Photo caption left to right: (L to R): the 2026 Elma Vines Summer Health Academy summer interns (L to R): Sibonginkosi “Charity” Ncube, Kindall Walsh, Nyla Criego, Kamie Taylor (Program Director), Saafir Moore-Muhammad, Thaila Jenkins and Jessica Ojukwu.
Photo caption: (L to R): Dr. Levister, Dr. Osei, Dr. Fenison, Dr. Kingsley, Dr. Harris, E.A. Kamie Taylor and Dr. Nduati. Not pictured: Dr. A.J. Rogers and Carl M. Dameron.
RIVERSIDE, CA – The JW Vines Society announces the Elma Vines Summer Health Academy Banquet on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM. This special event celebrates two decades of excellence in mentoring the next generation of medical professionals through hands-on learning and dedicated interactions with physicians.
For 24 years, the Elma Vines Summer Health Academy has provided exceptional opportunities for college students to gain invaluable experience in the medical field.
To date, 98 students have benefitted from this unique educational experience. 89 are now practicing physicians, while others have advanced their careers as MD/PhD researchers, university faculty members, or in other health-related disciplines. Nearly all participants have entered the healthcare arena in some capacity in the Inland Empire.
The Vines Summer Health Academy is a five-week paid program that allows students to shadow physicians in specialized practices, including surgeons, general practitioners, pediatricians, and other medical professionals. Participants not only observe clinical work but also collaborate with office staff, develop professional relationships, and present weekly findings on their experiences—creating transformative educational moments that shape their medical careers.
This year’s cohort of students has completed their shadowing placements and will share their experiences and insights at the banquet.
Attendees will hear directly from participants about the lessons learned, the doors opened, and the inspiration gained through their participation in Vines Summer Health Academy. Their presentations offer a compelling testament to the program’s impact on aspiring healthcare providers and the medical community as a whole.
Join Us to Support the Next Generation
“We invite physicians, healthcare professionals, business leaders, educators, and community members to join us for an evening of inspiration and celebration,” said JW Vines Foundation President Dr. Michael Nduati.
This is an opportunity to learn about the legacy of JW Vines and the impact of the Elma Vines Summer Health Academy, meet talented young scholars committed to medical careers, and demonstrate your support for future healthcare leaders.
“Your presence and partnership strengthen this vital program and encourage students pursuing excellence in medicine,” said Dr. Nduati.
EVENT DETAILS
Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Canyon Crest Country Club, 975 Country Club Drive, Riverside, CA 92506
For tickets or sponsorship: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-evsha-banquet-tickets-1994888023780?aff=oddtdtcreator#location
Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available. For more information, email contact@vinesmedical.org. The deadline is Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
