Family medicine doc wants to help students follow in her footsteps, without the debt.
By the time Agueda Hernandez ’92 MD’96 heard about Brown’s College Hill Society, she was already qualified to be a member.
In addition to other forms of giving, Hernandez had included the University in her will, but never officially let the school know. Once she did, she automatically became a Society member.
Hernandez explains why Brown has always been a philanthropic priority for her: “I received financial aid while attending Brown that allowed me to make my childhood dream of becoming a doctor a reality. For that, I am eternally grateful and want to support students so they can live their dream as I do every day.”
As chief medical officer and former residency director at Baptist Health Center for the Advancement of Learning in South Florida, Hernandez knows that studies show anticipated income influences specialty choice and practice setting. Since family medicine yields relatively lower salaries, many students may not choose it.
“Family medicine is rewarding and vital, and we need more primary care physicians to help a growing and aging populace,” she says. “Unfortunately, the six-figure debt students face after medical school can be overwhelming and cause anxiety.”
With her planned gift, Hernandez wants to help offset the financial burdens students face so they can pursue a career in family medicine and practice in underserved settings.
Hernandez credits Brown with influencing her in many ways, and her gift reflects that gratitude. “Brown expanded my world view, molded me as a doctor, gave me opportunity, and even informs my parenting skills,” she says. “In other words, Brown changed my life.”
When asked what advice she would give students today, she says, “I invite you to join the circle and help make Brown a reality for others. #EverTrue.”
