On June 25th, HCA Healthcare’s South Atlantic Division announced that it had granted $650,000 to Savannah State University (SSU) to support a paid internship program for students pursuing a master’s degree in social work. This significant gift was part of HCA Healthcare’s broader commitment to investing $10 million over three years in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs).
HCA Healthcare has a longstanding history of collaborating with higher education institutions nationwide to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Among these partnerships are Tennessee State University, Florida A&M University, and Fisk University, all of which have been granted $1.5 million each as part of HCA’s ongoing efforts.
As a major player in the healthcare industry, HCA Healthcare operates 183 hospitals and over 2,300 care sites across 20 states and the United Kingdom. With a workforce of more than 283,000 employees, the organization is driven by a mission to ensure healthier tomorrows for patients. By using its size, innovative skills, and the hard work of its caregivers to keep improving patient care and changing the healthcare field.
Hugh C. Tappan, the President of HCA Healthcare’s South Atlantic Division expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are excited to partner with this nationally recognized Social Work program. To allow more students to explore social work, to partner with a nationally recognized program at a nationally recognized college, and to gain access to future colleagues, is all exciting!”
The generous grant has funded paid internships for two Master of Social Work cohorts over the next four years, helping students complete the 900 clinical hours required for their degree at Memorial Health University Medical Center, an HCA Healthcare affiliate. The program offered students job shadowing and mentorship opportunities through HCA Healthcare. It also included a stipend for a mentor who connected the hospital with Savannah State University.
Sheronda Phillips, a social work program student, reflected on her experience in the program, stating, “I have gained experience with all age groups as a result of my clinical rotations throughout the hospital. You are relied upon heavily and must be able to adapt and be flexible to the patient’s medical changes that can occur at any time. You also must be able to communicate with everyone, no matter if it’s the patient, their family members, nurses or doctors.”
Savannah State University, founded in 1890, is Georgia’s first public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and the first college in Savannah. The university welcomes over 3,000 students from Georgia and beyond. SSU’s Master of Social Work Program is accredited and helps students prepare for advanced social work careers.
Cynthia Robinson Alexander, J.D., interim president of SSU, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “At Savannah State University, we are deeply committed to fostering strong, impactful partnerships that enhance the educational experiences of our students and serve our community. Our collaboration with HCA Healthcare is a shining example of this commitment. This partnership between our esteemed social work program and the hospital allows our students to gain invaluable hands-on experience while contributing to the well-being of patients and their families. Together, we’re shaping a healthier, brighter future for our community.”
This partnership shows HCA Healthcare’s commitment to creating a diverse and skilled workforce, while also highlighting Savannah State University’s focus on giving students real-world community service opportunities.
