Pulse

‘Our Core Values as Guideposts’: In conversation with Dr. Luisel Ricks-Santi

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Dr. Ricks Santi

Luisel Ricks-Santi, Ph.D., joined Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University last fall as senior associate vice president of Diversity & Inclusion. She brought with her a wealth of expertise — and passion to her role.

“We use our core values as guideposts for all we do — whether that’s workforce development or advancing health solutions for all people,” she explained.

A cancer disparities researcher and population scientist, Dr. Ricks-Santi has dedicated much of her career to research, education and mentorship. Prior to joining ODU, she served in leadership at the University of Florida Health Cancer Center and held faculty roles at Hampton University, where she made significant contributions to cancer research and the development of the Molecular COVID Lab.

Her journey has brought her back to Hampton Roads, where she is now poised to further advance ODU’s mission to prepare healthcare professionals who are equipped to address a wide range of health challenges. Below, she shares her insights on initiatives shaping ODU’s future in healthcare.

Q: What makes Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University unique in terms of its ability to help address health disparities?
Dr. Luisel Ricks-Santi: We are truly committed to ensuring that our healthcare workforce reflects the communities we serve. As we continue to confront health disparities — particularly in underserved and rural areas — it's crucial to have professionals from all backgrounds who are equipped to understand and address these challenges. The colleges and schools within Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU will continue to play a role in meeting that need.

Q: How can we attract and support underrepresented individuals in healthcare?
LRS: We focus on creating pathways for students from all backgrounds. Our recruitment efforts emphasize inclusion of individuals from racially and ethnically diverse communities and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Programs like The L.D. Britt Premedical Scholars Program, which partners with Norfolk State University (NSU) and Hampton University, are central to this effort. We aim to mentor and guide these students into the healthcare professions, providing both the academic and community support they need to succeed.

Q: Can you tell us about any specific initiatives that focus on health equity?
LRS:  We have several programs focused on reducing health disparities. For example, the ENRICHe program — developed in partnership with NSU — focuses on improving access to healthcare and research opportunities for underrepresented groups. Additionally, the Regional Cancer Disparities Collaborative brings together health systems and community organizations to address cancer care disparities, particularly in prostate, colon and breast cancer.

Q: What is the role of community engagement in these efforts?
LRS:  Community engagement is fundamental to our work. Through initiatives like the Community Inclusion and Health Equity (CIHE) program, we ensure that community voices are integrated into our clinical, educational and research activities. This approach helps us tailor solutions that are relevant and impactful, both for our students and the populations they’ll serve.

Q: What do you see as the long-term impact of these efforts on healthcare?
LRS:  By fostering an environment where students learn from many experiences and backgrounds, we’re not just preparing them to be healthcare professionals; we’re preparing them to serve our entire society. These efforts are crucial to the future of healthcare, as they ensure our professionals are better equipped to tackle the complex health challenges faced by a broad range of communities.