Signal Hill resident wins scholarship through Diverse Scholars Initiative

Signal Hill resident Francisco Hernandez is among nine Californians who have won scholarships from United Health Foundation’s Diverse Scholars Initiative to pursue careers in health care. 
Hernandez, who is a sophomore studying physiological science at Long Beach City College, hopes to one day become a physician. 
“With this scholarship, I will maximize my efforts so that I can help meet our nation’s urgent and growing need for equitable and excellent health care,” Hernandez said.  
United Health Foundation’s Diverse Scholars Initiative, through its partner organizations, is awarding a total of $1.2 million in scholarships for the upcoming academic year to more than 200 students from diverse, multicultural backgrounds, as part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to build a more diverse healthcare workforce.
The scholarships, averaging $5,000 per student, focus on African-American, American-Indian, Asian-American and Latino and Hispanic students who plan to pursue careers in health care. The Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities will administer Hernandez’s scholarship.
Since 2007, United Health Foundation has awarded nearly 800 scholarships benefiting students across the nation, committing more than $4 million to the initiative. 
“Research shows that when patients are treated by health professionals who share their language, culture and ethnicity, they are more likely to accept and receive medical treatment,” said Kate Rubin, president of United Health Foundation. “Through these scholarships, we are encouraging diverse, multicultural students to continue their education and become healthcare professionals who will help expand and enhance health care services, particularly in underserved communities. These outstanding scholars truly represent the rich diversity of our country.”
United Health Foundation hosted its third annual Diverse Scholars “Young Minds, Bright Futures” forum in Washington, D.C. in late June to recognize and celebrate the awardees and inspire them to work toward strengthening the nation’s health care system. 

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unitedhealthfoundation.org