Welcome to the latest AHEC Newsletter with valuable health and education information!

Welcome to the Spring 2026 South Texas AHEC Newsletter 

Recent Successes | Future Events | Learning Opportunities | Health News

Recent Successes

Follow South Texas AHEC on Facebook @STAHEC
 

Making an Impact! New CHWs Creating Capacity Building Plans

Twenty-eight new CHWs met at Impacto on February 9, 2026 to develop their Individual Capacity Building Plans. The Active CHW Group is identifying their preferred population to work with, topics of interest, skills and time commitments to effectively and efficiently align their passions and interests with the programs and needs of the communities they serve.
 

South Texas AHEC presents Project ECHO 2026 Colorectal Cancer Sessions

Did you miss our Colorectal Cancer ECHO sessions? Registration closed when the sessions began, but you can still watch the series. Session 1 - Screening and Early Detection, Session 2 - Early Onset, and Session 4 - Clinical Roles are all available to view on our YouTube channel. Additional sessions will be added as they are available. Check out the playlist here! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHB6IqXlpYby0TggXSZqBU9hzqPjHADdl&si=tMPCUtE6DuzkuWWt and subscribe to our channel and give us a like to make sure you do not miss any future content.

Follow Southwest Border AHEC on Facebook @SWBAHEC
 

PEACHES - Comprender el Papel del Promotor de Salud

On January 21, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) hosted a Promotoras En Acción (P.E.A.C.H.E.S.) session in Eagle Pass focused on the role Community Health Workers (CHWs) play in improving the health of the community.  During the session, participants learned more about the work CHWs do to support individuals and families through health education, outreach, and connecting people to important services and resources. The discussion also highlighted how CHWs serve as trusted members of the community who help bridge the gap between health systems and the people they serve. The session provided a space for participants to better understand the impact CHWs have at the community level and the important role they play in promoting prevention, improving access to care, and supporting healthier communities across the region. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Breast & Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS) Tarde De Loteria

In partnership with Maverick County Hospital District, Southwest Border AHEC hosted a Cervical Cancer Awareness event focused on education, prevention, and available screening resources for the community. Southwest Border AHEC supported outreach efforts and shared important information on cervical cancer prevention and early detection. Community members were encouraged to attend, learn, and connect with local health resources in a welcoming and supportive environment. The event welcomed over 200 attendees from across the community.For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Jornada de Salud (Community Health Fair) - Consulado de Mexico Del Rio

In partnership with the Consulado de México in Del Rio, Southwest Border AHEC cohosted a Jornada de Salud on February 3, 2026. The event focused on preventive care and provided community members with access to free health screenings and educational resources. Community members stopped by to take advantage of these free services and learn more about ways to support their overall health and well-being. A total of 60 individuals were screened during the event. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

 
PEAAKS Session Focuses on Financial Literacy for Students

Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) hosted a PEAAKS session titled "Money Moves: Build Smart Habits Now" on February 4, 2026, at Southwest Texas College in Eagle Pass. The session featured guest speaker Joe Cruz, Community Engagement Officer with Border Federal Credit Union.  During the session, Mr. Cruz shared practical information on budgeting, saving, and making smart financial decisions. He discussed strategies students can use to manage their money responsibly and build strong financial habits early in life. The session also highlighted the importance of financial literacy as an important life skill that supports long-term personal and professional success.  More than 25 high school students attended the session, where they had the opportunity to learn practical financial skills, ask questions, and engage in discussion about managing money and planning for their future. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu
 

Ama Tu Corazon. Dia de la Salud

In collaboration with the Consulado de México in Eagle Pass, Southwest Border AHEC participated in Ama Tu Corazón. Did de la Salud, a free community health event. Community members stopped by for free blood pressure and blood glucose screenings and learned more about ways to care for their heart health through regular monitoring and early prevention. A total of 30 individuals were screened during the event. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Southwest Texas College Transfer & Career Fairs - (Eagle Pass, Uvalde, and Del Rio)

