Nashville-based Meharry Medical College, the nation’s largest private, independent historically Black academic health sciences center, has announced the launch of its Office of Memphis Programs, a major step in expanding the college’s statewide and national impact. The new office will support Meharry’s mission to train the next generation of health professionals to serve urban and rural communities that have long faced barriers to quality care.
The Office of Memphis Programs will serve two core purposes: providing support for Meharry students completing clinical training at Memphis-area health institutions, and introducing STEAM-focused educational programs to K–12 students in Memphis and Shelby County. The initiative aims to strengthen the health care workforce pipeline and address health disparities in underserved populations.
The announcement follows Meharry’s recent acquisition of four Memphis medical clinics previously owned by Sanitas U.S.A., Inc. The clinics are now part of the Meharry Health Network, further anchoring the college’s commitment to health equity in the region.
“Meharry’s presence in Memphis is driven by our mission, which calls us to go to communities with both profound need and significant potential,” said James E.K. Hildreth Sr., Ph.D., M.D., president/CEO of Meharry Medical College. “Our physicians, dentists, and researchers, guided by a whole-person approach to care, are well-equipped to treat the chronic conditions that disproportionately affect communities of color. We look forward to collaborating with The BLVD, local government, and community partners to build a healthier Memphis for all.”
The office will be located on the 23-acre campus of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church (The BLVD), which recently unveiled a $310 million mixed-use development plan centered on healthy living in the Memphis Medical District. Meharry becomes The BLVD’s first mission-aligned anchor partner.
In addition, Meharry has finalized an agreement with Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare to provide clinical and research training opportunities for its students—deepening the institution’s ties to Memphis’s health care infrastructure.
“I thank the Memphis community for the warm welcome that has been extended to Meharry and our students,” said Dr. Stephanie Sweet, associate vice president of Meharry’s Office of Memphis Programs. “As a native Memphian, I am honored to use my deep roots in this city to foster new partnerships and ensure Meharry’s presence here is one of hope, healing, and opportunity.”
