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April 11–17 | Black Maternal Health events highlight maternal health crisis

During Black Maternal Health Week, April 11 to 17, Penn State Health is partnering with Highmark to bring awareness to the critical issue of maternal mortality. We will host educational events highlighting the health care disparities that have been particularly devastating for Black women.

Funding for the events comes from a $50,000 Highmark grant made possible because of the efforts of Dr. Tonya Wright, chief of the Division of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. She and her team have been active in raising awareness and funds to improve maternal health, particularly for women experiencing disparities in access to and quality of care. Maternal deaths affect not only the family and friends of the deceased but also the health care team and the wider community.

Black Maternal Health Week events are open to everyone: 

Empowering Black Mothers through Education

  • Sunday, April 14
  • 2–4 p.m.
  • Whitaker Center for the Arts and Sciences, 222 Market St., Harrisburg

This free community event features a keynote speaker and interactive sessions for black women who are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Learn more.

Grand Rounds and Research Poster Symposium

Wednesday, April 17

Black Maternal Health Research Poster Symposium

  • Noon–4 p.m.
    Penn State College of Medicine, Room C3621
  • Accepted posters focus on disparities in maternal and reproductive health

Keynote Grand Rounds Presentation

  • 4–5 p.m.
  • Presenter: Morgan Cephas
  • Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Co-chair, Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus
  • Penn State College of Medicine, Room C4618 (Lecture Room A)

Reception and Poster Awards

  • 5–6 p.m.
  • Penn State College of Medicine, Room C3621/Third Floor Lobby

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