Students Majoring in STEM Studies at Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College and Morehouse College Receive Scholarships

The American Heart Association announces expansion of its HBCU Scholars program to include 46 students at 23 institutions pursuing health care careers

ATLANTA, October 28, 2021 – According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, only 7% of medical students, 6% of medical school graduates, and only 5% of physicians are Black. In an effort to address that disparity, the American Heart Association (AHA), the leading public health nonprofit devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, has announced that 46 students from 23 institutions will participate in the largest class to-date of its HBCU Scholars program, including Alonzo Frederic and Darryl Sams at Morehouse College; Diajah Kidd and Kirlandria Harris at Clark Atlanta University; Lauren Mitchell and Maya Blasingame at Spelman College, thanks to a significant commitment from Quest Diagnostics.

Accepted students were selected based on their GPA, a completed application which included an essay, and a recommendation from their school. During the program year, the scholars are paired with a mentor, participate in a leadership development program, and are awarded a $7,000 scholarship. More about the HBCU Scholars can be found here.

“The American Heart Association HBCU Scholars program meets the call for the urgent need to increase the number of African American students majoring in the biomedical and health science,” said Marcus Brown, M.D., Northside Hospital cardiologist and president-elect for the Metro Atlanta American Heart Association. “It is imperative that the African American community is represented in the science and health industry to help close the gap in health disparities and achieve health equity in our country.”

Since 2015, the HBCU Scholars Program has changed the impact and trajectory of 63 minority students, ensuring that the pipeline of dedicated and talented biomedical and health science professionals remains open.

Sophomores, juniors and seniors from historically underrepresented communities with a 3.0 GPA or higher, who are currently enrolled in an HBCU and seeking a professional degree in biomedical and health sciences are eligible for the program.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.