UAMS Pathways Academy

💰 Level Up Your Money, Level Up Your Future! 💰

Our HCOP Summer Bridge Scholars at Southern Arkansas University–Magnolia took an important step toward financial independence during an engaging Financial Literacy Workshop facilitated by Kimberly Marshall, Consultant with Unified CDC, Inc.

During Session I: "Level Up Your Money: Life After High School," scholars explored essential financial skills every recent graduate needs, including budgeting, banking, credit, and making smart financial decisions.

In Session II: "The Next Level: Earning, Saving & Building Wealth," students expanded their knowledge by learning strategies for earning income, saving intentionally, investing wisely, and building long-term financial security.

Financial literacy is a critical component of success in college and beyond. We are grateful to Kimberly Marshall and Unified CDC, Inc. for equipping our scholars with practical tools and knowledge that will empower them to make informed financial decisions throughout their educational and professional journeys.

🩺✨ Exploring the Future of Healthcare! ✨🩺

Our 2026 HCOP Summer Bridge Academy scholars had an incredible day at UAMS exploring healthcare careers through interactive presentations, hands-on activities, and tours of the College of Pharmacy, NICU, and Department of Neuroscience.
A special thank you to Mr. Wille Hicks (College of Pharmacy), Dr. Billy Thomas (NICU), Dr. Erica Malone (Department of Neuroscience), and Dr. Dechantria D. Wallace, who led an engaging Time Management Workshop, for investing in and inspiring our future healthcare professionals.

💙 Experiences like these help our scholars envision the limitless possibilities within healthcare. The future is bright!

🎓🥼 Celebrating the HCOP White Coat & Reaffirmation Ceremony! 🥼🎓

Yesterday, we proudly celebrated the scholars of the HCOP 4-Week Summer Bridge Academy during our White Coat & Reaffirmation Ceremony at Southern Arkansas University.

The ceremony began with welcome remarks from Yolanda Carman, HCOP Program Manager, followed by institutional greetings from Dr. Shanea Nelson, Senior Director of Academic Pathways & Workforce Partnerships; Dr. Bruno Hicks, President of Southern Arkansas University; and Dr. Daniel McDermott, whose leadership and support continue to strengthen opportunities for future healthcare professionals.

Scholars were inspired by keynote speaker Dr. Jay Franks, M.D., Internal Medicine, before participating in the HCOP Reaffirmation Ceremony, which included a reflection on the meaning of the white coat, the Scholars Processional of Commitment, placement of HCOP stoles, an LED Commitment Lighting Moment, the HCOP Reaffirmation Pledge, and a collective commitment to professionalism, leadership, and service.

This meaningful milestone symbolizes our scholars’ dedication to academic excellence, compassionate care, and leadership as they begin their journey toward careers in healthcare.

Congratulations to our HCOP Scholars! We are proud of your commitment and look forward to the positive impact you will make as future healthcare professionals and leaders.

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🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: Lauryn Goodloe✨🎓

Congratulations to Lauryn Goodloe of Watson Chapel High School! 🌟 Lauryn is headed to Southern University and A&M College to major in Biology as she pursues her dream of becoming an OB/GYN and advancing research that improves the health and well-being of women of color.

💙 With her passion for advocacy, research, and compassionate care, Lauryn is poised to make a lasting impact on the future of women's health.

🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: Andreaja Sharp ✨🎓

Congratulations to Andreaja Sharp of Emerson High School! 🌟 Andreaja plans to attend South Arkansas College (SouthArk) to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). Her passion for helping others and dedication to healthcare are guiding her toward a rewarding future.

💙 With her compassionate spirit and commitment to serving others, Andreaja is prepared to make a positive impact in the lives of those she helps.

🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: Shamya Richardson✨🎓

Congratulations to Shamya Richardson of Camden Fairview High School! 🌟 Shamya is headed to Southern Arkansas University to pursue a degree in Nursing, inspired by a lifelong passion for helping others and providing compassionate care.

💙 With her heart for service and commitment to making others feel valued and supported, Shamya is well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.

🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: 🎓✨
Maliah Muse

Congratulations to Maliah Muse of El Dorado High School! 🌟 Maliah plans to attend Southern Arkansas University to major in Pre-Health before pursuing the Radiology Program at UAMS. Her passion for radiology and patient care is already paving the way for a promising future in healthcare.

💙 With her passion for patient care and commitment to excellence, Maliah is poised to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.

🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: Decoria Johnson ✨🎓

Congratulations to Decoria Johnson of Camden Fairview High School! 🌟 Decoria is headed to Southern Arkansas University to major in Exercise Science, driven by her passion for making a positive impact on others and helping people grow and thrive.

💙 Decoria's commitment to serving others is just the beginning of an inspiring journey.

🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: Makhia Madison✨🎓

Congratulations to Makhia Madison of Magnolia High School! 🌟 Makhia is headed to Arkansas State University to major in Psychology, driven by her passion for helping others and making a difference in the lives of those around her.

💙 The HCOP family is cheering her on as she takes the next step toward achieving her goals.

🎓✨ HCOP Senior Spotlight: Mateo Bartose ✨🎓

From Lee High School to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Mateo is pursuing a degree in Nursing with a passion for giving back and caring for others. 💙 We are proud of his accomplishments and excited to see all that he will achieve!