Seven Ivanna Eudora Kean High School students and students from around the country gleaned career advice and lessons in policy making from members of Congress Tuesday as part of the National African American Youth Initiative (NAAYI), a preparatory program for students entering health professions.
NAAYI is sponsored by the Auxiliary to the National Medical Association (NMA) and is designed to provide high school students who are interested in health careers with firsthand experience on how the federal government formulates and implements health initiatives. The Capitol Hill visit is sponsored annually by Delegate to Congress and physician Donna Christian Christensen, a longtime member and former trustee of the NMA.
Representing the Virgin Islands in its largest turnout this year were Ivanna Eudora Kean High School students Raquel Caban, 11th grade; Chantele Casimir, 11th grade; Jarvis Anderson, 11th grade; Kaeche Liburd, 11th grade; Jarvis Anderson, 11th grade; Kehmisha Reid, 11th grade; Blissa Letang, 10th grade; and Shenita Penn, 10th grade.
Participants in the program come from various states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands to address the under representation of African Americans in health professions, the lack of mentors and role models, as well as to support and encourage socially responsible African American youth.
"I am really pleased at the large turnout of Virgin Islands students this year and thank American Airlines for providing their transportation to Washington. I hope that more young people will take advantage of this exciting opportunity to visit our Nation's capital and interact with other students who share the same professional ambitions," Christensen said.
Interested students may contact the Congressional District Offices at 774-4408 or 778-5900.