LSU Health Shreveport, Grambling sign MOU establishing Guaranteed Interview Program
Agreement creates seamless pathway for underrepresented minorities pursuing careers in medical science
A Memorandum of Understanding establishing a Guaranteed Interview Program between LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine and Grambling State University was signed in the Black and Gold Room in the Favrot Student Union at Grambling State University at 11 a.m. on Thursday.
The MOU represents the desire of both parties to increase the number of African American and Hispanic students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Louisiana who apply to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The goal is for these students to subsequently be accepted for admission and graduate from medical school.
“The mission of Grambling State University has always been to create opportunities that facilitate scholarly advancement,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, Jr. “The MOU with LSU Health Shreveport creates a seamless pathway for our students to pursue advanced degrees in the medical sciences.”
The Guaranteed Interview Program attests that GSU students who meet specified criteria included in the MOU will be invited to interview with the Admissions Committee of the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The MOU is effective July 1, 2021 and shall remain in effect until terminated by either Party.
“This landmark agreement provides LSU Health Shreveport an opportunity to propel our message that every student belongs to our learning communities, and it further helps us increase the percentage of African American and Hispanic students who apply, matriculate, and ultimately graduate from our institution”, LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor Dr. G.E. Ghali said.
Those signing the agreement were: Ghali, DDS, MD, Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, JD, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, David Lewis, MD, and Chair of Admission for the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, Shane Barton, MD
Additional university representatives in attendance included: Associate Dean for Student and Diversity Affairs, Debbie Chandler, MD, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Diversity Affairs, Toni Thibeaux, Ph.D., Assistant Dean of Admissions, Wanda Thomas, MD, and Consultant to LSU Health Shreveport, Markey Pierre, DBA. Representing Grambling State University are Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Connie Walton, Ph.D. and Head of Biology, Dagne Hill, Ph.D.