Four decades after its official recognition by the US government in 1976, Black History Month continues to hold importance in communities today, serving as a space for reflection and remembrance. To honor this history, several members of the UCR School of Medicine community shared their perspectives on what this month means to them now in 2026 and how it impacts the concepts of medicine, equity, and the future of healthcare. What does Black History Month mean to you in 2026, and why does it particularly matter today?

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More than 200 students, faculty, staff and guests attended a thought-provoking keynote lecture by Gabrielle Pina, DO, FAAP, titled “I Have a Dream… Deferred” on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 as part of the UCR School of Medicine’s celebration of Black History Month. The event was held in partnership with UCR African Student Programs and sponsored by the School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Photos from the event can be found here.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. February is American Heart Month, established in 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson to encourage Americans to prioritize and protect their heart health.

When UC Riverside medical student Jonathan Ogbogu recently received a $10,000 external scholarship, the UCR School of Medicine featured the story on the SOM News website and shared the announcement on social media.

The UCR School of Medicine presented awards to faculty and staff during its Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. In total, six people received awards, which included values in action, the staff diversity, equity, and inclusion award, and clinical faculty awards. Award presenters included: