TTUHSC Student Organization to Host Banquet to Promote Diversity

The Student National Medical Association (SNMA) will host the multicultural scholarship gala, “A Celebration of Cultures,” from 6:30 p.m. to midnight Nov. 11 at the LakeRidge Country Club, 89th St. and Vicksburg Ave. The event is designed to spotlight diversity on campus among students and faculty at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Medicine.

SNMA has been active in promoting diversity at the School of Medicine and in creating outreach programs in the Lubbock community. The organization hosts the event to show the importance of respect toward various cultures that are represented by TTUHSC students and faculty.

Cristina Maqueda-Welch, third-year medical student and president of the organization, said the event promises to showcase cultures from various nationalities.

“Ultimately, we aim to provide scholarships to incoming minority medical students who display a financial need,” Maqueda-Welch said. “However, this gala also helps create a cultural climate that welcomes diversity and promotes equity within the medical field.”

Last year’s event raised about $20,000 for scholarships. Steven L. Berk, M.D., TTUHSC vice president, provost and dean of the School of Medicine, said the awareness to diversity issues is important to the School of Medicine.

“The SNMA is made up of energetic students who are taking the lead in promoting cultural diversity and improving the learning environment on each campus,” Berk said.

The banquet is open to the community. Tickets are $30 for students and $100 for faculty and community members. There will be a fashion show from various cultures, food, dancing and silent and live auctions.

For more information email TexasTech@snma.org.

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