South Central Kentucky Area Health Education Center (SC KY AHEC), housed within the College of Health and Human Services at Western Kentucky University, has been awarded $40,000 in grant funding from The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation to expand its healthcare pathway programs for both middle and high school students across South Central Kentucky. The funding will allow SC KY AHEC to deepen its impact in the region by increasing access to healthcare education and career exploration opportunities for students in the surrounding communities.

Currently, Kentucky faces a shortage of healthcare professionals, and rural communities are particularly affected. SC KY AHEC’s health career pathway programs address these challenges by engaging students early and building a local pipeline for future healthcare professionals. 

The $40,000 grant will allow SC KY AHEC to grow its Future Healthcare Professionals (FHP) program, reaching 350 high school students across eight counties in the region. FHP exposes students to a variety of health careers through hands-on activities and guest speakers with a goal of increasing their knowledge, confidence, and motivation to pursue a healthcare career.

The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation funding supports sustainable solutions that improve access to care, enhance community health outcomes, and prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals committed to serving their local rural communities.

About South Central KY AHEC:

SC KY AHEC connects students, educators, and healthcare partners to strengthen the future of healthcare in south central Kentucky. Through innovative educational programs and community partnerships, SC KY AHEC increases awareness of healthcare careers and supports workforce development in rural and high-need areas of Kentucky. Learn more at https://www.wku.edu/scahec/ 

Contact: Catherine Malin, Center Director 
Catherine.Malin@wku.edu
270-745-3325