Westchester County, NY — February 20, 2026 — Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC), under the leadership of Board Chair Talbert Thomas, is sharing an important national academic opportunity for high-achieving high school seniors throughout Westchester County.
The opportunity was brought to ELOC by Board Member Dr. Keith C. Norris, MD, PhD, Professor of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Norris is an internationally recognized clinician, scientist, and health policy leader whose work focuses on chronic kidney disease research and advancing health equity. A graduate of Howard University College of Medicine, Dr. Norris highlighted the program as an exceptional pathway for students seeking an HBCU college experience and an accelerated track toward careers in Medicine or Dentistry.


The competitive program is open to eligible students nationwide and is designed to support academic excellence while preparing future healthcare leaders.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
• Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Minimum SAT score of 1310 or ACT score of 28
• Current high school senior
The application deadline is March 30, 2026.
ELOC is encouraging qualified Westchester County students and their families to review the program details and apply as soon as possible. The organization is also asking educators, guidance counselors, and community leaders to help spread the word so that eligible students do not miss this opportunity.
Students can access the application here:
https://tnstateu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0esrq6x0Fz3m0Iu
“ELOC is committed to ensuring that students in Westchester County are aware of transformative academic opportunities,” said Board Chair Talbert Thomas. “We encourage families, educators, and community leaders to help us spread the word so that qualified students can take full advantage of this opportunity.”
About Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC)
Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC) is dedicated to advancing environmental justice, leadership development, and educational access across the region. Through academic outreach, workforce training, and environmental programming, ELOC works to equip the next generation with the tools needed to lead and succeed.
For more information, visit www.eloc.earth.
Media Contact:
Dr. Diana K. Williams, MBA, DDS
Executive Director
Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC)
diana@eloc.earth














