors with skills necessary to meet the needs of patients in an increasingly diverse society. In addition, research indicates that a diverse pool of physician-researchers is important to eliminating health disparities in the treatment of many chronic diseases, including hypertension, asthma, diabetes, cardiac and renal diseases.
The Office of Cultural Enhancement and Diversity was established in October of 1990 by Dr. Reaner Shannon. Currently, Dr. Susan B. Wilson provides advocacy for students seeking support in academic, administrative, and personal matters. The office works closely with faculty and staff to increase awareness of factors and resources that improve the climate for all students, particularly underrepresented minority students. The goals of the office include:
- To promote policies, initiatives and resources that create an environment of success of for underrepresented students and faculty.
- To increase the pool of academically-prepared underrepresented minority students available to enter medical or health science education.
- To strengthen connections between the medical school and community it serves through service learning, research and other collaborative opportunities
- To provide leadership, consultation and oversight for diversity activities involving students, faculty and staff
- To encourage collaborative initiatives that improve the cultural and linguistic competency of students and faculty.
Susan B. Wilson, Ph.D., MBA
wilsonb2@umkc.edu
816-235-1780
Kenneth Beene, M.S.
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Merriam Massey.
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beenek@umkc.edu |
masseym@umkc.edu |
Diversity Council
Summer Scholars Program
The Summer Scholars Program is a four-week educational/preparatory experience that introduces selected high school juniors and seniors to a myriad of opportunities in the health care field. The program is designed to identify talented minority and economically disadvantaged high school juniors and seniors and to encourage them toward careers in medicine and other health careers. Applications are sent to high school counselors in March. The program is held during the month of July. Brochures are available.
Saturday Academy
Saturday Academy is an enrichment program designed to strengthen the math and science skills of participating students. Students will recognize and develop their potential to excel in mathematics, science, reading, and test-taking skills. This free program is totally educational, running concurrent with the school year from October through May. It is open to motivated middle and high school students in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
The purpose of Saturday Academy is to enhance pre-college education for students belonging to groups traditionally underrepresented in scientific careers.
This includes African American, Native American, and Hispanics. However, the program is open to any student who is motivated and interested in attending. More infromation > > >