Parkland Health
Parkland Health exemplifies a local corporate partner that has strategically optimized its participation in Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study (CWS), fully leveraging the return on investment (ROI) benefits. By developing the future workforce, Parkland Health is not only investing in the professional growth of student associates but also utilizing the program to enhance management skills within its own team. This dual focus provides valuable hands-on experience for students while simultaneously driving leadership development for Parkland's staff, maximizing the impact of the CWS partnership.
Parkland Health's continued involvement in the Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study program reflects a strategic commitment to community engagement and healthcare advocacy. Our company"s ongoing participation in Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study is diverse and impactful, providing students with valuable skills and experiences while positively impacting the community's health and well-being.”
- Dr. Kavita Bhavan, Chief Innovation Officer
In April 2024, Parkland Health was awarded a CWS Impact Award for its outstanding participation in the Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study (CWS) program in Dallas. Parkland Health has demonstrated exceptional mentorship and youth workforce development, fully integrating student associates as valued members of its teams - both in medical support roles and across various non-medical corporate functions.
The organization’s involvement in the program reflects a strong commitment to healthcare advocacy in the community. One key initiative has involved deploying student health ambassadors to increase flu vaccine uptake in areas with high mortality rates, such as Cristo Rey Dallas’ zip code. These students have made significant contributions by co-creating Spanish radio messages, assisting at events, and presenting their work in scientific journals. Notably, a student co-presented with Parkland’s chief innovation officer as part of a vaccine equity campaign, and another used Basic Life Support training to save their sibling’s life, later sharing this experience at the 2023 Healthier Texas Summit.
Parkland Health’s program provides invaluable hands-on experience in healthcare, offering student associates opportunities to shadow in clinical areas and complete public health projects that address health disparities in Dallas. Students have participated in various initiatives, including promoting MyChart usage and painting a mural in the pediatric burn unit. These experiences help shape their career paths while fostering public health advocacy within their communities. The program equips student associates with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in healthcare careers.