HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall University hosted pre-med and medical students from Delaware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia at the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) Region VIII medical education conference January 13. During the one-day event, attendees engaged in interactive workshops, networking opportunities, panel discussions and keynote presentations led by esteemed professionals and educators in the medical field.

“This was a terrific opportunity to learn about the process of becoming a physician,” said Taylor Pearson, second-year medical student and president of Marshall’s SNMA chapter. “Pre-med students received tips on applying to med school and medical students gained hands-on experience in different career paths they will soon have to choose between.”

“It’s an immersive conference that provides academic enrichment, clinical experience, and leadership development,” said Kendalyn McDaniel, third-year medical student and vice president of Marshall’s SNMA chapter.

SNMA works throughout its 10 regions and local chapters to support current and future underrepresented minority medical students and address the needs of underserved communities and decrease health disparities. Additionally, SNMA’s Minority Association of Pre-medical Students (MAPS) initiative introduces undergraduate students to the field of medicine. Region VIII consists of 12 active SNMA and 19 active MAPS chapters.

Marshall University’s Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine is home to both an SNMA chapter, founded in 2018, and MAPS chapter, founded in 2021. During this conference, Marshall’s SNMA chapter made and donated 100 kits to Cabell Huntington Health Department that included reusable water bottles, fruit cups, bandages, and gauze, along with several other health care supplies.

“Our students are phenomenal and make us proud every day as they continue to work hard to be the voice of minority health issues,” said Shelvy L. Campbell-Monroe, PhD, MPH, associate dean for diversity and inclusion at Marshall University’s medical and pharmacy schools.

Date Posted: Monday, January 15, 2024