Programs and Initiatives
The Office of Community Advancement offers a variety of programs, initiatives, and events to support the College of Medicine, the University of Kentucky, and beyond, in line with the five focus areas of the Community Advancement strategic plan. Read more below to learn about some of these key programs.
Adopting Supportive Practices for Interconnectedness in Research Environments (ASPIRE) Program
In partnership with CELT (Center for the Engagement of Learning and Teaching), OCA launched the Adopting Supportive Practices for Interconnectedness in Research Environments (ASPIRE) program. This program is designed for faculty members who are interested in developing skills for fostering a community of interconnectedness within research environments. The ASPIRE program consists of three in-person workshops and four online, asynchronous modules. ASPIRE's goal is to provide participants with tools and approaches to create welcoming research and experiential learning spaces.
Building Excellence and Achievement in Medicine (BEAM)
Led by the Office of Community Advancement, the Building Excellence and Achievement in Medicine (BEAM) program meets monthly during the academic year to engage sixth through eighth grade students in an interactive exploration of various healthcare topics. These sessions are designed to spark curiosity and excitement about medicine, featuring hands-on activities that inspire young scholars to envision their future in the medical field. Sessions are guest-hosted by representatives from departments and centers within the UK College of Medicine or health science colleges. To learn more and get involved, please contact CommunityAdvancement@uky.edu.
Community Advancement Ambassadors
The Office of Community Advancement supports College of Medicine departments and centers through the Community Advancement Ambassadors program, through which each department or center can appoint a faculty or staff member to lead Community Advancement efforts within that department. Ambassadors implement departmental initiatives and attend monthly meetings and semi-annual retreats.
Community Advancement through Research and Education (CARE) Program
To advance transdisciplinary, community-based engagement that fosters team science and mentorship to address social determinants of health and improves health outcomes, the Office of Community Advancement offers funding to support meritorious projects. Each year-long project is conducted by a team of learners, trainees, and faculty advisor(s) partnered with a community organization. From establishing a student-led clinic to creating a 3D-printed educational kidney model, CARE projects are inspiring and innovative examples of what can be accomplished through collaboration and community effort.
Pathway Programs
The College of Medicine offers pathway opportunities at varying levels of education, from high school through undergraduate studies. Each program includes unique activities that aid in preparing students for a career in medicine. These programs include:
Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) Scholars
UK’s Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) was established in 1982 and restructured in 2019 to include the PEPP Scholars program and the PEPP MD program.
PEPP Scholars is a summer academic enrichment program that exposes high school graduates to the field of medicine in the hope of solidifying their commitment to the career path. The one-week program affords young scholars the chance to observe, network, and volunteer within the health care setting. Learn more about the program and how to apply here.
Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) MD
The Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) MD is an academic enrichment program for rising college sophomores who are interested in becoming physicians to serve the Commonwealth. The two-week program is tailored to provide more intense and focused exposure to the professions. In addition, this program affords young scholars the chance to observe, network, and volunteer within the health care setting while gaining further understanding of the profession and requirements for future admission to medical school. Learn more about the program and how to apply here.
University of Kentucky Medical Education Development Program (UKMED)
Now in its 14th year, the University of Kentucky Medical Education Development Program (UKMED) is an annual recruitment program hosted by the UK College of Medicine. The goal of this annual recruitment program is to attract individuals who are familiar with challenges in receiving safe, effective, patient-centered, and efficient health care. Participants have the unique opportunity to gain a glimpse of life in medical school through interactions with students and faculty. In addition, participants will develop skills and gain experiences that will strengthen their candidacy for medical school. Learn more about the program and how to apply here.