Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship
Building the future workforce of culturally sensitive caregivers
Molina Healthcare of Ohio has long recognized the need to improve diversity among lactation consultants. In the U.S., the number of board-certified lactation consultants of color does not reflect the diversity of the perinatal population. We aim to make it easier for candidates who have been historically underrepresented in the field to join the profession and for more new parents to receive culturally sensitive care. In our continued commitment to removing barriers to people of color, we give preference to applicants of color.
How we help break down barriers
In partnership with Pacify, Molina Healthcare of Ohio offers the Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Program. Each $1,250 award will help cover the cost of expenses, such as the exam offered by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, required to become a board-certified lactation consultant. People of color and champions of health equity, who live in Ohio and are interested in becoming lactation consultants, are invited to apply September 1, 2024 to November 30, 2024.
Click here to read more about the inaugural launch of the scholarship in the state of Ohio!
Continued support
We are proud of our Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Program. While the award removes some of the financial barriers, we know there is more that can be done to support our winners.
That is why our partner Pacify has created the Lactation Mentorship Program, in which current Pacify Lactation Consultants serve as Mentors for scholarship awardees for a year long mentorship program! This program is meant to holistically support Mentees along the path to becoming an IBCLC. With support from Pacify’s Clinical Department, Mentors will provide a framework for navigating the IBCLC pathways, choosing an education program, reviewing clinical cases, preparing for the exam, interviewing skills and more.
Together, Molina Healthcare of Ohio and Pacify, are committed to not only removing financial barriers, but also to contributing to the success of future IBCLCs. We believe that by nurturing diversity we ensure the future of a healthy and relevant lactation profession.
Meet Our Recipients
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Ciara
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Dawn
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Moneq
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Errin
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Nabila
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Sherveriria
Diversity in Lactation Consulting Scholarship Recipient – Meet Yukeana
The 2024 scholarship application window is September 1, 2024 to November 30, 2024.
If you'd like to prepare your application for upcoming scholarships, please keep in mind the requirements below. Applicants will need to:
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Satisfy requirements set forth by the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Examiners.
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If selected as one of the final candidates, complete a video interview with the Pacify team.