The University of Maryland Eastern Shore, a historically Black educational institution in Princess Anne, has signed an agreement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services to support students pursuing careers in public health.
The new agreement opens the door for UMES to join the federal Pathways to Public Service Program facilitated by the assistant secretary for technology policy and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. The program aims to develop a diverse pipeline of students to become the next generation of public servants in health and human services by providing paid internships and entry-level employment opportunities.
As part of the program, UMES students can attend virtual fairs and professional development workshops that will introduce them to careers through several federal agencies and teach them about the federal hiring process. Additionally, the Department of Health and Human Services will establish an on-campus ambassador program to help recruit students to the new initiative. UMES plans to select three student ambassadors, who will receive training to operate on behalf of the federal program.
“The partnership is a great opportunity for students, especially those who are STEM majors, to acquire skills, knowledge, and experience in their field of studies,” said Theresa Queenan, director of the Career & Professional Job Development Center at UMES. “It is rewarding to know our students will graduate with hands-on experience and exposure to the workforce.”