During the month of February, the Southwest Border Area Health Education Center participated in Southwest Texas College's Spring 2026 Career and Transfer Day events across its Eagle Pass, Uvalde, and Del Rio campuses. These events provided students with an opportunity to explore transfer pathways to four-year universities and learn more about the steps involved in continuing their education. Students connected with college and university representatives, attended informational workshops, and received guidance on degree programs, application processes, and scholarship opportunities. Career and Transfer Day offered a valuable setting for students to gather information and make informed decisions about their next academic steps. Across the events, more than 200 students attended and engaged with participating institutions and organizations. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Southwest Border AHEC Participates in Eagle Pass High School CTE Day

Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) participated in Eagle Pass High School's Career and Technical Education (CTE) Day, held on February 10-11. The event brought together students and community organizations to highlight career pathways connected to the Human Services field.  Southwest Border AHEC was invited to participate as part of the Human Services booth area, where we had the opportunity to speak with students about careers in health and community service. Throughout the event, students stopped by our table to learn more about the work AHEC does in the region and the many ways they can pursue careers that support the health of their communities.  More than 200 students attended the event, making it a great opportunity to connect with students and introduce them to different pathways in health and human services. Events like this play an important role in helping students explore career options and begin thinking about how they can make a difference in their communities. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Ama Tu Corazon - Del Rio

On February 10, 2026, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC), in collaboration with the Consulado de México in Del Rio, hosted a community health event focused on prevention and access to basic health services for residents in the Del Rio area.  The event provided community members with the opportunity to receive free health screenings and learn more about the importance of routine monitoring and preventive care. Southwest Border AHEC staff worked alongside partners to share information on maintaining good health and connecting community members with available resources.  During the event, over 30 community members received health screenings, helping increase awareness of personal health indicators and encouraging individuals to take proactive steps toward improving their overall health and well-being. The event also served as an opportunity to strengthen community partnerships and continue promoting health education across the region. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Supporting Community Helpers: Compassion Fatigue and Burnout Session

On February 18, 2026, Southwest Border AHEC presented an educational session on compassion fatigue and burnout for community members in Eagle Pass, Texas. The event was held in collaboration with Serving Children and Adults in Need (SCAN), an organization dedicated to reducing child abuse and neglect by addressing risk factors and strengthening protective factors through community collaboration. The session provided participants with information on compassion fatigue and burnout, along with practical strategies to support personal well-being and resilience for those who serve the community. A total of 32 individuals attended the session, For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Promotoras En Acción (PEACHES) - Corazon Saludable
 

On February 25, 2026, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center hosted its monthly Promotoras En Acción (P.E.A.C.H.E.S.) session. The session, titled Corazón Saludable, focused on heart health, prevention, and everyday strategies to support cardiovascular wellness. It provided community health worker learners with practical, easy-to-understand information on healthy habits, risk factors, and lifestyle choices that contribute to heart health. Participants engaged in discussion, asked questions, and explored ways to apply heart-healthy practices in their daily lives, with an emphasis on prevention and long-term well-being within the community. A total of eight participants attended the session. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Southwest Border AHEC Welcomes Dr. Bluhm to Eagle Pass

On February 26, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) was honored to welcome Program Director Dr. Danet Bluhm for a visit to Eagle Pass. The visit provided an opportunity to highlight the work taking place across the region and to strengthen relationships with the many partners who support AHEC's mission of improving community health and expanding the health workforce pipeline.  During her visit, Dr. Bluhm met and engaged with Southwest Border AHEC board members, key community partners, community leaders, AHEC Scholars, Community Health Workers (CHWs), community members, and state representatives. These conversations allowed participants to share ongoing efforts, discuss community needs, and highlight the impact of programs focused on health education, workforce development, and community outreach.  The visit was a meaningful opportunity to showcase the strong partnerships that support Southwest Border AHEC and reaffirm a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and expanding pathways into health careers across the border region. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

MCHD Cervical Cancer Awareness Lotería Event

On January 27, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) partnered with Maverick County Hospital District (MCHD) to support a Cervical Cancer Awareness event in Eagle Pass. The event focused on increasing awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of prevention and early detection within the community.  The event featured a Lotería-style educational activity, which provided a fun and engaging way to share important health information. As participants played the game, they learned about cervical cancer risk factors, the importance of regular screenings, and steps individuals can take to protect their health.  The event created a welcoming space for community members to learn, ask questions, and connect with local health resources. Activities like this help make health education more accessible while encouraging important conversations about prevention and women's health in the community. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Southwest Texas College Health Fair

Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) participated in the Southwest Texas College Health Fair, an event focused on promoting student health and wellness while also introducing students to careers in the health field. The fair provided students with an opportunity to learn about health resources, prevention, and ways to support their overall well-being.  Southwest Border AHEC shared information about its programs and initiatives that support students interested in health careers and community-based health work. AHEC Scholars also participated in the event and played an important role in engaging with students and helping share information about the program and its impact.  The event welcomed over 60 students, and the involvement of AHEC Scholars helped make the event a success by encouraging peer-to-peer engagement and helping students learn more about both personal health and opportunities in the health professions. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

PEAAKS March Session
Exploring Nutrition: A Day in the Life of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist 

Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) hosted its March PEAAKS session titled "Exploring Nutrition: A Day in the Life of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist" on March 4, 2026, at Southwest Texas College in Eagle Pass. The session featured guest speaker Manrique Fuentes, RDN, a native of Eagle Pass and licensed dietitian with experience in medical nutrition therapy and diabetes self-management.  During the session, Mr. Fuentes shared insights into his educational journey, the training required to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, and the day-to-day responsibilities of working in the nutrition field. He also discussed how nutrition professionals play an important role in improving community health, particularly in addressing conditions such as diabetes and other chronic diseases.  More than 20 students attended the session, where they had the opportunity to learn about career pathways in nutrition, ask questions, and hear firsthand about the experiences of a local health professional serving the community. The session provided students with valuable exposure to the field of nutrition and helped highlight the important role dietitians play in promoting healthier communities. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Follow Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC on Facebook @AreaHealthEducationCenter
 

Mental Health Awareness Seminar

On Friday, February 6, 2026, The Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC hosted a virtual Mental Health Awareness Seminar focused on the topic "Self-Care Before 'I Care': Mental Health & Dating." The seminar, led by guest speaker Jessica Resendez from Chanderbhan Psychological Services, provided participants with practical strategies to support emotional well-being and healthy relationships. The event encouraged open dialogue, self-reflection, and education while offering attendees a valuable knowledge contact hour. For more information contact the AHEC Office at 956-712-0037

Draw The Line A Fun Workshop for 6 graders

On Friday, February 20, 2026, Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC successfully hosted the Draw the Line workshop for 6th graders at the AHEC office in Laredo. The interactive session engaged students in meaningful discussions about healthy boundaries, confident decision-making, and positive choices. Participants actively took part in activities, earned community service hours, and enjoyed lunch provided during the event. The workshop created a supportive space for learning, empowerment, and growth, leaving students with valuable skills they can carry forward. Some students immediately began to use the  skills learned to Draw The Line! For more information contact the AHEC Office at 956-712-0037

988 You Are Not Alolne Rally

The Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC continues to play a vital role in supporting the community by hosting and participating in the 988 Rally. AHEC aims to bridge gaps in mental health awareness by educating the community, reducing stigma, and connecting individuals to mental health resources. These efforts strengthen community resilience, promote early intervention, and ensure that residents know support is available when they need it most. MRGB AHEC proudly supports this year-long initiative. For more information contact the AHEC Office at 956-712-0037

Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC

UTSA HCAP Involvement Fair

South Central AHEC had a wonderful opportunity to represent the South Central Area Health Education Center (AHEC) at the University of Texas at San Antonio's College of Health, Community, and Policy (HCAP) Involvement Fair on February 3, 2026. Our team connected with numerous students who are exploring internship opportunities, sharing information about everything South Central AHEC has to offer - from hands-on experience and professional knowledge to our mission of building a stronger, more diverse health workforce. We also took the opportunity to inform students about upcoming events and provided important information on HPV vaccines and prevention. The fair was a great success, and we look forward to welcoming the next generation of health professionals into the AHEC family! For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at, GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

