Academic

Leidos Invests $10M in AI-Powered Disease Detection with University of Pittsburgh

Leidos is committing $10 million to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence for detecting and managing diseases, in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh's Computational Pathology and AI Center of Excellence (CPACE). The initial focus of the five-year collaboration will be developing AI-powered tools for quicker detection of diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, reducing diagnostic turnaround times, and enabling earlier, more effective care management. "Our investment is aimed at using the transformative power of artificial intelligence to speed detection, diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect millions of people annually," said Leidos CEO Tom Bell. "These efforts will also focus on developing future health care specialists, and expanding the care that's available to underserved communities, including our veterans." Key objectives of the Leidos-University of Pittsburgh collaboration include: Establishing a World-Class Research Hub: University of Pittsburgh will enhance CPACE by continuing development of its state-of-the-art Digital Pathology Research Center. These facilities will drive pioneering research in digital pathology and AI-driven diagnostics. Developing Digital Health Care Solutions: Advancing AI-powered technologies will cement the University of Pittsburgh's leadership in digital pathology and enable Leidos to develop innovative solutions designed to support digital health and diagnostics. Accelerating Global Impact: Leidos plans to leverage the collaboration to deploy AI-powered digital pathology solutions across public and private health care sectors with the goal of leading the commercialization of innovative health care technologies. "The University of Pittsburgh's leadership in research and innovation, coupled with the expertise in technology solutions offered by Leidos, establishes a path forward to delivering advancements in diagnosis, disease management and health care delivery," said Anantha Shekhar, senior vice chancellor for the health sciences and John and Gertrude Petersen Dean, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Through this multi-year collaboration, Leidos and the University of Pittsburgh will drive advances in several critical areas: Research & Technology Development: Joint research projects will explore new imaging methods, advanced scanning technologies to analyze tissue samples, and improved techniques for analyzing medical images with precision. Workforce Development & Education: The initiative will cultivate the next generation of health care and AI innovators through comprehensive educational programs, including industry-focused best practices, annual symposiums, and hands-on internship opportunities where students will collaborate directly with Leidos experts. "We want these tools to impact as many people as possible globally. Leidos can help get them into many more hands, ensuring that they are validated properly and get through the right regulatory frameworks," said Hooman Rashidi, executive director of CPACE and associate dean of AI in medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. By merging academic excellence with technological innovation, the collaboration is poised to redefine the future of health care delivery and disease management. "This relationship with Leidos serves as a catalyst to expedite our mission. Industry partnership will help broaden the impact of Pitt's innovation," said Liron Pantanowitz, Dr. Maud L. Menten Professor and chair of the Department of Pathology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

ENA Launches Trauma Nursing Advanced Course

When nurses have in-depth knowledge to manage complex trauma cases and can anticipate injury patterns with the appropriate interventions, they are more confident when caring for patients with severe injuries. The Emergency Nurses Association recently launched the Trauma Nursing Advanced Course designed to equip nurses with the critical thinking and additional knowledge they need to strengthen their expertise. TNAC is available for emergency, trauma and critical care nurses already experienced in trauma care who are seeking advanced knowledge in trauma management. "Many times, severe injuries in the ED can require an advanced level of care," said ENA President Ryan Oglesby, PhD, MHA, RN, CEN, CFRN, NEA-BC. "TNAC is able to provide experienced trauma care nurses with the higher-level critical thinking and clinical skills necessary to take care of complex trauma patients with skill, precision and confidence." Prior to enrolling in TNAC, nurses must have a current Trauma Nursing Core Course verification after taking an 8th or 9th edition course. Nurses completing TNAC receive 25 contact hours and a four-year verification demonstrating expertise in advanced trauma care. TNAC follows a 3-4 week learning flow, with online modules; in-person or virtual classroom sessions; and a final in-person simulation experience. The course covers a wide range of advanced trauma topics, including critical thinking and clinical decision-making, physiologic response to trauma and shock, massive transfusion and hemodynamic management, neurological trauma and more. A study done by ENA researchers identified elements of an advanced trauma nursing program for the emergency department and defined advanced trauma nursing practice education curriculum for emergency department nurses. The results of this study served as the foundation for the content to be included in TNAC. "ENA is proud to have a team of researchers dedicated to improving emergency nursing care and education for nurses so they can provide the best patient care possible," said Oglesby. "Watching TNAC come to fruition has been exciting as ENA is the only nursing association that develops and delivers its own research."

