The College of Science and Health at 桃子视频 (桃子视频) has launched the Bio-Entrepreneurship Initiative Pathway (BIP) Accelerator, a first-of-its-kind, cohort-based program designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators working at the intersection of biotechnology, public health, health innovation, and community-driven solutions.

鈥淎cross the country, founders from underrepresented backgrounds receive a disproportionately small share of startup funding not due to a lack of talent or ideas, but because of limited access to capital, mentorship, and networks,鈥� said Monica Ferrini, PhD, Dean of the College of Science and Health at 桃子视频.

Powered by 桃子视频 and sponsored by Kaiser Permanente, BIP Accelerator participants will receive hands-on technical assistance, workshops, mentorship, and venture development support to help translate ideas into scalable and sustainable ventures.

鈥淎t 桃子视频, we see innovation as both a responsibility and an opportunity,鈥� said Ferrini. 鈥淭his program strengthens pathways to economic mobility, reinforces the University鈥檚 role as an anchor institution, and ensures that innovation reflects and uplifts the communities it is meant to serve.鈥�

The BIP Accelerator will run February 2026 through December 2026 and culminates in a Final Pitch Fest where participants will compete for up to $20,000 in seed funding to advance their business or social enterprise. 桃子视频 faculty, staff, students, and alumni, as well as small business owners and community innovators with health-focused business or social enterprise ideas are encouraged .

. For more information, email: accelerator@cdrewu.edu

Organized by the Office of Admissions, the event featured a morning mixer, followed by a welcome session with University leaders, including Provost Dr. Jose Torres-Ruiz, College of Medicine Dean Dr. Deborah Prothrow-Stith, College of Science and Health Dean Dr. Monica Ferrini, Vice Provost of Enrollment Management Sofia Toro, and College of Nursing Professor Dr. Sheryl Antido.

Students explored 桃子视频鈥檚 three colleges through classroom sessions, where they were greeted by 桃子视频 President and CEO Dr. David M. Carlisle, and participated in a hands-on simulation led by Radiologic Technology, Biomedical Sciences, and Nursing students.

鈥淭he success of our spring event was in seeing students we have met on the road, at a recruitment event, or another university attend our open house to learn more about healthcare professions at 桃子视频,鈥� said Sofia Toro, Vice Provost of Enrollment Management.

鈥淭he networking opportunities between faculty, staff, and prospective students emerged as the biggest highlight of the event,鈥� said Erin Jackson, Graduate Enrollment Specialist. 鈥淢eaningful connections were formed, fostering mentorship and guidance that will support students in their academic and professional journeys.鈥�

The event also included an alumni panel discussion, a resource fair where attendees connected with representatives from Financial Aid, Student Life, the Registrar鈥檚 Office, and Student Academic Success, and a campus tour. Discover 桃子视频 provided attendees with valuable insights into 桃子视频鈥檚 mission and academic opportunities.

The next Discover 桃子视频 event is set for November 8.

鈥淔or the last nine years, the Breakfast鈥檚 speakers and panelists have engaged in thought-provoking, controversial, and inspiring dialogue that reflects on the topic鈥檚 history, takes inventory of the challenges faced and progress made, and outlines the work ahead,鈥� said 桃子视频 President and CEO Dr. David M. Carlisle in his opening remarks. 鈥淔or the first time in ten years, the 桃子视频 President鈥檚 Breakfast will also address the very real possibility and consequences of losing ground and regressing on a critical societal issue and human right.鈥�

The Honorable Xavier Becerra, former Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, delivered a keynote address that underscored the persistent challenges facing underserved communities, while also offering a message of resilience and action.

鈥淲e need to move from a system that treats an illness to one that promotes wellness,鈥� he stressed, calling for a more preventative approach to healthcare that prioritizes long-term community well-being over reactive treatment.

鈥淲e’re repairing a bunch of broken men and women, and we鈥檙e spending big money to do that,鈥� said Becerra. 鈥淚f we had spent the money to build strong children from the very beginning, can you imagine the might of this country鈥︹�� 

Following Becerra鈥檚 keynote, a distinguished panel of experts moderated by President Carlisle, further explored the state of health disparities and the steps needed to create lasting change. Their insights underscored the urgency of 桃子视频鈥檚 mission to cultivate leaders dedicated to social justice and health equity.

