Old Dominion University and Eastern Virginia Medical School are teaming up to address the shortage of medical professionals in the region by creating the Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU.
This collaboration, set to begin on July 1, aims to expand the healthcare workforce in Hampton Roads by attracting and retaining local talent. The merger will also double the number of residency slots available in the area.
The partnership, which has the support of a 10-year agreement with ODU, EVMS, and Sentara providing 0 million in funding, is expected to enhance healthcare capabilities and reduce disparities in the region.
To support students interested in pursuing careers in health sciences, the Ellmer and Brock families have donated million each to create scholarships. ODU’s School of Nursing and College of Health Sciences have been renamed the Ellmer School of Nursing and Ellmer College of Health Sciences.
With the integration of the Virginia Health Sciences program, the combined institution will serve 5,000 students. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve healthcare and benefit the community.
Overall, the merger between ODU and EVMS represents a significant step towards addressing the healthcare needs of the local population.