In a historic achievement, Tougaloo College secures $8 million NIH grant to establish the Tougaloo College Biomedical Research & Training Center. This monumental grant was spearheaded by Dr. Wendy Brown White, an alumna of Mississippi Valley State University and a proud graduate of Greenville High School in Greenville, Mississippi. Dr. White led the grant writing efforts and will currently serves as the Director and Principal Investigator for the Undergraduate Training and Education Center of the Jackson Heart Study at Tougaloo College.
The grant is part of the NIH Research Facilities Construction Grants program and aims to bolster the college’s capacity for biomedical research and training. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a vital hub for research in biomedical sciences, offering essential resources and opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers. By providing hands-on training and access to cutting-edge technology, the center will play a crucial role in fostering innovation and growth in biomedical sciences, especially for historically under-served populations.
“This grant is an immense opportunity for Tougaloo College and Black students pursuing careers in the biomedical field,” said Dr. White. “This state-of-the-art center will not only enhance the research capabilities of our institution but also serve as a crucial resource for training the next generation of biomedical scientists and health professionals. This facility will open doors to new partnerships, research collaborations, and opportunities for Tougaloo College.”
The project stands as a symbol of the Tougaloo’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and research advancement. Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), a longtime supporter of HBCUs and Black business initiatives, celebrated the accomplishment, stating, “This investment not only advances biomedical research but also creates invaluable educational and professional opportunities for students in our district. It’s a proud moment for Tougaloo College and a testament to their commitment to academic excellence and research.”
As one of the few HBCUs to receive such substantial support from the NIH, Tougaloo College’s achievement highlights the critical role HBCUs play in preparing Black students for success in competitive fields like biomedical sciences. In line with Tougaloo’s mission to educate future leaders, the Biomedical Research & Training Center will offer hands-on opportunities for students to engage in research that can improve the health and well-being of communities across the country.
This investment comes at a pivotal time, especially for Black-owned businesses and HBCUs in Mississippi, as these institutions continue to push boundaries and create long-lasting impacts on economic development, health, and educational access. This $8 million grant is not only an investment in research but also in the empowerment of Black students who will go on to contribute to the economic and academic growth of the state and beyond.
Dr. White’s leadership in securing this grant is a testament to the power of education, persistence, and community investment. Her success demonstrates how Black professionals, whether in academia or business, can serve as catalysts for transformative change. By using her expertise to lead initiatives like this, Dr. White continues to pave the way for future generations of Black scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
The Tougaloo College Biomedical Research & Training Center will become a cornerstone of innovation and educational excellence, further cementing the college’s place as a leader in advancing biomedical research among HBCUs. With leaders like Dr. White at the helm, the future looks promising for Tougaloo’s students and the broader community.
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