Health Professions Preview Day: Exploring Dentistry

On Saturday, February 7, 2026, the School of Dentistry at UT San Antonio hosted an exciting Health Professions Preview Day at The Neighborhood Place, and it was a resounding success! Middle and high school students from grades 7-12 gathered to get an up-close look at the world of dentistry - and they loved every minute of it. Students had the opportunity to learn about dental careers and what the journey through dental school truly looks like. One of the most memorable moments of the event was a hands-on moulding activity, where students created a mould of their own finger - just like dentists do when taking impressions of their patients' teeth! Students also gained valuable insight into the dental school application process, learning exactly what steps to take to pursue their dream of becoming a dentist. It was an inspiring afternoon that left young minds buzzing with excitement about the future of their health professions journey. For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at  GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

Girls Inc. Rock It Into the Future Science Festival

South Central AHEC was thrilled to be a part of the Girls Inc. Rock It Into the Future Science Festival! The event was a fantastic celebration of science, featuring a wide variety of hands-on activities that inspired and engaged young attendees. Our team connected with participants to discuss the importance of asthma awareness and management, and introduced the children to the exciting world of medical careers and the many roles available in the health field. It was a wonderful opportunity to spark curiosity and encourage the next generation of future health professionals. The festival was a great success, and we were honored to be a part of such an empowering event!  For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

Soy Latina x UT Health San Antonio - A Day of Empowerment 💜

Soy Latina, a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring young Latinas by connecting high school girls with inspiring community leaders, recently hosted an empowering event full of growth, creativity, and community. The girls were welcomed with open arms and treated to an incredible afternoon focused on mental health and well-being. Representatives from UT Health NOW Clinic shared how their services - including counseling, therapy, peer support, and crisis care - are making behavioral health accessible to all Bexar County residents. UT Health VIVA Teens led an interactive session on coping skills, where the girls assembled their very own anxiety coping bags filled with goodies, breathing reminder stickers, and personal touches to help them navigate life's challenges. The girls also had the chance to unleash their creativity and ambition through vision board sessions with South Central AHEC and to hear directly from a UT Health ReACH psychiatrist, who spoke candidly about mental health. It was an afternoon that built confidence, celebrated culture, and reminded every young Latina in the room that their well-being matters. 💜  For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at  GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

Aging Conference: Heart to Heart - Owning Your Heart Health

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, our Aging Well Conference was a tremendous success! Community members gathered at Family Service Neighborhood Place for an engaging and informative morning focused on heart health. The event featured vendors sharing valuable community resources, along with an insightful presentation by special guest speaker Dr. Shreya Rao, whose expertise in cardiovascular health disparities resonated deeply with attendees. The fun didn't stop there - guests enjoyed lively rounds of bingo and exciting door prize raffles that kept the energy high throughout the event. The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees expressing just how much they loved the experience. We are grateful to everyone who joined us and made this event such a memorable occasion! For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at  GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

The Texas Substance Use Symposium (TxSUS)

South Central AHEC at the Texas Substance Use Symposium (TxSUS)    South Central AHEC had a great time attending the Texas Substance Use Symposium (TxSUS)! This annual conference brings together hundreds of dedicated professionals from healthcare, behavioral health, recovery, and public safety sectors, all working toward reducing the impact of substance use across Texas. The event featured national experts, interactive sessions, and compelling research presentations that left attendees equipped with new tools and fresh perspectives. Our team had a wonderful time connecting with public health professionals from across the state, sharing information about our 4-hour Continuing Medical Education (CME) opportunity, and giving away some goodies along the way. It was an inspiring and productive event, and we look forward to continuing to build meaningful connections that help drive positive change across our communities. For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at  GomezA6@uthscsa.edu 

Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC

South Coastal CHW Association
  

In February, the monthly CHW Association meeting was hosted by The Purple Door. For this meeting, association members donated to The Purple Door Resale shop. The Resale shop uses 100% of its profit to sustain the organization's mission. During this meeting, members received 1 hour of DSHS-approved CEUs on hypertension. Afterwards, free blood pressure checks were offered. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133
 