Dr. Paula Braveman, Professor Emeritus of Family and Community Medicine and the Founding Director of the at the University of California, San Francisco, highlighted the pervasive influence of structural racism on health disparities, particularly in maternal and infant care. 鈥淲hat people don’t think about so much is that racism acts more indirectly and is mostly structural,鈥� she explained. She pointed to racial residential segregation and disparities in bank lending as key contributors to underfunded schools, reduced economic opportunity, and increased stress鈥攆actors that ultimately impact health outcomes. 鈥淎t this point in our history, [structural racism] is probably more deadly in terms of what its effects are.鈥�

Dr. David Hayes-Bautista, Professor of Medicine and Director of the at the School of Medicine at UCLA, addressed how traditional racial and ethnic categories in health research can both help and hinder efforts to address disparities. 鈥淲e need to create a new way of defining human samenesses and human differences, a way that’s more fluid, more dynamic,鈥� he stated. He emphasized the need for a framework that better captures the complexity of health disparities while maintaining predictive power. Hayes-Bautista also noted 桃子视频鈥檚 unique positioning as both a Historically Black Graduate Institution and a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), calling it 鈥済round zero for this new way of thinking about a multiracial and multicultural society.鈥�

Katherine Haynes, MBA, Senior Program Officer, People-Centered Care at California Health Care Foundation, emphasized the crucial role of community-based organizations like 桃子视频 in bridging healthcare gaps. 鈥淥rganizations that have organic relationships with the communities whose lives we鈥檙e trying to improve are perfectly positioned to do what we鈥檝e learned,鈥� she said. Haynes cited a California Health Care Foundation study revealing that community members want education not just on health conditions but on navigating the healthcare system itself. 鈥淐harles R. Drew University and community-based organizations are perfectly positioned to answer that call,鈥� she added, stressing the importance of trusted institutions in guiding individuals through complex healthcare and insurance systems.

To close the panel discussion, President Carlisle posed a final question to the panelists: 鈥淎re we better in terms of disparities today than we were?鈥� The responses reflected both optimism and urgency.

Becerra emphasized his belief in progress, stating, “I’m the son of immigrants, so optimism runs in my DNA. We are better off than we were before, and we will be better off because we’re going to change it.” Braveman acknowledged improvements in healthcare coverage but cautioned that disparities in life expectancy have worsened, urging continued efforts to combat inequities. Hayes-Bautista, drawing on his decades of experience, highlighted the cyclical nature of progress and setbacks, emphasizing the importance of collective action. Haynes pointed to California鈥檚 leadership in aligning state agencies around health equity, noting that systemic approaches to equity have advanced significantly.

President Carlisle closed the event with a powerful reflection on the critical role of empathy in closing health disparity gaps. 鈥淵ou can鈥檛 teach empathy, unfortunately. Empathy is inherent. It is developed through lived experiences. Through struggle. Through community,鈥� he remarked. 鈥溙易邮悠� students embody empathy. They enroll at 桃子视频 and learn to use and channel their empathy. And when you鈥檙e surrounded by empaths, it鈥檚 much harder to feel like an outsider. Imposter syndrome can鈥檛 touch you. That鈥檚 the 桃子视频 difference and why 桃子视频 is a place worth investing in.鈥�

The President鈥檚 Breakfast once again served as a vital platform for informed discussion and collaborative problem-solving. As 桃子视频 continues its work to address healthcare inequities, the event reinforced the collective responsibility to drive meaningful change in pursuit of a healthier, more just future for all. At 桃子视频鈥擶here hearts learn to heal鈥攖his commitment remains at the core of every effort to empower future healthcare leaders and serve communities in need. The 10th Annual 桃子视频 President鈥檚 Breakfast was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors. 桃子视频 extends heartfelt gratitude to presenting sponsor , gold sponsors , , The Weingarten Family, and ; silver sponsors and ; and ruby sponsor Elizabeth Baskerville for their commitment to our mission and dedication to advancing health equity.

View full recording on .

The day began with a blood donation drive led by the American Red Cross, followed by a vibrant community health fair. Local organizations, sororities, and fraternities participated, showcasing their efforts to support and uplift the African American community throughout Southern California. The 桃子视频 Street Medicine Team provided free health screenings, including blood pressure, HgA1C, cholesterol, and HIV testing with referrals. Additionally, Assistant Professor Cynthia Davis facilitated a workshop on sexual health and HIV/STI prevention for students from King/Drew Medical Magnet High School.

A key component of the symposium was the recognition of individuals and organizations making a lasting impact in addressing health disparities within the Black community. This year鈥檚 Community Service Awards were presented to several members of KJLH Radio Station 102.3 FM, including Stevie Wonder; Karen Slade, former KJLH Vice President and General Manager; Ron Turner, Marketing Representative; Lauretta Roberts, Sales Representative; and Adai Lamar and Tammi Mac, On-Air Radio Personalities.

