Michigan State University College of Human Medicine student Anita Arthur is a recipient of the 2017 American Medical Association Foundation’s Excellence in Medicine Minority Scholars Award. The awards program recognizes physicians who exemplify the highest values of volunteerism, community engagement, leadership and dedication to the care of underserved populations.
Arthur is a second-year medical student. She graduated from Oberlin College with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry in 2006 and obtained her Master of Public Health degree in epidemiology from Emory University in 2009. Prior to enrolling in medical school, Arthur was a high school chemistry teacher, a surveillance epidemiologist at the Florida Department of Health and an epidemiologist at the Michigan Department of Community Health. She intends to treat patients and practice public health in an underserved area.
The Minority Scholars Award program not only encourages diversity in medicine and alleviates debt, but also acknowledges the commitment to the elimination of healthcare disparities, outstanding academic achievements, leadership activities and community involvement.