Developing minority public health professionals: Faculty, staff, and student perceptions of program effectiveness

The objective of the W.K. Kellogg African-American Public Health Fellowship and Development Program, through funding from the Kellogg Foundation, was to expand students' knowledge regarding public health, introduce them to public health research concepts while enhancing academic and life skills needed for success in graduate school and the world of work; in addition to meaningfully contribute to the reduction of health disparities in South Carolina. Through educational seminars and workshops, students began to develop a foundation that enabled them to conduct research, deliver oral presentations, and write research papers suitable for publication. The project established a synergistic research network that increased interactive health disparities research among all partners and affiliated institutions. A collaborative relationship with the University of South Carolina's Norman J. Arnold School of Public Health (NJA SPH) and South Carolina Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) (Allen University, South Carolina State University, Claflin University, Benedict College, Morris College and Voorhees College) increased the interest and knowledge of African American students and professionals who desire to become prepared health professionals and assume leadership positions in state and community organizations at the forefront of health disparities research. Participating faculty, staff, and student perceptions of how well the program met the stated objectives will be discussed.