Picture of Office of Communications

Office of Communications

The Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation (CERPI) and Western Atlantic University School of Medicine Establish Transformative Pathway to Medical Education

The Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation (CERPI) at Voorhees University, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Western Atlantic University School of Medicine (WAUSM). This collaboration creates a streamlined pathway for aspiring physicians through the VU 10 White Coat Scholars program.
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishes a conditional admission program that provides high-achieving Voorhees University students with a clear and supported route to pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at WAUSM.

Under this agreement, eligible students and active members of the White Coat Scholars Program will have the opportunity to receive admission to WAUSM, provided they meet defined academic and professional benchmarks. These include completion of a Bachelor of Science degree, maintaining strong academic performance, achieving a minimum MCAT score, and demonstrating professionalism and leadership.

“This partnership represents a significant step forward in expanding access to medical education for our students,” said Dr. Zhabiz Golkar, Founder and Executive Director of CERPI.“ By creating a structured and supportive pathway, we are empowering our scholars to achieve their dreams of becoming physicians while addressing the growing need for diverse healthcare professionals.”

Students in the White Coat Scholars Program will benefit from mentorship, academic support, and early exposure to medical education pathways, ensuring they are well-prepared for the rigorous demands of medical school.

“This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success,” said Dr. Paula Wales, Provost and Chief Operating Officer of WAUSM.” WAUSM delivers an innovative, student‑centered model of medical education demonstrated by exceptional performance outcomes. The university’s quality is reflected by a 100% match rate for its first group of students entering the 2026 residency placement cycle through the US National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) and the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS). WAUSM students benefit from early career advising and personalized support at every stage of their medical school journey. We are excited to welcome talented and driven students from Voorhees University into our medical program.”

For more information, please contact Dr. Zhabiz Golkar at zgolkar@voorhees.edu or zgolkar@voorheescerpi.org.

###

About Voorhees University:  Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Driven by a mission to cultivate well-rounded graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. Voorhees University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. More details are available at the Voorhees website (www.voorhees.edu). Questions about the accreditation of Voorhees University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org)

Scroll to Top