At the Institute for the Advancement of Community Health (IACH), those big questions are part of our daily work. We envision collective wellness for our community through transformative initiatives that elevate health for all.
To do this, we focus on three priorities:
We are committed to enriching student learning through immersive internships and practical experiences that equip them with essential skills and insights into community health.
We prioritize collaborative research efforts that involve community members and stakeholders as research partners in identifying and addressing social challenges.
We work to elevate the conversation around community health, fostering awareness and engagement through public discussions, educational initiatives and advocacy efforts.
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40%Furman students pursuing careers in health
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225high-impact student learning internships available in health-related fields
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1,000+Students involved in health internships since 2016
Center for Education
This center champions high-impact student experiences and lifelong learning. We offer transformative educational programs, internships, and professional development opportunities that equip students at all stages with the skills, knowledge, and passion to lead in addressing social drivers of health. By nurturing the next generation of leaders, we ensure a continued focus on innovation and excellence in our field.
Center for Community Action
This center focuses on translating our research and insights into tangible community initiatives. By working directly with local organizations and stakeholders, we co-design and evaluate interventions that address pressing social drivers of health. Our efforts in this center emphasize practical, community-driven solutions and foster partnerships that drive meaningful change.
Center for Community Health Conversations
This center is dedicated to fostering dialogue and engagement around key health issues. Through public forums, workshops and collaborative discussions, we engage students, community members, professionals and policymakers in meaningful conversations about health challenges and opportunities.
Support IACH
Your gift supports and ensures the IACH has the operating resources to facilitate high impact student experiences, conduct community engaged research, and champion key community programs, furthering our commitment to health equity, justice and diversity.
News and Events
IACH Announces Its 2025-2026 Calendar of Community Events
The Institute for the Advancement of Community Health is pleased to announce its 2025–2026 calendar of public events, including the return of the popular Community Health Conversations series and the annual Building Brighter Tomorrows conference....
Continue Reading >Make an impact in 2025: Apply for these summer opportunities with IACH
Are you a student passionate about making a real impact in community health? This summer, take your learning beyond the classroom with a 2025 IACH Community Health Fellowship or Internship — hands-on opportunities to work alongside professionals...
Continue Reading >A Riley Diversity Leaders Initiative group puts little libraries in salon, barber shop
IACH Executive Director Dr. Kerry Sease is part of a team that helped to set up cozy reading spaces for children as part of the Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI) program of the Riley Institute at...
Continue Reading >