
Interfaith America has launched a groundbreaking three-year initiative, supported by a $3.2 million grant from the John Templeton Foundation, to integrate interfaith competencies into health professions education. This effort, known as the Faith in Health Professions program, aims to equip healthcare professionals with the skills needed to navigate religious diversity in patient care, recognizing religion as a key social determinant of health. ASPPH is proud to have Dr. Linda Alexander, our Chief Academic Officer, serving as a fellow, contributing her expertise to advancing religious literacy in healthcare.
A central component of this initiative is the newly established John Templeton Fellows program, which brings together leading experts in public health, medicine, and faith communities to shape curriculum development, research, and community partnerships.
Led by Dr. Gary Gunderson of The Carter Center, the fellowship also includes thought leaders such as Dr. Katelyn Long of Harvard University and Dr. Sana Syed, President of American Muslim Health Professionals. These fellows will guide campus-based projects, ensuring that efforts build upon existing research and effectively engage faith-based organizations in health equity work.
This initiative seeks to improve health outcomes and promote equity across diverse populations by fostering collaboration between academic institutions, healthcare providers, and religious communities. The program reflects a growing recognition that understanding religious perspectives can enhance patient trust, improve health interventions, and create more inclusive healthcare systems.
Visit Interfaith America’s official announcement to learn more about the Faith in Health Professions program and the John Templeton Fellows.