Bailey Williams (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma) First-Year Medical Student

As a first-year medical student at Oregon Health & Science University, Bailey Williams (Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma) is committed to increasing Indigenous representation in medicine. Their journey to medical school was shaped by transformative programs like Wy’east, RISE Pathway, and AI/AN Medical School Applicant Workshop—opportunities that provided the mentorship and support they needed to navigate the path to becoming a physician. Now, Bailey is dedicated to ensuring future Indigenous students have access to similar resources.

Through the Healers Community Circle, Bailey is developing a centralized online hub for Native students pursuing healthcare careers, compiling scholarships, programs, and resources that are often difficult to find. This project will help Indigenous students access the financial and educational support they need to succeed, while also building connections between tribes and institutions that aim to uplift Native healthcare professionals. By bridging these gaps, Bailey hopes to inspire and empower the next generation of Indigenous healers.

Stay connected as Bailey shares their journey and works to make medical education more accessible for Native students.