The Department of Family Medicine and Community Health has awarded 2020-21 scholarships to two medical students—Nicky Chung and Willis Wong—to implement projects that address an unmet need in the community.
Chung is the recipient of the Eva J. Salber Award, given to a third-year medical student to investigate and improve the health of a defined, disadvantaged population group. The award is named for Eva J. Salber, M.D., an early pioneer in Duke’s efforts to partner with Durham County on community health projects.
Chung’s project, “Going Places,” aims to improve the health and access to community physical activity of minority and low-income teens in the Durham community by increasing transportation equity. Her faculty mentor is Emily D’Agostino, DrPH, MEd, MA, assistant professor of family medicine and community health.
Wong, an MD/MBA student, is the recipient of the Michael R. Nathan Memorial Fund, which is awarded to a third-year medical student who undertakes a project in community health, occupational health, or international health. The fund is named for Michael R. Nathan, M.D., a 1973 graduate of Duke University School of Medicine. Nathan was killed in the Greensboro Massacre more than 40 years ago.
Wong’s project, “Root Causes WellNest Housing Support Program” will bring together health professions students and community members to provide a network of support for individuals experiencing homelessness and chronic health conditions, with an objective of setting up recently housed individuals for success in their new home environments. Wong’s faculty mentor is Donna Biederman, DrPH, MS, RN, CPH, FAAN, associate professor, Duke University School of Nursing.