Charles Drew University Gets $50 Million Infusion Toward Medical Degree Program
WILLOWBROOK (CBSLA) — The Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science in Willowbrook got a $50 million boost toward its new four-year medical degree program.
The extra-large check – both in size and in amount – was presented by state Assemblyman Mike Gipson to CEO Dr. David Carlisle.
The funds will go toward the building of a new 100,000-square-foot facility that will house the new medical degree program. It will eventually be home to classrooms, anatomy laboratories, and student common areas.
The $50 million was recently approved as part of Gov. Gavin Newsom's budget with a goal of training a new generation of Black and Latino doctors in the healthcare workforce. Currently, Black and Latino doctors only make up 8% of physicians in California, according to the university.
Since 2000, Charles Drew University says more than 70% of its graduates of been people of color. Officials say they hope to welcome its first class of 60 medical students to the program in 2023.