Program Vision

The vision of the new Kellogg Health Scholars Program reflects the interconnected roles of research, policy and practice in reducing and eliminating health disparities, and the development of academic, policy and community leaders who understand and can influence these related activities. The program will provide a comprehensive approach to achieving a closer connection between scholars and those engaged in community, policy-making, policy advocacy and practice.

Program Goals

1. Develop a cadre of future leaders in academic, policy-making, policy-advocacy and health-related agencies with an understanding of social determinants of health disparities, and how health disparities research can influence federal, state and local health policy.

2. Provide postdoctoral training opportunities for future leaders, incorporating skills in (a) conducting research to enhance understanding of the causes of health disparities and the potential policies and interventions to address disparities, (b) translation and dissemination of research to maximize its value in policy-making, (c) development of partnerships between academic institutions, community-based organizations, and organizations engaged in public health practice, (d) understanding and applying the principles of community-based participatory research, and (e) multi-cultural competency.

3. Increase the racial and ethnic diversity of faculty at health professions schools and in leadership positions at health-related policy, advocacy and practice organizations.

4. Enhance the capacity of community-based organizations working in communities experiencing health disparities to initiate and participate in health disparities research and to advocate effectively for policy changes that address these disparities.