Durham Early College of Health Sciences Receives Community Impact Award at Health Equity Symposium
Durham Early College of Health Sciences (DECHS) was recognized with the Community Impact Award at the 2nd Annual MaryAnn Black Distinguished Health Equity Symposium, held on February 5, 2026, at the Durham Convention Center.
The award honors organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing health equity and building meaningful partnerships within the community. DECHS was selected for its significant and lasting impact on the greater Durham County community, particularly through its focus on preparing students for careers in health sciences while addressing broader community needs.
During the symposium, DECHS Principal Joshua Brown presented to award judges, highlighting the school’s mission, innovative academic model, and community-centered approach. His presentation emphasized how DECHS fosters early exposure to health careers and supports student success while contributing to local efforts to reduce health disparities.
The MaryAnn Black Distinguished Health Equity Symposium honors the legacy of the late MaryAnn Black, former State Representative and Associate Vice President for Community Relations at Duke University Health System. Black was widely known for her visionary leadership, commitment to collaboration, and dedication to building strong, lasting partnerships across sectors. The symposium reflects Duke’s ongoing commitment to working alongside communities to understand and address the root causes of health disparities.
This year’s event took place from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. and featured a keynote address by Mel Mann, a research poster session, and dinner. The gathering brought together community leaders, educators, researchers, and advocates in the spirit of shared learning, partnership, and celebration.
The recognition of DECHS underscores the school’s growing role as a leader in health education and community engagement in Durham County.
News Coverage: ABC11