Since its inception in 1996, the Chicago Area Schweitzer Fellows Program has provided a platform for graduate students to design and implement innovative projects that improve the health and well-being of underserved populations throughout Chicago. Individual donors are critical to the program’s sustainability, and we are incredibly grateful to have 5 out of 28 Fellows supported through Named Fellowships.

Initiated in 2022 by Karen and Michael Koronkowski—parents of 2020-2021 Fellow Kelly Moore—the Frank J. Indihar Fellowship honors Kelly’s uncle and supports students in the fields of nursing, pharmacy, and medicine. Karen shares that the Schweitzer program aligns with Dr. Indihar’s commitment to mentoring future leaders and has inspired Kelly’s passion for service and advocacy. As a Fellow, Kelly worked with isolated older adults through Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly (LBFE), provided support with their health concerns, and engaged in Advanced Care Planning conversations to assist older adults in expressing their end-of-life wishes.

Karen and Michael Koronkowski, both health care professionals themselves, are thrilled to support two graduate students who share their passion for equitable community health: Ivana Chmielewski, North Park University nursing student, and Preetham Kastury, University of Chicago medical student.

Ivana is working in collaboration with Swedish Hospital to develop literacy education programs. With a particular focus on mental health and social determinants of health, Ivana she will create transcultural nursing resources that will empower and support the community of immigrants, refugees, minorities, and unhoused individuals.

Preetham will spearhead a unique community-based curriculum for older adults in the South Side of Chicago that will tackle digital equity aspects, including digital well-being, access, safety, and literacy, to enhance older adults’ digital literacy and well-being.

Ivana, Preetham, and the entire Schweitzer Fellows team are incredibly grateful for Karen, Michael, and Kelly’s unwavering support.

Looking for a meaningful way to support the next generation of aspiring health professionals? Consider sponsoring a Named Fellowship! 

For more information, please reach out to Shannon Sweetnam, Director of Development and Communications, ssweetnam@hmprgstage.wpengine.com.