Orange Grove Food Bank

Every third Saturday of the month, South Coastal AHEC organizes a mobile food distribution in Orange Grove. On average, over 100 families are provided with nutritious food. Community volunteers, AHEC Scholars, and South Coastal AHEC staff  come together with the Coastal Bend Food Bank to make this happen for this rural community. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

Heart of the South: Cardiac symposium

"The Heart of the South: Cardiovascular Innovations Conference was a remarkable success.  Hosted by Corpus Christi Medical Center in partnership with the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the conference highlighted the strength of collaboration between healthcare and academia.  Friday evening featured an inspiring keynote from Dr. David S. Jones of Harvard Medical School - a nationally recognized physician, historian, and scholar whose work on health inequities, medical decision-making, and the culture of medicine has helped shape conversations about the future of healthcare in the United States.  Saturday's program brought together a distinguished, multidisciplinary faculty of nationally respected medical professionals from across cardiovascular and related specialties, reflecting the depth of expertise and collaboration driving innovation in patient care today." - Texas A&M University CC College of Nursing & Health Science  For more information, contact Scott Krall at 361-881-8133.

Follow Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC on Facebook at @lrgv.ahec
 

CHW Ambassador's Training on Diabetes Prevention and Awareness

New Horizon Health Center recently hosted the Unidos Contra la Diabetes (UCD) CHW Ambassador's training on Diabetes Prevention and Awareness, in partnership with the Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC, CHW Training Center on February 18, 2026. We are pleased to share that the participating Community Health Workers (CHWs) earned 3 Certified DSHS CE Hours through this program. For more information, contact Juana Escareño at escareno@uthscsa.edu

Future Events & Learning Opportunities

Follow South Texas AHEC
on Facebook @STAHEC
on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/st_ahec/
on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@thesouthtexasahecprogramsc688

Visit us at our website:https://stahec.uthscsa.edu/
 

Parenting Teenagers Lunch and Learn

Registration has begun for the next South Texas AHEC Lunch and Learn Series: Parenting Teenagers. Sessions are held on select Mondays from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. Beginning on Monday, April 13, zoom sessions will be held over topics such as building healthy relationships, teen development, communication, and many more. CEs are available for CHWs, Nurses, and Social Workers. Certificates of attendance are also available. Registration closes on April 12, 2026, so register now at https://redcap.uthscsa.edu/REDCap/surveys/?s=EXN9LLF7PDE9KT8L  For more information, contact Joe Zapata at ZapataJ@uthscsa.edu. 

Save the Date! South Texas AHEC Project ECHO 2026

Don't miss the informative and educational sessions coming up in 2026. Learn about Teen Parenting Skills and Family Health in Spring, Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Summer, and Mental Health and Resilience in Communities in the Fall. Keep an eye on our newsletter, website, and Facebook for information on registration and topics. For more information, contact Joe Zapata at ZapataJ@uthscsa.edu. 

Follow Southwest Border AHEC
on Facebook @SWBAHEC
on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/swbahec/
on YouTube www.youtube.com/@southwestborderahec3138

Visit them at their website: https://www.swb-ahec.org/

Upcoming Student Health Career Exploration Trip

April 6, 2026
 Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC) is coordinating an upcoming trip to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC) for a group of Eagle Pass high school students interested in pursuing careers in the health professions. The visit is planned for April 6 and will give students an opportunity to explore academic pathways in health and nursing. During the visit, students will tour the Nursing and Health Sciences Building and spend time with faculty and current students to learn more about the programs offered at TAMUCC. The trip will also provide students with the opportunity to learn about campus life and the steps involved in preparing for a career in the health field. Students will also visit the South Coastal AHEC office, where they will learn more about the work AHEC programs do to support health workforce development and community health across the region. The trip is intended to help students better understand the educational pathways available to them and encourage them to begin planning for careers that support the health of their communities. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Follow Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC
on Facebook @AreaHealthEducationCenter
on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mrgbahec/

Visit them at their website: https://midriograndeborderahec.org/

AHEC Health Careers Expo 2026

Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm
Laredo Medical Center, 1700 E Saunders St, Laredo, TX 78041
Register here: https://forms.gle/qxPpGAJsYqEDgvFJ8

The Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC is hosting the AHEC Health Careers Expo 2026  for High School Students, on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Laredo Medical Center, Tower B, First Floor Community Center Room. This free, immersive event is designed to empower high school students by exposing them to a wide range of healthcare careers through hands-on enrichment demonstrations and direct interaction with healthcare professionals. Students will gain early career awareness, learn about educational pathways, and build confidence by asking questions and seeing real-world applications of healthcare roles. The Expo also helps students make informed decisions about their future by connecting classroom learning to practical experiences, encouraging academic motivation, and fostering interest in high-demand health professions. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, and space is limited; advance RSVP is required to participate. For more information, contact the AHEC Office at 956 712 0037

Follow South Central AHEC
on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC 
on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/southcentraltexasahec

visit their website at: https://www.southcentralahectx.org/

Free CME Opportunity: Safe and Effective Pain Care 💊

Are you looking to sharpen your approach to pain management? Pri-Med Institute is offering a free, self-paced 4-hour virtual course - Safe and Effective Pain Care: A Comprehensive Guide for Opioid Prescribing in Primary Care- designed to give healthcare professionals greater clarity and confidence in pain assessment, treatment planning, and patient support. The course covers everything from identifying opioid misuse risk factors and evidence-based non-opioid treatment strategies to counseling patients on the safe use, storage, and disposal of opioid analgesics. While especially valuable for prescribing providers, this course is relevant to all members of the healthcare team. Upon completion, participants can earn 4 AMA PRA Credits, 4 AANP Contact Hours, and 3 AANP Pharmacology Hours. To learn more and register, visit Pri-Med Institute or contact gomeza6@uthscsa.edu.
 

From Symptoms to Referral: Navigating Lupus Care in Rural Practice

March 25, 2026 from 4:00PM to 5:00PM ET  (3:00-4:00PM CT)
https://www.nationalahec.org/events/register.aspx?id=2039565&itemid=6635b968-e37e-4a52-9571-d36e0b4fb793

Don't miss this free, one-hour virtual session on March 25, 2026 from 4-5pm ET, presented by renowned rheumatologist Dr. Rosalind Ramsey-Goldman, MD, DrPH - John P. Gallagher Research Professor of Rheumatology at Northwestern University and an NIH-funded investigator with over 38 years of lupus research experience. From Symptoms to Referral: Navigating Lupus Care in Rural Practice is designed to equip healthcare providers with the tools to confidently recognize lupus symptoms, strengthen differential diagnosis, make informed referral decisions, and apply the latest 2026 ACR guidelines. Whether you're in a rural setting or simply looking to deepen your lupus care knowledge, this session is not one to miss. Register today at www.nationalahec.org.

2026 Public Health Camp

June 22 through 26, 2026
UT HEALTH SAN ANTONIO LONG SCHOOL OF MEDICINE CAMPUS
7703 FLOYD DR. SAN ANTONIO, TX 78229
Register here: https://redcap.uthscsa.edu/REDCap/surveys/?s=CXPEKFTX48WF8PWH 

Get ready to explore your future in public health! 🌎✨ The 2026 Public Health Camp at UT Health San Antonio is now accepting applications for rising 11th & 12th graders! Join us June 22-26, 2026 for a FREE, week-long experience packed with interactive workshops 🧪, exciting field trips 🚌, and hands-on activities that introduce you to dynamic careers in public health 🩺📊. Lunch and snacks are included 🍎🥪. Space is limited - apply today and take the first step toward making a difference! 💙 For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA6@uthscsa.edu 

The Back to School Health & Wellness Fair


Saturday August 8, 2026 from 11:00AM to 2:00PM
St. Martin de Porres Church, 1730 Dahlgreen Ave., San Antonio, TX 78237

This free, family-friendly event is designed to help students and families start the school year healthy and prepared. Attendees can receive free vaccines, health screenings, and backpacks filled with school supplies, along with valuable health information and the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with a doctor and psychologist. With activities for kids, face painting, door prizes, and community resources all in one place, this event reflects our commitment to supporting the well-being of families across San Antonio. For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA6@uthscsa.edu 

