Why Meharry Medical College's new School of Global Health will improve people's lives

By Jonathan Low

In a groundbreaking move that aligns with its rich history of pioneering education and promoting inclusivity, Meharry Medical College has recently unveiled plans to establish a School of Global Health.

This historic institution, based in Nashville, has been a trailblazer since its inception in 1876, when it emerged as the first medical school in the South dedicated to educating African Americans.

Now, as Meharry expands its academic footprint, the newly announced School of Global Health signals a significant leap towards addressing both national and global health challenges, with a focus on diversity and equity.

This is a history of Meharry Medical College

Meharry Medical College has long been a symbol of resilience and progress in the field of medical education. Founded as the Medical Department of Central Tennessee College, it served as a beacon of hope during a time when opportunities for African Americans in medicine were severely limited.

The decision to charter Meharry separately in 1915 solidified its commitment to fostering excellence in healthcare education for underrepresented communities.

Over the years, Meharry has carried on a legacy of excellence and evolved into a multifaceted institution, encompassing a medical school, dental school, graduate school, and an applied computational sciences school.

Its commitment to producing highly skilled physicians, dentists, researchers, and health policy experts has consistently placed Meharry at the forefront of academic achievement.

What Meharry’s School of Global Health will do

The recent announcement of the School of Global Health marks a significant step forward for Meharry, expanding its reach beyond national borders to address pressing global health issues. This move is not just about creating a new academic entity; it reflects Meharry’s dedication to making a meaningful impact on a global scale.

The decision made by President Dr. James Hildreth to appoint Dr. Daniel Dawes as the founding dean of the School of Global Health is a testament to Meharry’s commitment to excellence.

Dr. Dawes, a seasoned expert in health policy and a passionate advocate for health equity, brings a wealth of experience to this new role. Having a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) take the lead in global health education adds a crucial perspective that has often been underrepresented in this field.

The author of “The Political Determinants of Health” and the burgeoning team of the new School of Global Health have proven they are well equipped to not only exceed expectations, but also set a new bar in the field of public health.

“For nearly 150 years, Meharry has led the charge for the advancement of health equity all across this country. With the establishment of our new School of Global Health, we intend to continue in that same spirit and show the world that a more equitable future is possible, and that it all starts right here in Nashville, Tennessee,” Dawes said.

HBCUs have a unique history of producing graduates who understand the complex intersection of race, social determinants of health, and systemic disparities.

By placing Meharry at the forefront of global health education, the School of Global Health has the potential to influence policies, research, and interventions with a lens that is both inclusive and culturally competent.

Meharry Medical College’s announcement of the School of Global Health is not just a milestone for the institution but a significant development for the field of global health education as a whole.

As an HBCU, Meharry brings a legacy of resilience, inclusivity, and excellence to the forefront of global health initiatives. This new venture holds the promise of producing leaders who will contribute to a more equitable and healthier world for all.