A Higher Promise for the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals

This summer, Bronson partnered with the Kalamazoo Promise to provide internship opportunities to 19 students who are part of the Higher Promise Scholarship Program. From phlebotomy and the emergency department to IT and HR, interns worked in a variety of roles across the Bronson system.

An internship program for students who are part of the Kalamazoo Promise, Higher Promise is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical experience. For Bronson, this is also a significant investment in the future of our region’s healthcare. The students who are participating in the Higher Promise were raised in Kalamazoo. Having an opportunity to intern at Bronson – the region’s largest employer and leading healthcare system – could lead to a long-term career within the organization.

“This internship allows us to bring young voices into our healthcare community,” said Bill Manns, Bronson’s president & CEO. “It exposes them to healthcare and it exposes us to their fresh perspectives and ideas. I think that connection really helps everyone to thrive.”

Higher Promise Coordinator Cetera DiGiovanni emphasized the importance of investing in Kalamazoo’s local talent to reinforce a strong, synergistic community. “These interns are our future workforce, and we know that for the City of Kalamazoo to thrive, we need to retain some of that local talent,” explained DiGiovanni. “We would love to see young professionals here in the City of Kalamazoo thriving and helping to create a more vibrant, young and innovative town.”

As part of Bronson’s commitment to advancing the health of our communities, we are invested in developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Supporting this initiative is one way we can help endow these students with the skills and experience necessary to drive excellence and innovation in patient care. Together, with the Kalamazoo Promise, we are building a brighter future for healthcare, the talented individuals who will lead it and our southwest Michigan community.

Hear from the Students

Western Michigan University student, Morgan S., was excited to intern with Bronson’s phlebotomy team. During her internship, she has loved being able to connect with her colleagues and patients. “I’m proud to be an intern at Bronson because I know this is a very sought after internship and I am grateful I had the opportunity to do it and do it wholeheartedly,” she said. “This is a great opportunity to get my foot in the door and it has taught me so many life lessons in a short amount of time.”

A recent graduate of Kalamazoo College, Isabelle H. interned on the neurovascular unit at Bronson Methodist Hospital. She is excited to be gaining professional experience within a nationally recognized healthcare system. “I’m really proud to be a part of a facility that values patient well-being and that’s nationally recognized for their stroke care,” said Isabelle.

Looking for a rewarding career at Bronson?

When you choose a career at Bronson, you choose a team of professionals who care for each other as much as they care for their patients. Whether you're a student eager to gain hands-on experience or looking to make your next career move, Bronson has exciting opportunities for you!