The Ivy Center for Education celebrated the completion of its Club Scrub 2: Future Medical Professionals Project, a six-month initiative designed to introduce third- through sixth-grade students to the world of health care careers.
Hosted in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Jefferson County, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences South Central, First Methodist Church and a grant from Synergy Forum Inc., this project provided young students with monthly, hands-on workshops that explored a variety of health care professions.
The Club Scrub 2 ceremony began with prayer by Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Tavante Calhoun.
A welcome was given by Mattie Collins, president and executive director of the Ivy Center, followed by words of encouragement from Danielle Harris, education coordinator for UAMS South Central Regional Campus.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The students learned about the human body and how to engage with real-world medical concepts. They were also encouraged to think about their futures and the many opportunities available within the health care field, according to a news release.
The workshops were held at the Community Center of the Boys and Girls Club, under the leadership of Jamie Gordon. Harris guided students through lessons and activities, all aimed at building curiosity, confidence and career awareness at an early age.
Students participated in interactive sessions that introduced them to various roles within health care, sparking their interests and helping them envision themselves as future medical professionals.
The program concluded with a White and Green Jacket Ceremony on March 12 at First Methodist Church. During the ceremony, students were recognized for their commitment, growth and participation in the Club Scrub 2 project.
The presentation of the jackets symbolized their dedication and marked a milestone in their journey as future leaders in health care. Helping with the ceremony were Calhoun, Harris, Collins and members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., the Alpha Rho Chapter at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
“Projects like Club Scrub 2 play a vital role in planting seeds of purpose, exposing young minds to career pathways, and strengthening the future of our community,” Harris said. “With continued support and encouragement, these young scholars are well on their way to becoming the next generation of health care professionals.”
Club Scrub 2 program participants include:
• Ava Alexander, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Avery Taggart;
• Kurage Belcher, daughter of Reggie Belcher and Lakiva Mackrell;
• Kynedi Bennett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Bennett;
• Addyson Cantrell, daughter of Ricky Cantrell and Synedra Gibson;
• Zealous Clark, son of Jabez Clark and Amanda Coffman;
• Braden Evans, son of Mr. and Mrs. Branigan Evans;
• Caiden Evans, son of Mr. and Mrs. Branigan Evans;
• Caden Maxwell, son of Crystal Campbell;
• Cor’Tajah Richardson, daughter of Cortez Richardson and LaTrenda Harris;
• Skylar Taylor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Shane Taylor;
• Jaiden Williams, daughter of Diamas Williams and Asia Callaway;
• Jayceon Goins, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Goins;
• Journee Goins, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Goins;
• Channing Jackson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Javits Jackson;
• Ava Taggart, daughter of Don Taggart and Shaneka Hamilton; and
• Janessa Wilson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Wilson.
“In celebrating their accomplishments, the community is reminded that when it invests in its youth, it invests in a brighter and healthier future for all. The journey has just begun and the possibilities are limitless,” according to the release.
The project also received a donation from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and First Sisters Outreach. Helping with the ceremony and serving refreshments afterwards were members of the Alpha Rho Chapter at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
“We’re growing our own medical professionals for Pine Bluff and Jefferson County,” Collins said.
Details: Mattie Collins at mattie1908@gmail.com.