STORY

Anschutz faculty, high school educators talk collaboration at annual meeting

////
Robert Winn

Robert Winn

The Anschutz Medical Campus recently hosted teachers from Aurora’s Hinkley High School for their annual before-school, team-building meeting. Presenters gave teachers a better idea of what Anschutz has to offer their students after graduating high school.

On hand to speak with the teachers was the staff of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at Anschutz Medical Campus. The first item that was talked about was the relatively new BA/BS – MD program.

The program is run by Charles Ferguson, Ph.D., and is in its third year this fall. The program is designed to assemble eight to 10 outstanding students from diverse backgrounds who are committed to serving the health care needs of Colorado. The eight-year program leads to a doctorate. The students must maintain a 3.5 grade point average as well as receive no lower than a B in any class.

Also speaking to the teachers was John L. Barry, superintendent of Aurora Public Schools.

“Everyone needs help at some point – please do not hesitate to ask,” Barry said. “Higher education, not only at Anschutz Medical Campus, wants students that are prepared and it is our job to prepare them accordingly.”

In the afternoon, Robert Winn, M.D., an associate professor in pulmonary sciences, spoke to the teachers about the difference they make to their students.

“Students reflect the attitude of their teachers,” he said. “I am happy you guys are here. You are making a difference in your student’s lives already.”

Winn concluded his speech by saying, “We are the agents of change.”

The day ended with a tour of the new Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, in which teachers were given the opportunity to learn how to enhance not only their students’ minds but their physical well-being.

Said Raul Cardenas, associate vice chancellor for student affairs, “As a community of educators, we know that preparation is a vital key to success in life’s endeavors. Students who prepare to pursue higher education are more likely to accomplish their goals. You are on the front lines and best-positioned to ensure the preparation is complete and meaningful to the next generation of college-bound students.”

The University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus will be working with local area high schools in the next few weeks to strengthen ties. Green Mountain High School in Jefferson County has teachers on the downtown campus this week.