San Manuel Gateway College A significant milestone in Vision 2020 — The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow took place in September 2016, when the first class of students in the San Manuel Gateway College arrived for orientation and the beginning of their first year of classes. The first student cohort enrolled in the medical assistant certificate program. Each was a graduate of a San Bernardino County high school, with many being the first member of their families to pursuing a career in healthcare. The College would not have been possible without a $10 million gift from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, part of the Vision 2020 campaign. Additional philanthropic support has provided valuable start-up and scholarship funds. Loma Linda University Health is partnering with the San Bernardino City Unified School District on this project. The San Bernardino Campus also houses a Social Action Community (SAC) Health System clinic, which provides primary and specialty medical care, including dental care. Completing the space is a large behavioral health area with private and group counseling rooms, a pharmacy, laboratory, and vegetarian eatery, called the Farmacy Fresh Cafe. Many of the 700 physician residents in Loma Linda University Health’s specialty training programs are treating low-income patients in the busy clinic, and will interact with the San Manuel Gateway College students in their certificate programs. “To my knowledge,” says Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health, “Loma Linda University Health — San Bernardino Campus is the only educational model in the nation that will house three separate levels of education in one building.
San Manuel Band of Mission Indian Business Committee members Johnny Hernandez, Jr., Chairman Ken Ramirez and Audrey Martinez.
This model has the potential to be an example for low-income areas across the nation.” The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians’ support for the project came with the goal of revitalizing San Bernardino and surrounding communities. There is a long history between the tribe and Loma Linda University Health. More than 100 years ago physicians and nurses from Loma Linda visited the tribe to ensure members had access to quality healthcare. As the tribe has been blessed with resources, the San Manuel Gateway College offered a wholehearted opportunity for them to continue the relationship.
San Manuel Gateway College by the Numbers: • More than five certificate programs available • Over 300 students graduated • 90% of graduates are working in a healthcare career or pursuing higher education • More than 65% of students come from socially disadvantaged and underrepresented minority groups and qualify for scholarships.
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