About Us

According to the American Medical Student Association, racial and ethnic minorities comprise approximately 26% of the United States population yet only 6% of Latino, African American and Native American are practicing physicians. Furthermore, according to the National Science Foundation, Hispanics/Latinos only comprise approximately 7% of biological/medical scientists and African Americans only 3% (information on Native Americans not released). In Chicago, Illinois, African Americans comprise of 30.9% of the population, Native Americans 0.3%, and Hispanic/Latinos 29.1%, but remain severely underrepresented in higher education and in science and health-related professions. Altogether, these statistics identify a critical problem: the lack of diversity in medical research and practice. They also identify a critical need for programs which support the recruitment of minorities into these medical profession. To this end, Color of Medicine, our non-profit organization, was created.

Color of Medicine™ non-profit organization is geared toward finding solutions and strategies to promote the inclusion of minority students in STEM and medicine. We believe that the inclusion of all demographics is vital to the advancement of STEM and medicine. By promoting multicultural awareness, we can support the principles of increasing culture competency, reducing racial health disparities, and advocating for increased representation of underrepresented minorities in STEM and medicine.

Our Mission

To promote the advancement of underserved minorities in STEM and medicine through a series of platforms including: mentorship, scholarship, career development, social engagement and community outreach.

Mentorship

Our aim is to provide mentorship to students and young professionals who are interested in STEM and medicine. Our organization wants to promote enthusiasm about these fields to minority students at all educational levels (high school, undergraduate/graduate school, fellowships and residency programs). Our organization will allow them the opportunity to meet with individuals currently active in these fields to discuss various aspects of their careers. Following matriculation into college the organization will continue to support our mentees in obtaining their career goals.

Scholarship

Our aim is to provide financial support to students who show an interest in STEM and medicine. The Board of Directors will select the scholars through an application process based on their racial and/or socioeconomic background, school performance and standardized test scores. Scholars will also have to submit an essay to demonstrate their passion for STEM and medicine by discussing current or previous volunteer opportunities and life experiences. Scholarships will be given on an annual basis and will be renewed annually after evaluations have been conducted.

Career Development

Our aim is to provide training opportunities for minorities to build on techniques and job skills, such as grant and manuscript writing, CV and resume building, and negotiation skills. We also aim to promote minority recruitment into undergraduate/graduate institutions, professions, internships, and fellowships/residencies. This will be executed through creating partnerships with schools/institutions, biotech/pharmaceutical companies, and establishing programs that will allow students to gain the necessary skills to become more marketable in their desired careers.

Social Engagement

To provide opportunities to interact and network with professionals who work in STEM and medical fields. We plan to implement quarterly social meetings and outings.

Community Outreach

To provide outreach to diverse and underrepresented communities through volunteer and service opportunities. We will host various outreach programs throughout the year to give back and in hope to better our communities.

COMING SOON: SERVICES PROVIDED BY CHASING MEDICINE