Planet Smilez Builds Pipeline to Tackle Dental Health Provider Shortage

In response to the growing national shortage of oral health professionals, Planet Smilez is building a pipeline of future providers. They believe through early exposure, hands-on learning, and mentorship for students from educationally and economically underserved regions, this can be addressed. By engaging students from dental health professional shortage areas (HPSAs) at a young age and introducing them to careers in dentistry, Planet Smilez is addressing critical workforce gaps and helping improve access to care in underserved communities. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of oral health professionals from dental HPSAs to pursue careers in oral health and return to serve their own communities. To combat this, Dr. Kathryn Pawlak and the Planet Smilez senior leadership team will present the Discovering Dentistry Symposium (DDS). Planet Smilez is proud to have received funding from Delta Dental as part of their continued dedication to advancing the future of the oral health workforce. Since 2023, Delta Dental has invested more than $1.7 million in programs that support developing comprehensive solutions, innovative pilots, and scalable models that inspire school-aged children from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to pursue careers in oral health. Planet Smilez is honored to be named a 2024 awardee in recognition of its commitment to hosting 10 immersive workshops nationwide. Planet Smilez is thrilled to present the Discovering Dentistry Symposium on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at East Side High School in Newark, NJ. Designed to spark interest in oral health and STEM, this immersive event explores the oral-systemic health connection, showcases dental careers, and offers a glimpse into the daily life of oral health professionals. Geared toward middle and high school students, the symposium features engaging hands-on activities, mentorship opportunities and in-depth career exploration. Attendees will have the chance to connect with dental professionals and oral health professional students, deepen their understanding of oral health, and discover the many rewarding pathways within the dental field. This inspiring event is made possible through the generous support of the Delta Dental Institute. "I believe education and mentorship has the power to transform lives," Pawlak said. "My goal for the DDS program is to empower children with oral healthcare knowledge and hands-on dentistry experiences. This will optimally help children envision a future in dentistry, while also fostering a generation of oral healthcare professionals who can address the needs of their communities, they one day will serve."

PSB Academy Launches Third Campus at The Cathay, Boosts Paramedicine Education

PSB Academy (PSBA), Singapore's leading private education institution (PEI), has officially launched its third campus at The Cathay, alongside the signing of a tripartite collaboration to enhance paramedicine education in Singapore. This new collaboration with Coventry University and COSEM, a cooperative of Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), aims to introduce specialised paramedicine courses to address the nation's rising emergency call volumes and workforce shortages. The inauguration event was graced by Her Excellency Alice Cooke, Acting Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission Singapore. It is also attended by prominent guests such as Coventry University Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Latham CBE, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), Professor Richard Wells, Coventry University Singapore Hub Managing Director, Dr Michael Yap, SCDF Deputy Commissioners, DC Teong How Hwa and DC Daniel Seet, and COSEM Safety & Security Services General Manager, Anthony Pek. Derrick Chang, Chief Executive Officer of PSBA, shared: "The Cathay Campus represents an important evolution in PSB Academy's mission to cultivate industry-ready graduates that are trained with practical skills for real-world applications. Industry collaborations underpin our approach to education. This expansion of our facilities ensures that students have access to a learning environment that not only meets academic standards but also reflects the needs of today's workforce." Pioneering Industry-Relevant Education in Singapore At the launch, both PSBA and Coventry University kickstarted with a symbolic signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Collaboration Agreement to signal both organisations' commitment to enhancing the delivery of quality degree programmes in Singapore. This was followed by the signing of a tripartite collaboration between Coventry University, COSEM, and PSBA to advance paramedicine education in Singapore. This initiative integrates COSEM's industry leadership, Coventry University's academic framework, and PSBA's delivery excellence to establish a rigorous paramedicine training programme. Professor John Latham, Vice Chancellor of Coventry University UK comments: "In the current healthcare climate, there is a pressing need for academic institutions and industry stakeholders to synergise to elevate emergency response training. With Singapore's emergency call volumes rising annually, it is crucial that paramedicine professionals receive training that is both academically rigorous and practically relevant to meet evolving healthcare challenges." Last year, SCDF responded to 245,279 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) calls, with almost half of them involving seniors over the age of 65. The number is expected to increase this year as the country's aging population continues to grow. Deputy Commissioner Teong How Hwa, SCDF shared on the initiative's significance on the emergency workforce: "This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing SCDF's Emergency Medical Services. By offering quality educational pathways and specialised training in paramedicine, we are able to equip aspiring paramedics with advanced medical expertise and skills. This ensures a competent and resilient EMS workforce to meet Singapore's growing demand for pre-hospital emergency care." Michael Chua, Chief Executive Officer of COSEM underscored the programme's impact in relevance to the real scenarios their workforce faces everyday: "This collaboration is meant to strengthen Singapore's pre-hospital emergency care capabilities at a time when demand is at an all-time high. Paramedics need to have advanced skills to ensure faster, more effective responses to a wide range of medical emergencies."

