“I want to emphasize that diversity is important in some very practical ways as well. This is especially true in the health care field…

“Studies show that minorities are more likely to receive lower quality health care than other groups, while also facing higher mortality rates for cancer, diabetes, heart disease and other afflictions…

“Studies also show that a diverse workforce in the health care industry can result in many positive benefits. That includes improved communication, better satisfaction from patients, better access – and other factors that lead to healthier communities…

“So, that’s where the Sudie M. Smith Foundation comes in. The health care industry continues to grow, and as it does, we also need to grow the pipeline of diverse talent. The foundation’s scholarship winners are well poised to become the leaders of tomorrow. they can play a significant part in making sure people of all backgrounds have quality health care. They can help close the disparities that we’ve dealt with for too long. And, they can build connections with patients that will truly be game changers in their lives…

“So, let’s continue to support the Sudie M. Smith Foundation.”

-Chancellor Gary S. May, UC Davis