Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine (KPSOM) recently held its first-ever Community Partner Appreciation Reception, celebrating the organizations and individuals who help bridge the school’s educational mission with the vibrant communities of Pasadena and the surrounding region.
Hosted by the Office of Community Engagement and Government Affairs (OCEGA), the evening brought together local leaders, nonprofit representatives, faculty, students, and staff for an evening of gratitude, connection, and reflection. The event recognized community partners who collaborate with KPSOM on initiatives ranging from service to the homeless and underserved populations to experiential learning opportunities for medical students.
“Community engagement is part of the fabric of our young school,” said Lori Carter-Edwards, Associate Dean for Community Engagement and Government Affairs, who served as emcee. “The mission of OCEGA is to bring the school into the community and community into the school, through education, outreach, practice, service, research, and advocacy. Through our initiatives, programs, events, and curriculum, we work together and with others in the school to create bi-directional relationships of learning and service.”
Attendees enjoyed a dinner and recognition ceremony at the Medical Education Building, followed by an interactive Community Connections Corner, where participating organizations hosted booths to share their missions and invite further collaboration. Eleven community partners showcased their programs during the session, highlighting efforts that help KPSOM students understand and support the needs of diverse populations.
Roberta Marfínez, Pasadena historian and participant in KPSOM’s Early Immersive Experience program, reflected on the value of such collaborations. “The more people are interacting with each other, the more we know about each other, the stronger and more resilient our communities can be,” she said. “Every community, every group, has strength. And if you pull them together, then as a team, you're stronger.”
