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Arkansas Colleges of Health Education Hosts ACHE M.A.P. Program to Foster Diversity in Healthcare for Second Year
Fort Smith, AR – June 16, 2024 – The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) hosted its second cohort for its Mentoring and Achievement Preparation (M.A.P.) Program. This innovative initiative is designed to educate, encourage, equip, and engage diverse students from underrepresented and underserved populations considering careers in occupational therapy or physical therapy.
In Spring 2023, ACHE’s College of Health Sciences Admissions Department, School of Occupational Therapy (ACHE OT), School of Physical Therapy (ACHE PT), and the Office of Diversity launched the M.A.P. program. The mission of this program is to make a positive difference in the lives of underserved populations and help reduce health disparities for everyone.
In June 2023, the ACHE M.A.P. welcomed its inaugural cohort for a three-day on-campus immersive experience. After completing the program, participants receive ongoing mentorship from faculty members and current students in the ACHE OT and/or ACHE PT programs. Additionally, the ACHE College of Health Sciences Admissions will regularly invite them to attend future admissions-related workshops and events. Dr. LaTisha Standokes, Executive Director of Admissions at ACHE College of Health Sciences, expressed her enthusiasm for the program: “The ACHE M.A.P. Program is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive healthcare environment. By providing these students with the tools and support they need, we are paving the way for a future where diversity is encouraged and celebrated.”
A part of the 2024 cohort was Miles College senior Abigail Boudreaux. The program's holistic and inclusive approach impressed Abigail, who shared, “The ACHE M.A.P. Program was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity…Being part of this outstanding program allowed me to learn extensively about ACHE’s School of Physical Therapy and its offerings for prospective students like myself. I was fortunate to receive mentorship from both a professor and a student, providing invaluable advice and guidance from now until I graduate from undergrad. The administration at ACHE took the time to personally get to know each of us and prepare us for our next steps after graduation. This experience is truly unique, and I am deeply grateful for it.”
Being part of this outstanding program allowed me to learn extensively about ACHE’s School of Physical Therapy and its offerings for prospective students like myself. I was fortunate to receive mentorship from both a professor and a student, providing invaluable advice and guidance from now until I graduate from undergrad.
Abigail Boudreaux
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For more information about the ACHE M.A.P. Program, please contact Dr. LaTisha Standokes at map@achehealth.edu.
The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, is dedicated to educating and training healthcare professionals with a focus on service to rural and underserved communities. ACHE strives to improve the overall health of the region and beyond by developing a new generation of healthcare providers committed to community service.
