From the president
Jonathan Jean Charles is majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Global Health Studies with a minor in Anthropology. He is passionate and dedicated to addressing the social issue of health inequity and its affects on low-income communities. As a Global Health Populations and Systems Fellow, he created a literature review and conducted a community health needs assessment to better understand the complexity of healthcare delivery systems. His involvement with the Student National Medical Association and the American College of Cardiology's Young Scholars Program has enhanced his understanding of healthcare inequities affecting low-income communities. Jonathan has also been able to gain on-the-ground training as a first responder in EMS Field experience working with Miami -Dade County Fire Rescue.
Personal Statement
Health inequity is a problem that affects low-income communities in Miami and other cities throughout the U.S. The Center for Haitian Studies and other organizations committed to addressing health inequities informed me of the uninsured rates in Miami and noncommunicable disease health disparities (e.g., heart disease, obesity, and stroke) that affect Black and Hispanic populations. My approach to addressing these inequities involves improving national health screening efforts and developing outreach programs to inform underserved populations about preventive care. Transportation is often a barrier that prevents people from accessing care, and further integrating transportation networks in rural communities could prevent people from developing a worse prognosis. My civic engagement reflects my dedication to addressing health and educational equity. My Global Health Populations and Systems Fellowship through the Student National Medical Association has deepened my understanding of healthcare delivery in under-resourced contexts. Through NAMI Miami-Dade, I inform high school students about mental health awareness. I also serve as a mentor for the Upward Bound Math and Science program, where I guide students through the college application process. Through the Newman Civic Fellowship, I aim to further my impact as a leader dedicated to health equity and other social issues.