Empowering Community Wellness: Wright State Medical Students Collaborate with Premier Health

Wright State University medical students, alongside the Premier Community Health Mobile Clinic team, hosted a free health fair aimed at benefiting the Dayton community. Held on April 12 at St. Vincent de Paul CityThrift lot, the fair attracted around 200 attendees who learned about hygiene, nutrition, mental health, and other health topics.

This initiative not only served the community but also provided medical students a chance to engage in meaningful service. “We know that health goes beyond what’s in a doctor’s office. We want to inspire our community towards better well-being,” said Bethany Ekeh, a third-year medical student and organizer of the event.

Dr. Raj Mitra, dean of Wright State’s Boonshoft School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of the partnership with Premier Health. He expressed optimism about continuing to address the community’s needs effectively.

During the fair, medical students helped with health screenings measuring blood pressure, cholesterol, and more. “We helped 29 individuals today. The students asked insightful questions and connected attendees with local resources,” said Sumayyah Shermadou, the program manager at Premier Community Health.

Various student organizations contributed, making the event lively and informative. Groups included the Latino Medical Student Association and the Student National Medical Association. They set up fun activities for children, such as coloring stations and exercises, to ease anxiety about visiting the doctor. Attendees also enjoyed healthful snacks and received useful products like toothbrushes and sunscreen.

Music from 92.1 WROU kept spirits high, while special bus routes provided transportation for attendees. Other local organizations like Ziks Family Pharmacy and Families of Addicts participated, enhancing community outreach.

The fair not only promoted healthier lifestyles but also set the stage for future events, with plans to return in 2026.

Research shows community health fairs like this one significantly improve local health awareness. According to a study by the American Journal of Public Health, such events can lead to better health outcomes by increasing knowledge and access to care. Engaging students in these activities cultivates a sense of responsibility, preparing them for a future in medicine while directly benefiting those around them.

This collaboration underscores the power of community engagement in health. As more institutions recognize the importance of outreach, we can expect to see a growing commitment to public health initiatives in neighborhoods everywhere.



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