Malcolm X College announced on March 10 that it will host its first Health Equity Summit, a two-day event aimed at addressing health inequities in Chicago. The summit is scheduled for March 18 and 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the college’s conference center located at 1900 W. Jackson Boulevard. The event is free and open to the public with registration.
The summit seeks to bring together healthcare leaders, educators, students, advocates, and community members to discuss disparities in health outcomes across the city. Organizers hope the gathering will foster collaboration and generate actionable solutions for long-term improvements in community health.
Dr. David Sanders, president of Malcolm X College, said, “Malcolm X College is proud to convene leaders, students, educators, and community members for our inaugural Health Equity Summit as we work together to confront the health disparities affecting communities across Chicago. By centering collaboration and the voices of those most impacted we are creating space for meaningful dialogue and actionable solutions that can transform health outcomes.” Sanders added, “We envision this summit becoming an annual catalyst for partnership, learning, and sustained progress toward a stronger and healthier Chicago for all.”
The program includes keynote addresses by Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige of the Chicago Department of Public Health and Dr. Adebayo Adelanke Bademosi of Advocate Trinity Physician Health Organization. Sessions will cover topics such as nursing leadership, innovation in healthcare education, pharmacy deserts, medical deserts on Chicago’s South and West Sides, social drivers of health—also known as social determinants—and other issues impacting local communities.
Speakers include academic leaders like Dr. Bonnie Mosley; clinicians such as Dr. Manuel Hernandez; representatives from organizations like Equal Hope; pharmacists; wellness practitioners; and additional experts from various sectors.
Malcolm X College serves both credit and non-credit students near the Illinois Medical District as City Colleges of Chicago’s center of excellence in health sciences education. Its campus features state-of-the-art facilities including a virtual hospital and offers what it describes as one of Illinois’ best Nursing programs.
