Welcome to the Center for Diversity Affairs

The Center for Diversity Affairs (CDA), formerly the Office of Minority Affairs, was established in 1976 under the auspices of the College of Medicine to serve the traditionally under-represented students (African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders) in medicine.

The fundamental principle that guides the Center for Diversity of Affairs is the development of a diversified healthcare system.  This driving tenet is carried out by ensuring that underrepresented minorities are adequately prepared for a career in healthcare.  To ensure academic preparation of students, the CDA has developed academic enrichment programs that identify students as early as elementary to encourage, support and participate in all stages of their educational career.  

The CDA is also responsible for recruiting and encouraging admission, successful matriculation, retention and graduation of underrepresented candidates interested in pursuing a career in medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.  Overall the goal of the CDA is to:

• Develop pipeline programs to ensure underrepresented students are adequately prepared educationally
• Assist students in their personal development by providing programs and initiatives that educate, motivate, and challenge them
• Foster an environment conducive to the recruitment, training and success of ethnically, socially and culturally diverse physicians and students

We hope that you find our website to be insightful and engaging. If you have further questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our office or me.