A.T. Still University’s (ATSU) Dreamline Pathways program held its first four events in partnership with the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District earlier this year. This initiative was made possible by a generous $20,000 sponsorship from Driscoll’s, Inc., along with $2,500 in additional funding from AgWest Farm Credit.
ATSU’s Dreamline Pathways program is a comprehensive community-based collaboration that introduces K-12 students from historically underrepresented groups to graduate health professions programs and nurtures them throughout their journey to healthcare careers.
ATSU, a nonprofit health sciences university, and its partners fully understand the need to prepare healthcare professionals for America’s changing demographics. Providing mentorship and resources to aspiring health sciences students is vital in shaping a future with more inclusive and diverse healthcare systems.
In May, October, November, and December, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) students participated in activity stations led by Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies students at ATSU-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC). Local students learned about dental care, ultrasound, and patient simulation and participated in a question-and-answer session with current PA students.
”SMJUHSD is very thankful for our partnership with ATSU. Their support and encouragement of our students via Dreamline Pathways helps SMJUHSD students explore the wonderful opportunities in the healthcare industry. The hands-on activities our students experience during their field trip to ATSU offer insight and encouragement in a unique way. We appreciate ATSU for providing these opportunities,” said Paul R. Robinson, PhD, director, career technical education, SMJUHSD.
“We are proud to support this initiative that opens doors for young minds, especially those from underrepresented communities, to explore the exciting and diverse opportunities in healthcare. By sparking curiosity and nurturing talent early, we hope to inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders and innovators,” said Nelson Medina, Santa Maria district manager, Driscoll’s, Inc.
ATSU-CHC Dean Eric L. Sauers, PhD, ’97, added, “Sponsorship support for our Dreamline Pathways program is critical to delivering this exciting community engagement initiative that is part of our broader efforts to build awareness about opportunities to pursue careers in healthcare right here on the Central Coast. We are committed to helping create higher education pathways to grow the healthcare workforce here in our community, and the Dreamline Pathways program helps introduce local students to possibilities and inspire them to consider a rewarding career in healthcare.”
ATSU thanks Driscoll’s, Inc. and AgWest Farm Credit for their generous support of the Dreamline Pathways program.
Committed to expanding and continuing these events on a regular basis to further inspire future healthcare providers on the Central Coast, ATSU welcomes individuals and organizations interested in partnership to contact Karen DeCarlo, director of development, at kdecarlo@atsu.edu, or visit giving.atsu.edu.
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