SNMA National Leadership Institute September 2023

The Mental Health Equity Program (MHEP) hosted the Student National Medical Association’s (SNMA) National Leadership Institute (NLI) on September 22-24, 2023, held on the UNC medical school campus.  

There were 75 student attendees, which included pre-medical and medical students from around the country. Content was provided by 52 speakers and facilitators, who included medical students, residents, faculty, alumni, and community organizations.  

This year’s conference was focused on the student experience. Programming included workshops dedicated to further developing leadership skills, promoting academic excellence and scholarship, and instilling the importance of wellness and mental well-being, which included “The Mentally-Well Student Activity Fair.”  

Attendees had the opportunity to join UNC Psychiatry faculty in developing skills that prioritized the student’s overall wellness while fostering a supportive community. Students engaged in activities such as chair massages with relaxation techniques, DIY aromatherapy, contributing to a gratitude wall, participating in arts and games, and a meditation session.