New initiative aims to open up opportunities for students of color

Mayo Clinic and the Rochester NAACP are launching a new initiative to help Black and underrepresented students find “pathways to success in education and employment,” the organizations announced Monday.

The “RISE for Youth” program is part of Mayo’s $100 million commitment to eliminate racism and advance equity and inclusion.

Minnesota currently ranks second worst in the U.S. for racial equality, according to 2017 study by the publication 24/7 Wall St. Minnesota also has the second highest Black unemployment rate in the country.

"All young people have potential, but not all of them ― particularly Black and underrepresented students ― have the opportunity to realize it," said Anjali Bhagra, medical director of Mayo’s Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. "The RISE for Youth program will provide these students with critical educational and leadership skills, and training and long-term mentoring, for successful careers in health care, science and beyond."

The four-week summer program will blend coursework with hands-on experiences for two cohorts of students, according to a news release; “RISE Up” will target postsecondary students, while “RISE High” will target high school juniors and seniors.

To kick things off, the organizations have designated November as “Empower Month.” The calendar will feature a series of virtual events to shed light on existing disparities and promote the RISE for Youth program.

Applications for the program will be accepted from Nov. 15 through Feb. 1.

"As participants complete the program, they in turn become leaders and changemakers who will further reduce racial disparities and break down barriers for those that follow," said Walé Elegbede, president of the Rochester branch of the NAACP. "Our goal is to expand this program to other communities and states, so that racial equity in education and employment truly becomes a reality.”

More information about the RISE for Youth program can be found here.

Cover photo: Walé Elegbede / Submitted