Our Mission

Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent and socially conscious physicians.

SNMA chapters based at allopathic and osteopathic medical schools throughout the nation, and some colleges, implement our programs and activities locally. SNMA programs are designed to serve the health needs of underserved communities and communities of color. In addition, SNMA is dedicated both to ensuring that medical education and services are culturally sensitive to the needs of diverse populations and to increasing the number of African-American, Latino, and other students of color entering and completing medical school.

From the President

Greetings SNMA Family! It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2013 - 2014 administrative year of the SNMA. This year, we will commemorate FIFTY incredible years of pursuing our goal to "Diversify the Face of Medicine". The mission of the Student National Medical Association is to support current and future underrepresented minority medical students, to address the needs of the underserved community, and increase the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians. This awesome mission speaks to not only encouraging and supporting future minority physicians, but to also having an impact on our community right now. Standing on the cusp of this historical milestone, it is evident, more than ever, that our nation and world is changing rapidly – socially, politically, and economically. The ways in which we study medicine, connect with our patients and interact with our healthcare colleagues will have to adapt to keep pace with the changing environment. We will prepare for these changes by staying ever true to the mission of our organization.

Our programmatic theme for this year, "The Next E.R.A. of SNMA", focuses on Engagement of our membership and community, Reflection on our amazing history and continued Action in the areas we are known for – Academic Excellence, Community Service and Advocacy. As we move through the year, each level of the organization will participate in activities that will incorporate these three important words. We will work to engage a membership that is truly reflective of the diversity we see in our community we serve. We will remember our past and our purpose for existence while gathering a renewed sense of intention for the future. We will seek and develop innovative ways to better prepare the future physicians of tomorrow with the academic tools, cultural competency, and social awareness necessary to practice excellent medicine.

There are many ways you can join us this year and take part in our programmatic efforts. Reach out to your local or regional leadership for more information about upcoming programs and initiatives. Or consider joining a National Committees to assist with planning on the national level this year. Come join us April 16-20, 2014 in Washington, DC to celebrate our 50th Anniversary Annual Medical Education Conference with the theme of "Fifty Years, One Mission: Diversifying the Face of Medicine". This once in a lifetime experience will be a celebration for our current and alumni members. I look forward to working with all of the incredible leaders within this organization. It is the culmination of all of our efforts, great and small, that has brought us to this milestone and it is what will take us into the next ERA of SNMA!

Courtney M. Johnson

SNMA National President 2013-2014

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