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History and Future

The Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities began in 2008. For its role in helping to shoulder this effort, the Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities here recognizes and sincerely thanks an anonymous bequest that recently solidified the financial capacity necessary for the CBMH to continue its work in perpetuity. Bioethical and humanities contributions at the CBMH overlap, with all represented disciplines helping to contribute perspectives important in grappling with ethical dilemmas and the impact of social determinants known to adversely influence the health and wellbeing of Mississippi's families and communities.

To date, the CBMH has largely focused its efforts on educational programming and partnerships. For example, the CBMH has partnered with Entergy Corp. to provide students and others on track to join the Mississippi health care work force with a better understanding of stressors that impact health within many Mississippi families. The CBMH Poverty Simulation explores the stress occasioned and decision-making required when income does not cover basic expenses, such as housing, food, transportation, health care, and school, childcare or eldercare.

In addition, the CBMH has partnered with the Mississippi Humanities Council, community food advocates, nutritional experts, and community colleges and libraries throughout the state to address inadequate nutrition, obesity, and their impact on health. The resultant Food: For Thought, For Life project brought vivid, colorful and highly informative displays to every region of the state.