Inspiring Future Young Healthcare Leaders

By Anastazia Hartman | May 23

Last weekend, a group of Department of Pathology members gathered alongside other Michigan Medicine departments to inspire the nextA student participating in Youth Summit at the Big House generation of healthcare leaders. The third annual Youth Summit at the Big House is a day-long event that provides middle school students from across Southeastern Michigan the opportunity to learn about health sciences and the diverse nature of the Michigan Medicine healthcare system.

Leading our departmental effort was Karen Barron, Allied Health Education Program Manager. Barron organized and led multiple hands-on simulations that showcase the vast array of work completed in our department and field of pathology. At the pathology station, students learned about urinalysis, phlebotomy, and tried out microscopy. "Youth Summit is rewarding because of the opportunity to empower students," said Barron. "After I talk them through performing venipuncture on the mannequin, I ask if they would like to try it on a real patient, and they often say “Yes, I think I would like to try that!”

Alongside Barron and other volunteers was, Dr. Kamran Mirza, Director of the Division of Education. "Participating in this youth summit was a transformative experience. Witnessing the curiosity and enthusiasm of young minds as they explored the possibilities of a future in medicine reminded me of the importance of representation and mentorship", said Mirza. "This event not only provided hands-on experiences and valuable resources but also fostered personal connections that can spark a lifelong passion for the health sciences. Seeing the potential in each student reaffirmed my commitment to nurturing the next generation of diverse medical professionals."

Youth Summit Volunteers

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Thank you to our volunteers who made this year's Youth Summit a success!

Karen Barron, Allied Health Education Manager

Dr. Kamran Mirza, Pathologist

Dr. David Gordon, Pathologist

Dr. Riccardo Valdez, Pathologist

Alexis Snyder, Pathologist Assistant

Cassidy Woods, Medical Technologist 

Trisha Franklin, Medical Technologist

Efran Rastgoo, Medical Technologist

Carlton Mamo, Administrative Intern

Anastazia Hartman, Communications