Community Engagement and Workforce Development

The Community Health Equity Research Institute Research Day was held in October 2022 at the Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center. Robert J. Gore, a 2002 alumnus of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, was the keynote speaker. Following that was a time for poster presentations and a group discussion.

Through collaborative partnerships, community-engaged research and innovative programs, we are working to address health disparities, improve access to care and create healthier communities across Western New York.

Two groups — headed by Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences professionals dedicated to community engagement, diversity, equity and inclusion — are involved in the strategic planning:

Community Engagement

We are active within the Western New York community and throughout the state and the nation. It is our mission to improve the health of populations, communities and individuals — on both a regional to global scale.

Pathway Programs for Workforce Development/Recruitment/Retention

Our strategic plan includes initiatives preparing and inspiring people from communities underrepresented in medicine (UIM) to join the field of medicine. We plan to strengthen methods for providing more people with skills training, academic, social and emotional support, mentoring and encouragement to enhance their success.

Leading the Effort

Anyango Kamina, PhD, is assistant dean for trainee and faculty development and a research assistant professor at the Jacobs School. A microbiologist by training, she leads initiatives that support student, trainee and faculty success, professional development and inclusive excellence across the academic community.

Brendan Tom is director of human resources for the Jacobs School. He oversees human resources strategy and operations, supporting faculty and staff recruitment, talent development and organizational effectiveness. He has served in a variety of human resources leadership roles at UB since 2016.

Recent Community-Engagement News

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Street Medicine Will Be a New Concentration for UB Family Medicine Residents, Thanks to a $2.5 Million HRSA Grant
2/17/26
The Department of Family Medicine is developing a program that trains physicians to provide high-quality, compassionate care to individuals experiencing homelessness and housing instability.
For One Medical Student, Jacobs School Felt Like a ‘Comfort Blanket Community’
3/17/26
As Match Day approaches, fourth-year medical student Maureen Fagan is reflecting on the journey that got her here — and is feeling extremely grateful for the support of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and the Buffalo community.
UB Launches WNY Long COVID Resource Center
5/7/26
To improve the care experience for patients by educating and engaging their providers, a multidisciplinary team of University at Buffalo researchers is launching the online WNY Long COVID Resource Center.
Panel Takes a Constructive Look at Health Inequities
3/3/26
The Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences hosted a moderated panel discussion Feb. 23 designed to foster thoughtful, solution-oriented dialogue around health inequities affecting communities in Western New York.
Highlighting Advancements in Treatment of Rare Diseases
3/11/26
This year’s Rare Disease Day event Feb. 27 at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences focused on updates in research and diagnostics, and advancements in treatment.
Research Forum Showcases 85 Medical Student Projects
3/2/26
Eighty-five original research projects from aspiring physician-scientists were on display at the 2026 Medical Student Research Forum at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.
Structural Racism Influences Diabetes Prevalence, Study Finds
4/14/26
Both historic redlining and contemporary structural racism are linked with higher diabetes occurrence among African Americans.
Afghan Refugees in WNY Will Benefit From Mental Health Support Thanks to State Grant
4/15/26
New York State has awarded the Department of Psychiatry a grant to provide culturally-appropriate, trauma-informed mental health support for Western New York’s Afghan community.
Three New Members Join Dean's Council
1/26/26
Three new members have joined the Dean’s Council at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Institute for Autism Research Moves to UB’s South Campus
6/23/26
The Institute for Autism Research (IAR) has moved to an expanded new location at UB.
Egede Named a SUNY Distinguished Professor
6/23/26
Leonard E. Egede, MD, Charles and Mary Bauer Endowed Chair and professor of medicine in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, is one of eight UB faculty members recently named as SUNY Distinguished Professors.