Last week, more than 400 students from the Edward M. Kennedy Academy for Health Careers joined Mass General Brigham leadership and Mayor Michelle Wu to celebrate the start of the academic year and the beginning of their healthcare career-connected education with a kickoff celebration at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center.
Joined by health care and education leads, students took part in the Mass General Brigham Simulation Lab and toured our community health vans while learning about EMK offerings.
"Thank you to everyone who had a hand in welcoming the next generation of students to EMK," said Mayor Wu. “We wouldn't be here without the vision and support of our partners, and together we are doing something incredible. For nearly three decades, this school has prepared Boston students for college and healthcare careers, and the updates announced today will multiply these opportunities for EMK students."
Empowered by a $37.8 million grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies to Boston Public Schools and in partnership with Mass General Brigham, EMK Academy will double in size, develop new health career pathways, college courses and work-based learning, and create a pipeline to careers across our health system.
Mass General Brigham Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel, Laura Peabody said, “Hospitals nationwide are facing serious labor shortages, especially for clinicians and providers of color. Every day, our dedicated healthcare workers are confronted with growing demands and challenges. But with these challenges come great opportunities. We know that, for you, this is just the beginning, so we pledge to be there to support you in any way we can throughout the next four years and beyond.”
Speaking to EMK students, Bloomberg Philanthropies Program Lead for Career and Technical Education (CTE) Jenny Kane said, “These are real careers, with long term potential to keep earning, learning and growing, while making positive contributions to the community around you. The possibilities are truly endless and it’s up to you how far you go. So grab this opportunity and take every chance you can to learn from your educators at EMK and professionals at Mass General Brigham. They are here for you to make sure you succeed.”