Celebrating Black History Month
Celebrating our roots in Jacksonville's Black history.
This February, in honor of Black History Month, UF Health Jacksonville and the Diversity Council recognize the important contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout our nation’s history, as well as our hospital’s history.
UF Health Jacksonville has deep roots in local African American history that go back to the founding of the George A. Brewster Hospital and School of Nurse Training in 1901.
Brewster Hospital was the only local medical institution during that time providing health care for the Black community. Likewise, it was the first Black nursing school in the state of Florida.
For many years, Brewster Hospital and the School of Nurse Training were important parts of the Black community and the city of Jacksonville. The Brewster nurse epitomized excellence in health care, pride and dignity in appearance, and knowledge of nursing.
Today, UF Health Jacksonville comprises diverse employees from many walks of life with different backgrounds and heritage. We are proud of our African American history and the staff, faculty and physicians who represent us today. We will continue to work to cultivate a culture in which inclusion, diversity, equity and access serve as the foundation of our medical care, education, innovation and research efforts.
Visit the Diversity & Inclusion page on the Bridge for more information about the Diversity Council and ongoing initiatives.
