SHRP’s Taylor recognized for diversity efforts

Diversity isn't part of Dr. Juanyce Taylor's title as assistant dean for research and innovation and chair of the Department of Health Services at the University of Mississippi Medical Center's School of Health Related Professions.

"It's part of my fabric," she said. "It's who I am."

Taylor's work incorporating diversity into the courses she teaches and promoting it through programs such as the Mississippi Rural Allied Health Professionals Scholarship Program and the Health Equity Leadership Initiative led to her nomination for the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning 2016 Diversity Award for Excellence.

She and 10 other nominees, representing each of the state's IHL campuses as well as Mississippi State University's Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine and UMMC, were honored Feb. 18 by the state College Board.

The annual award recognizes positive contributions to campuses and the state, including advancing diversity, community outreach and achievements that benefit Mississippians, said Clotee Lewis, IHL coordinator of public affairs. Presented during Black History Month, the honor highlights faculty accomplishments in diversity.

"It's a prestigious award," Lewis said, "and one we look forward to each year."

Among this year's nominees, Dr. Shirley Hanshaw, associate professor of English at Mississippi State University, received the Diversity Educator Award.

The Mississippi Rural Allied Health Professionals Scholarship Program supports students from rural communities pursuing health professions, while the Health Equity Leadership Initiative encourages men of color ages 17 to 25 to pursue leadership roles in health-related fields.

"These programs symbolize what we say we stand for at UMMC," Taylor said.

Taylor secured funding from the Kellogg Foundation to launch the Health Equity Leadership Initiative, now in its third year. She also helped obtain support from the Hearin Foundation for the rural scholarship program.

Like similar programs for medical and dental students, the SHRP initiative often leads graduates to return to rural areas, improving access to care across the state, said Dr. Jessica Bailey, dean of the School of Health Related Professions.

Inclusion strengthens both education and research, Taylor said.

"Diversity is about bringing together different attitudes, perspectives, skills and fresh ideas. It's what makes us unique. When we pursue diversity, we are expanding opportunities, inspiring minds and empowering communities."

Outreach to rural students and students of color is essential for UMMC to fulfill its mission as the state's only academic medical center, she said.

Bailey said Taylor's efforts reflect a strong commitment to both the institution and the state.

"Dr. Taylor is committed to providing opportunities for students who might not otherwise imagine themselves in a health care profession or attending an academic health sciences center," Bailey said. "She has the vision to help build a workforce that better represents Mississippi."