Arizona’s Healthcare Shortage: AZ Blue Invests $200K in Future Workers

Arizona needs more workers in healthcare. Across the state, there is a shortage of health providers making it hard for patients to get the care they need. To help bridge the gap, AZ Blue is giving $200,000 in aid to future health workers. The gift, from AZ Blue Health Choice and the AZ Blue Foundation, provides need-based support for hundreds of students at Maricopa Community Colleges. "Investing in students will go on to strengthen Arizona's health system," said Heather Carter, Medicaid Segment General Manager and Health Choice of Arizona CEO. "It's a chance for students to start careers that will make an impact in the lives of Arizonans." Who Will Benefit? Up to 400 students across Maricopa Community Colleges, including: Students in the Bachelor of Behavioral Health program. Students in the Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) program. This will help students in the Fall of 2025 and Spring of 2026. These students will receive $500 in aid to help cover school costs. "This gift from AZ Blue is a step in shaping the future of care. By investing in our students, we are making sure that our state can meet the health needs of tomorrow," said Paul Penzone, Chief Community Relations Officer at AZ Blue. Maricopa Community Colleges trains more than 8,000 students in health fields every year. The colleges produce nearly one-third of the nurses in Arizona. "We know that scholarships play a critical role in helping students reach their academic goals, especially those balancing jobs, family, and extracurricular activities," said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor. "This new scholarship initiative will help students stay on track, allowing them the opportunity to move into rewarding careers that give back to the communities we serve."

SJVC Launches Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership program to Empower Future Leaders

San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) is proud to announce a new online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership (BSOL) program designed to help professionals advance their careers in leadership and management. The program may be completed in as few as 18 months and serves as a bridge for those who have already earned an associate of science degree and are eager to further their education. The online BSOL program focuses on different aspects of effective leadership, including communication strategies, data analysis, group dynamics, and research methods. It is designed to provide graduates with a foundation of skills and competencies for navigating today's dynamic organizational landscape. "SJVC is dedicated to equipping students with the tools and knowledge to advance in their careers and make meaningful contributions to their organizations," said Nick Gomez, President of SJVC. "The Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership program is a significant step forward in providing flexible and practical education for aspiring leaders." Throughout the program, students will cultivate skills in effective communication, problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and data-driven leadership. Graduates of the program should be prepared for leadership roles in fields such as human resources, training and development, management analysis, and post-secondary business education. Graduates of the BSOL program will be equipped with leadership skills to manage change, resolve conflicts, and leverage data to make informed business decisions. The program provides a foundation for professional growth and can help graduates pursue leadership opportunities across various industries.

'Ohana Health Plan Provides Scholarships for Aspiring Nurses to address the nursing shortage

'Ohana Health Plan, a leading provider of government-sponsored managed care services in Hawaiʻi and a Centene Corporation company, announced a $25,000 contribution to the University of Hawaii Foundation for the 'Ohana Health Plan Pre-Nursing Scholarship at the University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu. The purpose of the ʻOhana Health Plan Pre-Nursing Scholarship - UH West Oʻahu is to assist students enrolled in the pre-nursing program at UH West O'ahu, with funds to be used for costs associated with attendance (e.g. tuition, books, fees, etc.). The University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu Bachelor of Applied Science, Health Professions, General Health Science concentration with a Pre-Nursing Pathway was designed to address the nursing shortage in the state of Hawaiʻi, specifically the west side of Oʻahu, and aims to develop and prepare scholarly leaders from west Oʻahu who are interested in improving the health and wellness of their community through a career in nursing. ʻOhana Health Plan initially created the scholarship in 2016 with a $10,000 gift that supported 12 students. "Hawaii is experiencing a nursing shortage and 'Ohana Health Plan is committed to investing in our local workforce development," said Scott Sivik, Plan President and Chief Executive Officer. "We are pleased to offer another round of Pre-Nursing Pathway Scholarships at the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu to students interested in transforming the health of the community, one person at a time." "Healthcare and increasing the number of healthcare professionals — especially nurses — is paramount in Hawaiʻi," said Dr. Rebecca Romine, Faculty Director of the Pre-Nursing Pathway Program at UH West Oʻahu. "These scholarships will help reduce financial stress so our students can focus more on their studies and academic performance," said Romine, who is an Associate Professor with the Division of Mathematics, Natural, and Health Sciences at UH West Oʻahu. "The scholarship funds will help students from the west side of Oʻahu learn and practice the skills and knowledge within the pre-nursing curriculum so that they pursue a nursing career." Nicole Akana, Co-Lead of the Pre-Nursing Pathway Program, added that the scholarship is more than financial support for students. "It's an investment in the future of healthcare on the west side of our island," Akana said. "By empowering aspiring nurses, we are addressing the critical nursing shortage and strengthening our local workforce, ensuring quality care for our community for generations to come."

