On January 14, 2025, Teoma LaShawn, PT, DPT, MDiv, led an engaging session with Fellows in the Office of Black Church Studies at Duke Divinity School. Dr. LaShawn shared insights on the benefits of collaborating with physical therapists to promote health within the Black Church context. She highlighted how physical therapists and clergy can work together to leverage the unique strengths of Black congregations—such as trust, community, and support—to address health disparities within the African American community.
This partnership aims to create more points of contact for African Americans to engage with healthcare providers in familiar, safe spaces, ultimately reducing health inequities.
The Fellows in the Office of Black Church Studies are pursuing a Certificate in Black Church Studies as part of their Master of Divinity program. They receive full tuition scholarships and engage in tailored programming to enhance their educational and vocational development, preparing them for leadership roles in the Black Church and beyond.
This collaboration is a promising step towards fostering more significant health equity and community well-being.