Denmark, S.C., June 18, 2025 — Voorhees University is proud to announce a generous donation from Dr. Scott and Laura Stevens to support the 10 White Coat Scholars Initiative housed within the Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation (CERPI).
This transformative gift will directly support Voorhees University students who are aspiring to enter the medical profession through the university’s highly regarded 10 White Coat Scholars Initiative. The program is designed to provide academic, career, and research opportunities to high-achieving, goal-oriented students committed to entering the healthcare field, particularly medicine.
“This extraordinary gift from Dr. and Mrs. Stevens is a strong endorsement of our vision to increase representation in medicine and improve health equity,” said Dr. Zhabiz Golkar, Endowed Professor, founder of the 10 White Coat Scholars Initiative and Director of CERPI. “Their support is helping us build a pipeline of academically excellent, service-minded students who are prepared to lead and transform healthcare systems across the nation.”
Dr. Scott Stevens is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon fellowship-trained in sports medicine. Since 1999, he has served patients in Mankato, Minnesota, and surrounding areas through the Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic. With a specialization in minimally invasive joint repair, sports medicine, and orthopedic trauma care, Dr. Stevens is committed to ensuring the next generation of healthcare professionals receive the opportunities and mentorship needed to thrive.
The 10 White Coat Scholars Initiative emphasizes a multi-step pathway to medical school success, including shadowing at national and international healthcare institutions, research internships, public relations engagement with medical schools, and preparation for critical exams such as the MCAT and DAT. The initiative cultivates core competencies such as creativity, professionalism, teamwork, and academic excellence (GPA 3.5+), aiming to enhance both student readiness and post-graduation visibility.
Voorhees University remains committed to creating innovative opportunities for students through strategic partnerships and philanthropy that align with its mission of advancing educational access, equity, and excellence.
For more information about the 10 White Coat Scholars Initiative, please contact Dr. Zhabiz Golkar at zgolkar@voorhees.edu.