TRIO mediGOAL Conference Brings MVC Students Closer to Careers in Medicine
On Saturday, October 19, Moreno Valley College (MVC) brought together nearly 150 students aspiring to be healthcare professionals for the inaugural TRIO mediGOAL Medical Student Leadership Conference. Organized by MVC’s Office of TRIO Programs, the event successfully exposed college and high school students in the TRIO ACES Program to promising pathways in the medical and allied health fields, connecting them with professionals and peers who have already paved the way in their journeys.
The conference featured a comprehensive lineup of activities, including an information fair, networking opportunities, workshops, and a speaker panel. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Denise Martinez, associate dean of diversity, equity, and inclusion and clinical professor at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, who inspired students with insights on diversity in healthcare.
Following her address, Dr. Edwin Kendrick, a vascular surgeon and chair of SANO Health ARM, led a dynamic plenary session. Other distinguished presenters included Dr. Roxanne Favis, clinical assistant professor of anesthesiology at USC Keck School of Medicine and co-founder of MediGOAL, and Kendrick Davis, Ph.D., vice chair of research in psychiatry and neuroscience at UC Riverside School of Medicine.
Students explored MVC’s allied health programs, such as dental hygiene, dental assisting, and emergency medical services, while connecting with Riverside City College’s nursing program representatives. Resource tables from MVC’s Outreach program, engagement centers, UC Riverside’s pre-med pathways, Healthy Communities Programs, Loma Linda University, CSU San Bernardino’s kinesiology department, and others provided valuable information on educational and career pathways in healthcare.
“This conference was more than an introduction to healthcare careers—it’s a bridge to real-world connections and opportunities,” said Micki Grayson, director, TRIO Programs. “Collaborating with medical professionals is essential, as it empowers our students to share their journeys and advocate for the communities they’ll serve.”
Reflecting on the event, one student shared:
“The speakers were inspiring and helped me believe that my dream of a medical career is possible.” Another attendee added, “I’m grateful to be part of the first year and hope this becomes an annual event.”
The mediGOAL Medical Student Leadership Conference provided students with connections, insights, and confidence to pursue their medical aspirations. MVC and the TRIO office are dedicated to supporting the next generation of healthcare leaders.