Celebrating connection in action: OHACE event spotlights students, partnerships and impact
Annual “Cultivating Community” gathering brings together Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health and community partners to recognize a year of engagement and collaboration
Employees and students from Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Health gathered with community partners at The Hershey Lodge on Friday, April 24, for the Office of Health Advancement and Community Engagement’s (OHACE) third annual year-end celebration.
Centered on the theme “Cultivating Community,” the event highlighted student-led initiatives, cross-institution collaboration and engagement efforts that extend beyond campus. Together, these efforts reflect a shared mission across the academic health system: one grounded not only in education, research and patient care, but in the relationships and partnerships that make that work possible.
Karen Kim, MD, MS, College dean, shared opening remarks to begin the celebration. The evening featured a reception with poster presentations and opportunities for networking, followed by a dinner program with musical performances by Milton Hershey School student ensembles and remarks from institutional leaders.
A keynote address by Danielle M. Conway, dean of Penn State Dickinson Law, reinforced the program’s focus on leadership, service and expanding opportunity in education and health.
Throughout the program, OHACE recognized student organizations whose work supports outreach, access and engagement, along with individuals who have made meaningful contributions to strengthening connections across the College.
Amanda Cooper, MD, professor of surgery, was named the recipient of the OHACE Ally of the Year Award, recognizing her efforts to support a more connected and inclusive learning environment.
Student speakers also reflected on their experiences, highlighting the importance of mentorship, collaboration and service in shaping their journeys in health care.
Closing the event, Inginia Genao, MD, vice dean and vice president of health advancement and community engagement, underscored the importance of continued collaboration.
“This work cannot happen in isolation,” Dr. Genao said. “Now more than ever, we need one another. Your collaboration makes this community stronger.”
Bringing together voices from across both the College of Medicine and Penn State Health, the celebration reflected a shared commitment to connection, service and preparing the next generation of health professionals.
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