Student National Medical Association
Student National Medical Association, Charleston Division
Overview:
The West Virginia University School of Medicine Charleston Chapter of the Student National Medical Association (WVU SoM SNMA at Charleston) is devoted to aiding current and prospective underrepresented minority medical students throughout their medical journey. We aim to tackle the necessities of underserved communities and enhance the count of clinically proficient, culturally aware, and socially conscious upcoming physicians.
Brought to Charleston, WV by our own student members, SNMA is here to meet the social and health-related needs of the local communities. Furthermore, SNMA is committed to ensuring that medical education and services are attuned to the cultural sensitivities of diverse populations.
As a nationwide association, SNMA chapters are situated at allopathic and osteopathic medical schools across the nation, as well as some colleges, carrying out our programs and activities at the local level.
Our Goals:
The goals of WVU SoM SNMA at Charleston are:
- To function as a reliable and precise source of information pertaining to minority issues in the realm of medical education.
- To promote and nurture the growth of minority faculty, aiming to enhance the representation of minority mentors and biomedical researchers in academic health centers.
To assess and develop the essential measures to eliminate practices in health profession education that undermine the objective of delivering quality education to minorities and women.
Student Activities:
Through WVU SoM SNMA at Charleston, medical students, residents, and locals participate in various events, ranging from community service to fundraisers and social gatherings. For example, we’ve raised funds through multiple events, including clothing line sales, DIY badge topper sales, baked goods sales, and Valentine's Day card sales. Additionally, we have established long-lasting partnerships with local institutions to create opportunities for community involvement. One of our favorite recurring volunteer opportunities is our bi-monthly meal preparation event at a local women's shelter, Sojourner’s Women and Family Shelter. We visit this local shelter twice a month, where we serve in the kitchen by preparing meals and serving them to its members. Additionally, we assist in maintaining the kitchen and storage rooms and contribute by developing new recipes.
Furthermore, we are currently organizing a recurring volunteering opportunity at a local free clinic, along with a medical profession mentorship program at a local high school. We also actively engage in social activities with members of the WVU Charleston Campus faculty and medical students to foster diverse interpersonal relationships and create an inclusive environment for all, such as Black History Month events.
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