The Schmieding Foundation, Inc., gifted $500,000 to Springdale’s Pathway Academy, which will be renamed the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Schmieding Foundation Pathways Academy of Springdale in recognition of the nonprofit’s continued support for UAMS.
The Pathways Academy program is a statewide initiative managed by the UAMS Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DDEI) that works to prepare low-income K-12 students for educational and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and healthcare (STEM-H) disciplines.
“We are excited to partner with UAMS to help provide students in Springdale the necessary resources to prepare them for careers in STEM-H” said Lance Taylor, president of Schmieding Foundation, Inc. “Through this program, we will not only increase education opportunities in the state, but we will also help grow the workforce to transform Arkansas into a regional healthcare leader.”
The goal of the program is to diversify the healthcare workforce in Arkansas, advancing a strategic objective outlined in Vision 2029 — UAMS’ plan to deliver dramatic and lasting health and healthcare improvements to make Arkansas the healthiest state in the region through its synergies of education, clinical care, and research. In addition to Springdale, there are Pathway Academies in Little Rock, Pine Bluff, Hot Springs, and Jonesboro.
Beyond STEMH programming, the UAMS Schmieding Foundation Pathways Academy curriculum will also incorporate concepts related to nutrition, mental health, community service, and other life skills. Students will also participate in experiential site visits, including trips to the academy, to learn firsthand about the array of STEMH careers available to them.