Publication Date
10-1-2023
Journal
Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes
DOI
10.1097/QAI.0000000000003253
PMID
37707853
PMCID
PMC10584360
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
10-1-2024
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
Humans, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Texas, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, HIV Infections, HIV-1, HIV Seropositivity
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Texas Developmental Center for AIDS Research (D-CFAR) diversity program, termed the CFAR Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Pathway Initiative (CDEIPI), was created in 2021 to engage high school students and graduate students from Underrepresented Minorities/Black, Indigenous, and People of Color populations.
SETTING: The Texas D-CFAR CDEIPI has partnered with 2 Texas high schools with predominantly economically disadvantaged and minority student populations-Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions in Houston, TX, and the South Texas Independent School District Medical Professions High School in Olmito, TX in the Rio Grande Valley.
METHODS: A total of 370 high school student learners at both partner schools participated in presentations of research and career paths related to HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 during the 2021-2022 academic year. Afterward, learners completed anonymous surveys to share their self-reported interest in research degrees and careers.
RESULTS: Learners reported increased knowledge of related science content and interest in research careers, including HIV-1 research, after each of the sessions.
CONCLUSIONS: The programming has been of interest to student learners, and future additions intend to build upon the Texas D-CFAR CDEIPI.