“Shine a Light”: Roseman University’s Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Illuminates Compassion

In a remarkable display of empathy and community engagement, Roseman University College of Medicine’s Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging organized a transformative event on January 12, 2024 working with “Shine a Light,” a local nonprofit that helps hundreds of people living in the underground flood channels of Las Vegas. Organized by the dedicated Dr. Cheryl Brewster, this initiative aimed to make a tangible impact on the lives of Las Vegas’ homeless population by making and serving peanut butter and jelly (PB&J) sandwiches which get distributed each weekend in the tunnels.

On January 12, 2024, the Roseman University community gathered to participate in the “Shine a Light” event. Volunteers came together to create a collaborative assembly line reminiscent of the university’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. The heart of the event was the creation of PB&J sandwiches – a simple yet powerful symbol of nourishment and care. Volunteers worked side by side, spreading peanut butter and jelly on slices of bread with precision and dedication. This hands-on approach mirrored the university’s dedication to excellence and reflected the inclusive values upheld by the Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Following the assembly, the sandwiches were taken to the organization for them to be distributed the next day. This act of service not only provided sustenance but also embodied the principles of respect and humility championed by the Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Each sandwich served was a gesture of kindness, affirming the dignity of every individual.

The community service project stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassionate initiatives designed create a sense of a higher purpose for RUCOM faculty, staff and students led by the Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Roseman University College of Medicine. Dr. Cheryl Brewster’s vision, coupled with the collaborative efforts of volunteers, illuminated the path toward a more compassionate and equitable future. As the sandwiches were shared, the event became a beacon of hope, demonstrating the positive impact that intentional acts of kindness can have on the lives of those facing adversity.