Founded in 2017 through the generous support of a visionary donor, the Health Equity Leadership Academy proudly names its scholars the John Lewis Health Equity Leadership Scholars. This esteemed program also known as “The Academy”, is dedicated to empowering undergraduate students from challenging backgrounds—whether they are first-generation college students, hail from rural environments, or face socially or culturally demanding contexts—to pursue advanced degrees in the health professions.
Since its inception, The Academy has been a beacon of opportunity and growth. Our scholars benefit from a robust curriculum of professional development, exclusive interactions with healthcare C-suite executives, and meaningful community service engagements. These experiences are designed to cultivate the skills, knowledge, and leadership qualities necessary to drive forward the quest for health equity.
Under the expert guidance of Dr. Geoffrey Silvera and Mrs. Brittney Stokes, The Academy has flourished as a nurturing and dynamic environment. Here, aspiring health professionals find not just an educational program, but a supportive home where they can cultivate their potential and prepare to become future leaders in health equity.
Join us as we continue to inspire and support the next generation of health professionals dedicated to making a difference in the world.
The Health Equity Leadership Academy— where passion meets purpose, and health equity finds its next generation of leaders.
Applications for 2025 will open in the Spring Semester.
Diverse Topics
Every year, The UAB HSA Academy features activities led by experts on topics such as:
- Applying to Graduate School
- Thriving in Graduate School
- Professional Development Tips & Techniques
- Leadership Development
- Résumé Building; LinkedIn
- Leadership's Role in Reducing Health Disparities
Proven Success
The UAB HSA Academy is housed in the UAB Department of Health Services Administration - home of the #1 health care management graduate program in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings.
Since inception, The Academy has graduated 32 students. Our students have gone on to graduate school and careers in a variety of areas.
"I liked the community tour, meeting the directors of the Master's program, and learning about the anatomy of a graduate school application. What I liked most about The Academy was all the knowledge and advice along with the networking."
No Charge to Attend
There is no cost for you to join this transformational experience. The ten-week Fall experience requires student attendance on Fridays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the School of Health Professions Building (SHPB).
Application Deadline: April 26, 2024
The UAB HSA Academy is open to any outstanding sophomore or junior students. Preference is given to students who identify with underrepresented groups, are first-generation, or are from rural areas, who wish to apply and enter graduate programs in health care leadership, public health, health care quality and safety, health informatics, and other similar fields.
Apply Today
Interact with Experts
Every year, The UAB HSA Academy introduces students to health care industry leaders who provide insights and & guidance in an intimate setting.
In the past, our attendees have learned from:
- Chief Executive Officers
- Chief Diversity Officers
- Health Care Organization Leaders
- Graduate Program Students and Professors
- Graduate Program Advisors and Directors
- Academy Alumni
Academy News
Contact For Questions
To learn more about The UAB HSA Academy, email us at