NEVADA: INBRE Tribal Academy of Health and Science Coordinator featured in Nevada Today
In 2021, Nevada INBRE’s Andrew Tobey created the Nevada INBRE Tribal Academy of Health and Science to support Native American high school or college students through their education and career development in biomedical and health science fields. Through this program, students receive access to internship opportunities, academic help from science professionals, financial education, emotional development, learning about work/life balance, discussions about imposter syndrome and much more. Students and mentors meet weekly, providing a more personal connection through the program.
According to Tobey, more participation from the Nevada Native population is needed within biomedical fields. Expanding one’s knowledge about tribal health is an important part of the program to help tribal communities with health disparities.
“Tribal communities are in desperate need of more researchers and health care professionals who are of the culture they are serving,” Tobey said. “Being a part of the community is the best way to understand how to help and improve it. The best outcomes in science and medicine come from individuals who are intellectually diverse through upbringing, background, ideals, perspectives and knowledge.”