Follow South Coastal AHEC
on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC
on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/south_coastal_ahec/

Visit them at their website:https://www.southcoastalahec.org/
 

South Coastal CHW Association Meeting

    March 17, 2026 from 5:30 to 7:30PM
RSVP here: https://forms.office.com/r/YxWGtQrD19

Every third Tuesday of the month, Community Health Workers meet to discuss upcoming events, obtain CEUs, and discuss important changes happening with the State. In March the meeting will be held at the South Coastal AHEC office and hosted by Driscoll Health Plan. Other organizations are encouraged to host a meeting and use the time to inform the community on their programs, eligibility requirements, and ways we can help. For more information contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

Orange Grove Food Distribution

    March 21, 2026 from 7:00am to 10:30am
El Buen Pastor Church 308 Voelkel Ave, Orange Grove, TX 78373

South Coastal AHEC will be heading to Orange Grove to organize the monthly food distribution. This distribution helps those in need and serves about 100 families. Local organizations are encouraged to come out and offer their low to no-cost services. If your team is interested, please reach out for more information! Contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

ALSO Instructor Course

    March 26. 2026

An Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics Instructor Course will be offered March 26th, 2026, at the South Coastal AHEC office. This course is $800, and registration can be found at https://www.southcoastalahec.org/ For more information, please contact the center director  Bel Flores, at floresb3@uthscsa.edu  or by phone at 361-881-8133
 

Conscious Collaborations


May 1, 2026
Portland Community Center, 2000 Billy G. Webb Dr, Portland, TX 78374

Family Counseling Service will be hosting its annual Mental Health Conference, Conscious Collaborations. This is a One Day Trauma Informed conference for professionals and community leaders. South Coastal AHEC will be providing up to 5.5 hours of continuing education for this conference. For more information, contact Scott Krall at 361-881-8133
 

Medicine Nursing Pharmacy 11th CE- Quarterly

May 20, 2026 from 5:00PM to 9:30PM
Omni Hotel, 900 North Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX

Del Mar College, Coastal Bend Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and South Coastal AHEC are collaborating for the 11th Annual Medicine Nursing Pharmacy CE-Quarterly. Topics will include Therapeutic Modalities in Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Preventing Stroke & Dementia, and an update on management of Lung Nodules. For more information contact Dr. Krall at 361-881-8133

Nueces County Annual Sports Physicals

Each year in May, South Coastal AHEC kicks off Health Fair season. Through collaboration with all four Nueces County Commissioners, CHRISTUS Spohn Residency Programs, and the local ISDs, South Coastal AHEC provides a no-cost, UIL-approved sports physical to any child who attends. For more information contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

Follow Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC on Facebook at @lrgv.ahec

Visit them at their website: www.lrgvahec.com
 

Join the QUITXT Study!


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"Are you between 18-29 and interested in quitting smoking? Join the Quitxt Study today!" Quitxt is a 6-month, bilingual text-messaging program designed to help Latino young adults quit smoking. 100% Remote - Fast - Easy - Flexible  Earn $20 per activity - up to $140. Your Story. Your Future. Your Health. For more information contact Juana Escareño at escareno@uthscsa.edu

Attention Health Profession Students! The AHEC Scholars Program is Recruiting!

This program is an opportunity for health profession students, of all disciplines, to participate in interprofessional education (IPE) healthcare activities. The duration of the program is 1-2 years (depending on discipline), runs concurrently with a student’s academic curriculum, and concludes when the student graduates from their respective health profession program. In addition to educational and professional enrichment, the AHEC Scholars Program offers a $500 stipend, per year in the program, to help offset student costs. If you are interested in applying please click here. The AHEC Scholars Program is explained in greater detail at https://stahec.uthscsa.edu/ahec-scholars. Alternatively, please contact Roni Vela by e-mail at velav4@uthscsa.edu or phone at 361-881-8133, for more information. 

Please note: We are unable to accept pre-health profession students at this time.

Partner Announcements and Health News

South Texas Area Health Education Center Program Office
  UT Health - San Antonio
7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, TX 78229 | 210-567-0482

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