APUS's Master of Science Healthcare Administration Program Earns CAHME Accreditation

American Public University System (APUS) has earned initial accreditation for its Master of Science Healthcare Administration (MSHA) program from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). The accreditation recognizes APUS's commitment to excellence in healthcare management education. "Achieving CAHME accreditation is a testament to the excellence and rigor of our healthcare management program," said Dr. Brian Freeland, Dean of the School of STEM and the School of Health Sciences at APUS. "This accreditation assures that we meet rigorous standards of academic quality and professional relevance, providing our students with a robust foundation for their careers." APUS's Master of Science Healthcare Administration program helps students gain understanding in legal and ethical healthcare administration, organizational behavior, technology applications in health information management, and financial management. "CAHME's mission is to advance the quality of healthcare management education globally. CAHME-accredited programs have successfully navigated a complex and careful accreditation process managed by experts in the study and practice of healthcare management," said Dr. Anthony Stanowski, DHA, FACHE, president and CEO of CAHME. "The program meets rigorous standards set by leading academics and practitioners. We recognize their commitment to the field."

Numinus Approved as a State-Certified Natural Medicine Training Program

Numinus Wellness Inc., a mental healthcare company advancing traditional and innovative behavioral health treatments including safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies, is proud to announce that its Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Training Program has been officially approved by the state of Colorado, marking a significant milestone in the company's mission to expand safe and effective psychedelic-assisted therapy. This approval comes as part of Colorado's Natural Medicine Health Act (Proposition 122), which establishes a legal framework for the facilitation of psilocybin services by trained and licensed professionals. "This is an exciting step forward for both Numinus and for the future of psychedelic-assisted therapy in Colorado," said Michael Tan, CEO of Numinus Wellness. "We are committed to ensuring that practitioners receive the highest standard of training so they can provide safe, ethical, and transformative psilocybin-assisted therapy in accordance with Colorado's regulations." Numinus' state-approved certification pathway includes coursework in psychedelic-assisted therapy fundamentals, psilocybin-specific training, trauma-informed care, and practical applications, along with clinical practicum placements to ensure hands-on experience. "Our program is designed to go beyond the basics, offering experiential learning, trauma-informed care, and somatic practices that prepare facilitators for the nuances of psychedelic-assisted therapy," said Amanda Giesler, Director of Training at Numinus. "By completing our certification, practitioners can enter this field with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to provide safe and impactful care."

The Vilcek Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Prizes for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science.

Applications for the 2026 Vilcek Foundation Prizes for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science are being accepted now through June 9, 2025. These $50,000 prizes are given each year to three early- to mid-career immigrant scientists living in the United States who have made outstanding contributions to their field. "Receiving the Vilcek Prize is an incredible honor, a milestone in my scientific and personal journey from a town in Poland to one of the greatest scientific centers in the United States," says Tomasz Nowakowski, winner of the 2024 Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science. "I am deeply grateful to [foundation founders] Jan and Marica Vilcek for their vision to promote the careers of so many immigrant scientists who strive to make game-changing discoveries in biomedical sciences, and who recognize the United States as the best place to do the most exciting science." The Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science are a part of the Vilcek Foundation Prizes program, which celebrates immigrants and their contributions to arts, culture, and biomedical research in the United States. "Immigrant scientists like evolutionary biologist Harmit S. Malik or Nobel Prize winner Katalin Karikó are continually at the forefront of innovation in the United States," says President of the Vilcek Foundation Rick Kinsel. "Our aim in awarding the Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science is to support auspicious early-career immigrants who are conducting groundbreaking research in human health, development, and treatment. We hope to underscore the need for their work in our society and bolster their impressive careers."