President Neil MacKinnon brings vision for health care and equity to Central Michigan University’s College of Medicine

Central Michigan University’s President Neil MacKinnon emphasized his commitment to advancing medical education and rural health equity during a visit to the university’s College of Medicine campus in Saginaw.  Known for his extensive background in health care leadership and his dedication to underserved communities, MacKinnon’s visit reinforced CMU’s mission to address critical health care needs throughout the state.

MacKinnon has decades of experience in health care policy, rural health advocacy and public health administration.  During his time at the Saginaw campus, he engaged with medical students, faculty and leadership to discuss strategies for educating the next generation of physicians.  MacKinnon also toured the state-of-the-art simulation center and heard about the work the College does to train medical students, residents and health care professionals across the region.

“Central Michigan University’s College of Medicine plays a crucial role in preparing students to provide outstanding medical care and address health disparities with a focus on rural regions and other underserved communities, where access to quality care is a growing challenge,” MacKinnon said.  “Through community-based education, the College is creating innovative and collaborative solutions to improve health equity in Michigan and beyond.”

The College of Medicine was established in 2010 with the mission to educate physicians who are committed to serving in rural and underserved communities.  The Saginaw campus is a vital hub for the College’s clinical training programs, providing students with access to hands-on experience in hospital settings and community clinics. As CMU continues to prioritize medical education, MacKinnon aims to elevate the university’s role as a leader in addressing health disparities and improving the delivery of care.  

“President MacKinnon’s insights into rural health equity resonate deeply with our mission,” said George Kikano, M.D., executive vice president of health affairs for CMU and dean of the College of Medicine.  “His leadership will strengthen our efforts to recruit students from diverse backgrounds and expand our impact in Michigan’s underserved areas.”