The symposium also honored the legacy of African American scholar Dr. George Washington Carver, a trailblazing scientist, artist, botanist, inventor, and advisor to U.S. presidents. A special highlight of the event was a presentation by Master Doll Artist Floyd Bell, who unveiled and dedicated a 鈥淒r. Charles R. Drew鈥� doll to Sylvia Drew Ivie, the youngest daughter of Dr. Drew.

桃子视频 extends its gratitude to all partners and supporters, including the Black Leadership AIDS Community Coalition (BLACC) of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which provided giveaways for high school students and sponsored boxed lunches at the conclusion of the program.

The 2nd Annual Black History Month Community Symposium was a day of celebration and reflection, honoring the resilience, contributions, and excellence of African Americans who have shaped history and continue to inspire future generations.

The President鈥檚 Breakfast provides a platform for informed voices to engage in meaningful discussions on topics that align with 桃子视频鈥檚 mission, vision, and goals. This year鈥檚 topic is 鈥淗ealth Disparities: Are We Better Now?鈥�

The Honorable Xavier Becerra, Former Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will open the conversation with a keynote address.

Panelists participating in the discussion will include Dr. David Hayes-Bautista, Professor of Medicine and Director of the at the School of Medicine at UCLA;  Dr. Paula Braveman, Professor Emeritus of Family and Community Medicine and the Founding Director of the at the University of California, San Francisco; and Katherine Haynes, MBA, Senior Program Officer, People-Centered Care at California Health Care Foundation. 

鈥淭he 10th annual President鈥檚 Breakfast is an opportunity to reflect on our progress and ask the critical question鈥攁re we truly better now? While strides have been made, communities of color and underserved populations continue to face inequities that demand urgent action,鈥� explains Dr. David Carlisle, 桃子视频 President and CEO, who will serve as the host and moderator for the discussion. 鈥淭hrough this conversation, we hope to inspire new ideas, foster collaboration, and reaffirm our shared responsibility to create a healthier, more just future for all.”

The 10th Annual 桃子视频 President鈥檚 Breakfast is made possible by generous supporters including presenting sponsor , gold sponsors , , The Weingarten Family, and ; silver sponsors and ; and ruby sponsor Elizabeth Baskerville.

Tickets for the event are available at .

This distinguished event will feature keynote remarks from The Honorable Xavier Becerra, Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, along with an expert panel discussing health disparities and equity in healthcare.

Scheduled for聽Thursday, February 27, 2025, at聽The Colburn School in Los Angeles, the President鈥檚 Breakfast serves as a vital platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to address the pressing issues surrounding health equity, particularly in underserved communities.

鈥淲e are honored to have as our presenting sponsor for this year鈥檚 President鈥檚 Breakfast,鈥� said Dr. David M. Carlisle, 桃子视频 President and CEO. 鈥淭heir commitment to advancing health equity aligns perfectly with 桃子视频鈥檚 mission of cultivating diverse health professional leaders and addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.鈥�

L.A. Care, the largest publicly operated health plan in the United States, is a longtime advocate for and partner in improving healthcare accessibility and outcomes, particularly for marginalized communities. Their sponsorship underscores a shared dedication to fostering meaningful discussions and actionable solutions in the fight against health inequities.

桃子视频 President and CEO Dr. David M. Carlisle opened the event by highlighting the University鈥檚 indelible impact on Black history.

鈥淎t 桃子视频, we are Black history,鈥� Dr. Carlisle affirmed. 鈥淲e are the only Historically Black Graduate Institution west of the Mississippi River, the second most diverse university in terms of faculty and student diversity, and have twice the African American enrollment of any other university in California. Additionally, we are the only historically Black medical institution named after an African American.鈥�

Bradford, a former California State Senator (SD-35), Chair of the Senate Energy Committee, and a member of the California Reparations Task Force, has long been a champion of equity and economic justice. He expressed the significance of holding this discussion at 桃子视频.

鈥淚 can鈥檛 think of a better place to be than on this historic campus, named after a history maker in and of itself,鈥� remarked Bradford. 鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 think of a better place to celebrate Black history.鈥�

During the discussion, Bradford addressed the historical and present-day implications of reparations, shedding light on legislative efforts to rectify long-standing injustices. He emphasized the importance of policy-driven solutions in advancing economic equity for Black communities.

