Investing in a More Diverse, Equitable and Inclusive Future

Over the last year and a half, we’ve seen the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 in communities of color. While we can’t change the past, we can find ways to build a better future. By investing to support more culturally-competent care, we’re taking steps to address the underlying causes of health disparities.

At CommonSpirit Health, we are committed to transforming the health care workforce and creating educational access so we can build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce that better represents our patients and the communities we serve.

As part of that mission, I’m pleased to share the launch of the CommonSpirit Equity Impact Scholarship. We are establishing a $3 million scholarship program to create opportunities that support more diverse leadership in health care, further breaking down barriers to access and creating more pathways to education. The scholarship is open to CommonSpirit employees, as well as health care professionals of all backgrounds who are looking to develop their knowledge and expertise through skills-based training.

The scholarship provides low- or no-cost access to top-tier institutions and educational programs offered through Dignity Health Global Education (DHGE), CommonSpirit’s partner in workforce development. Over 1,000 scholarships ranging from $1,500–$35,000 will be awarded. The 2021 fund spans eight certificates and three degree programs that DHGE offers, including an MBA in Healthcare at Northern Arizona University and an RN to BSN completion at Mercy College.

The Equity Impact Scholarship is part of CommonSpirit’s broader mission to shape the future health care workforce by making it accessible to people who are often underrepresented in the field. In addition to the scholarship, we are advancing this work through other initiatives, like our 10-year, $100 million partnership with Morehouse School of Medicine, which aims to train the next generation of culturally competent clinicians.

By creating more opportunities for diverse health care leaders and clinicians, we can reduce health disparities in communities of color and improve patient outcomes. It is all interconnected and vital in building healthier, safer communities.

You can learn more and apply for the CommonSpirit Equity Impact Scholarship by visiting https://dhge.org/equity-impact-scholarship. Contact [email protected] with questions.