The UCSF Fresno Sunnyside High School Doctors Academy (DA) will celebrate its sixth graduating class on Tuesday, May 20, 2008.
“The Doctors Academy class of 2008 is comprised of many amazing individuals who have much to be proud of, including completing multiple honors and Advanced Placement courses, participation in three DA summer programs and involvement in a variety of extra-curricular and leadership activities,” said Katherine A. Flores, MD, director of the UCSF Fresno Latino Center for Medical Education and Research, which sponsors the DA program. “I am very proud of these students; their dedication and hard work is a reflection of their intent to be successful healthcare professionals. I look forward to their return to the Valley to provide needed health care services in a culturally competent fashion.”
All Doctors Academy graduates will attend college in the fall. Nine of the 34 graduating students will attend California State University, Fresno; fourteen will attend University of California campuses; seven will attend private colleges; and four will attend community colleges. Five graduates will be awarded the UCSF School of Medicine Merit Award for their academic achievement, commitment in the program, and continued interest in a career in medicine.
Graduate Event Details:
When: Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Where: Sunnyside High School 1019 S. Peach Avenue (corner of Peach & Kings Canyon) Performing Arts Theater
Time: 6.00 pm – 7:30 p.m.
Who: 450 people, including family members, friends, and graduates along with guests from partner institutions Fresno Unified School District, Fresno County Office of Education, UC San Francisco Fresno Medical Education Program and California State University, Fresno
Background: The UCSF Fresno Latino Center for Medical Education and Research, in partnership with Fresno Unified School District and Fresno County Office of Education, started the Sunnyside High School Doctors Academy in 1999 as a pilot program to encourage disadvantaged students to focus on careers in health and medicine. The program has grown in popularity and scope over the past seven years. A Junior Doctors Academy Program was established in 2000 to encourage and support middle school students. The Doctors Academy Program currently has 147 students enrolled. The UCSF Fresno Latino Center continues to support and work closely with Fresno Unified School District to sustain this program at Sunnyside High School and provide health career opportunities for qualifying students.
For more information about the Doctors Academy graduation event, please contact Education Director Bertha Dominguez at (559) 241-7670.
