The United Health Foundation has announced $1.2 million in college scholarships to more than two hundred students from diverse backgrounds pursuing careers in the health sector.

Scholarships averaging $5,000 per student were awarded through the foundation's Diverse Scholars Initiative, which is administered through various partnering organizations and designed to close the health disparities gap, increase culturally competent healthcare delivery, and improve health outcomes over the long term. To qualify for funding, students must demonstrate financial need, the pursuit of a degree that will lead to a career in a health field, and a commitment to working in underserved communities, including community health centers.

Since 2007, the foundation has committed more than $3 million to the initiative, providing support to more than five hundred and eighty-five students.

"These outstanding scholars will be an integral part of the future of our nation's healthcare system and a...workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our country," said Jeannine Rivet, executive vice president of the UnitedHealth Group and interim president of UHF. "Helping to support and develop...future healthcare leaders [from diverse backgrounds] is one way that the [foundation] works to improve our communities and our nation's health and well-being."