The Maternal and Child Health Student Association (MCHSA) at the University of South Carolina-Columbia had an exciting and impactful 2024–2025 academic year. Through 12 dynamic events and community partnerships, MCHSA created meaningful spaces for students to explore maternal and child health, connect with professionals, and engage in community-centered work.
Prioritizing academic enrichment and mentorship, MCHSA held two Journal Club sessions, where students explored topics such as contraceptive care and racial/ethnic disparities in maternal and infant health. Student-faculty lunches with Dr. Nandita Perumal and Dr. Jennifer Fillo offered students valuable opportunities to build relationships with faculty and gain insights into career paths in maternal and child health.
MCHSA’s 2024-2025 programming also amplified support for the Black Maternal Health Week Empowerment Fest, a vibrant event featuring a panel of advocates, professionals, and community leaders. Tabling partners such as Black Doulas of Columbia, Midlands Healthy Start, Scrub Life Cares, March of Dimes, USC Health Services, and the Prenatal Vitamin Club helped create an engaging and informative atmosphere.
A key highlight of the year was MCHSA’s growing partnership with USC’s Galen Health Fellows, which led to several co-hosted events focused on health equity and community engagement. This partnership included engaging with the Power in Changing Guest Speaker Event along with three volunteer days, which gave students hands-on opportunities to support local initiatives in South Carolina. Collaborations with Prisma Health Healthy Start further strengthened MCHSA’s community ties, including a Women’s Health Interactive Workshop that encouraged dialogue and learning around holistic care.
During this time, MCHSA continued to hold their general body meetings throughout the year, including sessions focused on student elections, leadership, and how to actively participate within the organization.
As they continue to grow, MCHSA continues to show up as a vibrant, thriving community for students passionate about maternal and child health. Whether through volunteering, learning, or networking, the association offers a welcoming space to make a difference on-campus and beyond. The MCH Catalyst Program, through the Maternal and Child Health Student Association, will continue to organize and facilitate student support at USC, ensuring that students have meaningful opportunities to engage in maternal and child health throughout their education.
Follow MCHSA’s current activities and programming here.