NHIT INSPIRED
This past semester, six graduate students—Adenike, Priyanka, Sai Vineela, Bessy, Sneha, and Gayathri—embarked on a transformative journey as the inaugural class of the NHIT INSPIRED Internship. Launched through a strategic partnership between NHIT and HIMSS, NHIT INSPIRED was designed to prepare emerging leaders with real-world experience, industry connections, and a platform to drive lasting impact in health equity and technology.
Their semester began with a prestigious honor: all six students were awarded scholarships to attend the HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition in Las Vegas, generously supported by Dana Castro at the HIMSS Foundation and Tom Leary, Senior Vice President of HIMSS. In a special unveiling moment, they were publicly introduced as the NHIT INSPIRED inaugural class by Tom — a powerful recognition of their potential and purpose.
At the heart of their internship was a collaborative project focused on addressing one of today’s most pressing public health challenges: the intersection of food insecurity and diabetes in underserved communities. Their work centered on building a sustainable, scalable solution using data, technology, and community-centered approaches. The project culminated in a compelling presentation delivered during the NHIT Reception at HIMSS—an event that showcased not just their findings, but their vision for a more equitable healthcare system.
Beyond the project, the students were given rare and invaluable opportunities to connect with thought leaders and changemakers. In a series of intimate roundtable discussions, they engaged with Dr. Fatima Parukh, Former Congresswoman Donna Christensen, Mark Colon, and Mike Donofrio. These conversations offered personal insights into navigating professional pathways, breaking into the health IT industry, and leading with purpose.
As the semester drew to a close, five of these driven scholars also completed their individual capstone projects and proudly graduated from George Mason University with a Master’s in Health Informatics—a testament to their dedication, talent, and resilience.
The NHIT INSPIRED Internship is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of leaders in health equity and AI innovation. We’re proud of what these trailblazers have accomplished, and we look forward to empowering many more.
Are you ready to INSPIRE?