The UC Riverside School of Medicine has been named a recipient of the Insight Into Diversity magazine 2024 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award, which honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, or STEM. 

UCR received the award for the third year in a row and will be featured alongside 82 other recipients in the September 2024 issue of Insight Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The winners were selected based on efforts to inspire and encourage young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research, and successful programs and initiatives.

The medical school was recognized by the magazine for its California Medicine Scholars Program, or CMSP, a new pathway program that supports students from community college to medical school. CMSP aims to diversify the primary care physician workforce and respond to looming shortages in the health workforce. CMSP is a key part of the state’s strategy to close a projected shortfall of more than 4,000 primary care physicians by 2030, and address widening disparities in access to care in rural and underserved communities.

“This recognition highlights the commitment UC Riverside’s School of Medicine has made to serve its local community by breaking down barriers and creating opportunities to train excellent doctors,” said Dr. Denise Martinez, associate dean of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the medical school. “This award also underscores how fostering inclusivity and supporting a diversity of perspectives can shape the future of healthcare. Together, we are not only paving the way for aspiring physicians, but also championing a more equitable approach to medicine to transform healthcare for all.”

Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of Insight Into Diversity magazine, acknowledged that STEM programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students.

“We want to honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in STEM,” Pearlstein said. “We are proud to honor these programs as role models to other institutions of higher education and beyond.”