DENMARK, SC, – Two student health ambassadors from Voorhees University recently completed a specialized internship through the Black AIDS Institute (BAI), gaining valuable public health knowledge and experience focused on HIV awareness and its impact on African American communities.
Mr. Jaydon Robinson and Mr. Dahjmere Reddick, both members of the University’s HBCU Health Initiative, participated in a six-week paid virtual Black AIDS Institute internship from March through May 2026. This internship was made possible through a partnership with Special Health Resources, a nonprofit organization that provides community clinics and HIV/STD prevention programs. While continuing their work as student health ambassadors on additional health-related initiatives, the students also represented Voorhees University through the BAI program.
During the internship, students explored epidemiological practices used in HIV research and surveillance, the continuum of care for individuals living with HIV, and the social and health disparities affecting vulnerable communities. The experience also provided students with a deeper understanding of HIV transmission, prevention, education, and the importance of reducing stigma.
To participate in the internship, both students completed public health coursework and BAI HIV/AIDS course modules designed and developed by Dr. Kendall Williams, HBCU Health Discovery Strategist with the Rural Community Development Institute, who also managed the internship experience.
“This opportunity to learn more about the devastating effects of HIV on the African American community is a vital step toward a more inclusive understanding of just how negatively impactful this disease has been on the black community,” said Dr. Williams. “From this internship, these students will be equipped with a chance to educate and improve the health outcomes of individuals living with HIV in their communities.”
Although the internship was conducted virtually, students described the experience as highly engaging and comparable to hands-on healthcare training experiences.
“My internship experience has opened my eyes to how deeply HIV continues to impact the African American community,” said Mr. Reddick. “It helped me better understand the importance of education, testing, and breaking stigma to create healthier and more informed communities.”
Mr. Robinson added, “My virtual internship experience has helped me better understand the impact HIV continues to have within the African American community, especially regarding education, access to resources, and stigma. It has shown me the importance of community outreach, awareness, and culturally informed healthcare in creating meaningful change and improving health outcomes.”
The internship reflects Voorhees University’s continued commitment to health equity, student leadership, and community engagement through experiential learning opportunities that prepare students to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
For more information, please contact Dr. Kendall Williams at kwilliams@voorhees.edu.