Kansas City University (KCU) and Florida A&M University (FAMU), a historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Tallahassee, Florida signed a partnership agreement that will enable FAMU students interested in health sciences careers gain admission to KCU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Dental Medicine or College of Biosciences.
“We look forward to building this partnership with FAMU,” said Edward R. O’Connor, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic, research and student affairs at KCU. “Our institutions value excellence, equity and empathy and the shared vision of making sure physicians of the future are diverse, culturally competent and have the skills to advocate for and represent the communities they will serve.”
“Research suggests that patients often want to be cared for by providers or practitioners that look like them because they feel understood and can identify with some of their health issues,” said Dr. Fran Scott, director of FAMU’S Premedical Office. “This partnership not only creates an opportunity for students to become doctors and dentists; it creates an opportunity down the line for patients, that look like the students of color”.
Under the terms of the agreement, FAMU students who meet certain GPA requirements, complete specific course work, engage in community service and meet all matriculation standards will be eligible to apply to the KCU program of choice with a recommendation from the FAMU pre-med or pre-dental advisor. The MCAT or DAT will not be required.
On March 3, KCU hosted FAMU representatives for a tour of KCU’s Kansas City campus, where they met with students prior to a formal signing ceremony.
“FAMU and KCU are two universities that see value in each other and we are coming together in a formal process to make sure our students have opportunity,” said Allyson Watson, Ph.D., provost and vice president for division of academic affairs at FAMU. “After experiencing all KCU has to offer I wholeheartedly believe KCU is a wonderful place for our students to further their education.”
