Posted on May 1, 2022 by Amanda Cerreto

MAY 1, 2022 - Associate Dean for Research and Associate Professor of Public Health Erica Sosa has been elected to the Board of Directors for Methodist Healthcare Ministries .

Erica Sosa Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. is a private, faith-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating access to health care for uninsured and low-income families through direct services, community partnerships and strategic grant-making in 74 counties across South Texas.

Sosa's expertise in diabetes prevention research and outreach - particularly in underserved and minority communities - makes her an asset to the Board. In recent years, Methodist Healthcare Ministries has shifted their focus from a primarily clinical focus on health to a more comprehensive perspective of the different dimensions of health. They are now including social determinants of health in their work - another expertise area of Sosa's.

"I have been such a big fan of Methodist Healthcare Ministries and all the good work they do for a long time," said Sosa. "Being invited to be a part of the Board and contribute to their mission, ‘serving humanity to honor God,' is truly humbling."

Sosa is looking forward to assisting Methodist Healthcare Ministries with addressing the multiple urgent health-related needs in South Texas and anticipates building relationships - a key tenant of the organization's mission.

Sosa's selection to the Board is also an opportunity for closer collaboration with the College for Health, Community and Policy. “We share common goals, such as increasing health equity and improving the lives of community members,” Sosa said. “Partnering in these efforts will help us all collectively move toward reaching those ambitious, but immensely important, goals.”

— Amanda Cerreto