Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation’s only Black and Catholic institution, has joined forces with LCMC Health to address healthcare disparities and cultivate a more diverse and inclusive future medical landscape. While LCMC and Xavier both have a long-standing dedication to health equity, their strategic partnership will go far beyond just bridging gaps––it will create pathways leading to a more diverse and talented medical workforce in Louisiana. This partnership will also directly support the financial needs of undergraduate students and medical school residents.

The impacts of the partnership between Xavier and LCMC Health are already bearing fruit in the lives of four current Xavierites: Brayanna “Sunshine” Jones, a senior biology pre-med major; Senior Jaela Drumgole, a chemistry major; Jazmine Fernandez, a junior studying biology pre-med; and Karleigh Landry, another junior studying biology pre-med.

Landry shared that the scholarship provided her great reassurance and stability as she prepares to apply for and enter medical school. She expressed how grateful she was to know the support system that Xavier and LCMC have provided will actively propel the future physicians of Louisiana. “I feel extremely blessed and fortunate to be able to be a part of this program; my participation within it makes my lifelong aspiration of becoming a pediatric neurologist seemingly more attainable than before,” said Landry.

Jones, the current Miss Xavier University of Louisiana, says the scholarship she received through the LCMC program has allowed her to explore her future medical career without worrying too much about finances. “This scholarship allows me to pursue my interest in the medical field, introduce me to new topics and challenge myself in new ways! Receiving this award has enhanced my confidence,” she said.

Jones also shared that the support she receives through the program will help her accomplish her goal of going into family medicine and opening her own practice. Drumgole echoes Jones’ sentiments about not having to worry about finances. She has a younger sister entering college this year, and the scholarship funds she received from the LCMC program have been a huge relief to her family.

“Being able to know that you have a community behind you that wants you to succeed and is willing to put resources toward student success- it is reassuring financially and mentally that there are people out there who want the best for you,” said Drumgole. Xavier and LCMC have agreed to focus on three important objectives to help create more equitable, sustainable solutions: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders, Celebrating Legacy and Progress, and Pioneering Programs for Progress.

As part of the Pioneering Programs for Progress initiative, eight graduates of Xavier were recipients of the LCMC Health Medical Pathways Fellowship. These Xavier alums are attending or entering medical school at a Louisiana-based institution and/or have expressed their intent to practice medicine in the state. Congratulations to fellows Kiera McNeary (‘23), Bruana Williams (‘17), Michael Ogbonna (‘20), Sydney Ambrose (‘23), Van Smith, III (‘23), Nora Herrera (‘23), Jordan Anderson (‘18), and Drew Bookman (‘23). Their commitment to elevating Louisiana health sets the standard for the Xavierites who will and are following in their footsteps.

The Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders initiative is a mission that LCMC and Xavier are well-prepared to accomplish together with LCMC’s commitment to fostering a generation of healthcare trailblazers and Xavier being the top producer in the nation of Black graduates who become physicians. A critical part of empowering future leaders is ensuring they have the tools and resources necessary to pursue careers in the medical field.

Fernandez, who has known since childhood that she wanted a career in the medical field, says she was inspired to be a pediatrician by the kindness of her own pediatrician. The first-generation student is excited to be the first physician in her close-knit family. The LCMC program is making it possible for her. “It was an inspiration to read about the program and how it helps. It helped me express myself and really know what I wanted for my future,” said Fernandez.

Xavier University, a beacon of Historically Black College and University (HBCU) excellence, and LCMC Health, an extraordinary nonprofit healthcare system, have created a Unity of Excellence by coming together in this partnership dedicated to dismantling barriers, elevating education, and redefining possibilities for current, past and future Xavierites, as well as for the New Orleans community and beyond. Their shared commitment to excellence is shaping a future where healthcare is more equitable, representative of the diverse population it serves, and knows no boundaries.