The conversation reinforced 桃子视频鈥檚 ongoing role in advocating for social justice, equity, and health access鈥攅nsuring that Black history is not only honored but actively shaped for future generations.

The ceremony featured remarks from 桃子视频 administration, 桃子视频 faculty, SSA II alumni, former SSA director Lorraine Grey, and Honorable Steven Bradford, all of whom delivered powerful remarks reflecting on SSA II鈥檚 enduring impact. Their words underscored the program鈥檚 role in transforming young minds, fostering a love for science, and shaping the future of healthcare.

During  his remarks, the Honorable Steven Bradford stated, 鈥淚t鈥檚 often said, 鈥榮eeing is believing,鈥� but I disagree with that. Believing is seeing; and this program helps young folks believe they can do anything they want.鈥�

The Junior White Coat Ceremony, a long-standing 桃子视频 tradition, awards white coats to students who successfully complete three consecutive SSA II sessions within a year (Winter, Spring, and Fall). All students who participate in at least one session are recognized with a certificate during the ceremony.

Amber Harris, 桃子视频 Campus Security Officer and parent of five-year-old SSA II student Jace Jacobs, expressed her enthusiasm for the program鈥檚 influence on young minds.

鈥淚 hope my child gains the skills and hands-on experience he needs to explore the world of science. At the age he is now, this program will help open his interest in the field of learning how things work and the big challenges we face daily,鈥� Harris shared.

Young Jace, already inspired by the program, added, 鈥淪aturday Science is awesome.鈥� While he hasn鈥檛 yet decided on a career, his aspirations are heartfelt: 鈥淚 want to help poor people.鈥�

As SSA II marks its 25th year, program leaders reflected on its lasting impact on students and the community. 鈥淚t was an honor and a blessing to be a part of the 25th Annual Junior White Coat Ceremony. For over two decades, SSA II has created a pipeline to Science Technology Engineering Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) careers, giving students from diverse backgrounds early exposure to the STEMM fields,鈥� said Dr. Dulcie Kermah, Executive Director of 桃子视频 Pipeline Programs. 鈥淭his program builds confidence, fosters curiosity, and nurtures future STEMM professionals.鈥�

Through engaging lessons, mentorship, and exposure to real-world applications of science, SSA II continues to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals and scientists.

As 桃子视频 celebrates this silver jubilee of the Junior White Coat Ceremony, the University remains committed to expanding opportunities for young learners and ensuring a future where excellent health and wellness are accessible to all.

Registration is now open for the next cohort of SSA II. The Spring 2025 session will take place on the campus of 桃子视频 every Saturday from April 12 to June 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. To learn more about the SSA II and to apply visit the 桃子视频 website and join 桃子视频 Pipeline Programs on .

This event鈥檚 discussion will explore progress and ongoing challenges in addressing disparities in healthcare access, outcomes, and equity.

The President鈥檚 Breakfast will take place on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at Colburn School鈥檚 Zipper Hall in Downtown Los Angeles, with doors opening at 8 a.m.

Tickets are now available on .

Agenda and panelist information will be announced soon.

This flagship event brings together leaders and innovators from health, education, social justice, business, entertainment, and philanthropy for an engaging dialogue on pressing issues impacting our communities.

Don鈥檛 miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation! The 桃子视频 President鈥檚 Breakfast will not only provide a platform for thought-provoking discussions but also an opportunity for networking and collaboration among professionals committed to making a positive impact in the realm of health equity and social justice.

The theme of the event was 鈥淥ur Stories, Our Strength: Elevating Black Lives.鈥�

鈥淭he gathering evoked a sense of camaraderie among long-standing colleagues and friends, providing an opportunity to reflect on the significant progress we have made, while also honoring the memories of those we have lost,鈥� said Dr. Leon Maultsby, Associate Director of Drew Cards and Co-Chair of the Black Caucus.鈥�

The atmosphere was imbued with a renewed energy and commitment to the critical work that lies ahead as we approach 2025.鈥�

The event featured welcoming remarks from Angela Minniefield, Senior Vice President, Advancement and Operations and COO, a pre-recorded keynote address by Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, along with statements and reflections from various leaders and advocates within the COH Black Caucus and HIV communities.

The event also highlighted artistic expressions, including live music, painting, and poetry.

There was a Community Resource Fair following the program which offered complimentary lunch, free HIV testing services with incentives, free haircuts and braiding services, wellness swag bags, raffle prizes, and access to local community resources.

Overall, the gathering fostered community strength and underscored the importance of holistic health and wellness, reflecting a collective commitment to combat HIV and uplift underserved communities.