The Jackson Heart Study Training and Education Center (JHS TEC) at Tougaloo College plays a central role in developing the next generation of scientists, health professionals, and public health leaders. Unlike most population based studies funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the Jackson Heart Study includes a dedicated training component to expand educational pathways for students who are historically underrepresented in biomedical and epidemiological research. Since its establishment in 1997, the JHS TEC has served as a foundational pipeline for students interested in careers that address health disparities, cardiovascular disease, and community-based research.
A core function of the JHS TEC is to strengthen students’ academic preparation in science and mathematics. Through structured coursework, enrichment activities, and skill building workshops, the program ensures that participating high school and undergraduate students gain the academic confidence and competencies needed to succeed in STEM and health related fields. This academic foundation is paired with innovative programming that exposes students to real world research environments, allowing them to engage directly with scientific inquiry and public health practice.
Equally important is the center’s emphasis on mentorship and professional development. The JHS TEC connects students with researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals across more than 30 partner institutions nationwide. These partnerships provide summer research placements, hands on training, and long-term mentoring relationships that help students clarify their career goals and navigate the pathways to graduate school, medical school, and other professional programs. This sustained mentorship model has been a defining feature of the center’s success.
The JHS TEC also contributes to broader educational outreach by producing publications, informational materials, and community focused programming that raise awareness about cardiovascular health, epidemiology, and public health research. Short courses and workshops offered through the center help increase public health literacy in local communities while giving students opportunities to practice leadership and communication skills. These efforts reinforce the center’s mission to improve health outcomes not only through research, but also through education and community engagement.
For over 25 years, the JHS TEC has had a substantial impact. More than 300 students have participated in the scholars’ program, with 220 completing the program and moving into the workforce or advanced education. Alumni have entered medical and dental schools, earned MPH and nursing degrees, pursued graduate studies, and taken on roles in education and public health. Through its comprehensive approach—academic preparation, research exposure, mentorship, and community engagement—the JHS TEC at Tougaloo College continues to expand opportunities for African American students and strengthen the pipeline of professionals committed to advancing health equity.
Dr. Wendy B. White - wwhite@tougaloo.edu
Dr. Kisa K. Harris - kkharris1@tougaloo.edu
Ms. Amel Mohamed - aemohamed@tougaloo.edu
Ms. Beverly Kelly - bkelly@tougaloo.edu
Ms. Beverly Thomas- bcthomas@tougaloo.edu