The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) held a dedication ceremony to honor the Paso del Norte Health Foundation’s 30 years of partnership in advancing health across the region. The event marked the foundation’s anniversary and highlighted its ongoing collaboration with UTEP to improve community well-being.
During the ceremony, Tracy J. Yellen, CEO of the Paso del Norte Health Foundation; Amy Marcus, chair of the foundation’s board; and UTEP President Heather Wilson unveiled “Health in Mind, Body and Spirit,” a six-foot sculpture by artist Julio Sanchez De Alba. The artwork is located at the Health Sciences and Nursing Building on campus and represents unity, collaboration, and a shared vision for regional health.
In recognition of significant support from the foundation, UTEP dedicated the terrace at its Health Sciences and Nursing Building as the Paso del Norte Health Foundation Terrace. Since it was established, the foundation has provided $38.5 million in grants to UTEP for projects related to health education and disease prevention. These include initiatives such as smoke-free programs, psychology internships, diabetes prevention efforts, and workforce development in healthcare fields. In 2024 alone, UTEP received a $4.5 million matching grant from the foundation aimed at increasing graduates in nursing, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
Amy Marcus said, “We are grateful for our 30-year partnership with The University of Texas at El Paso, leveraging the work of UTEP faculty, staff and students across disciplines to design and implement programs that improve health in the region. From classrooms and clinics to health education campaigns and community-based coalitions, UTEP’s grant-funded work supports innovation, collaboration, and impact in our region.”
UTEP President Heather Wilson commented on the longstanding relationship: “For more than 30 years, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation has stood beside UTEP as a steadfast partner with unwavering commitment to advancing the health and well-being of our community. We are deeply grateful for their visionary support, which has helped us educate generations of healthcare professionals and expand opportunities that strengthen the vitality of our region.”
Over three decades, funding from the foundation has supported various public health initiatives not only in El Paso but also throughout southern New Mexico and Ciudad Juárez. These have included efforts such as advocating for smoke-free ordinances, creating hike-and-bike trails, encouraging healthy eating habits and active lifestyles, as well as providing resources during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tracy J. Yellen emphasized ongoing cooperation between both organizations: “Our continued partnership with UTEP reflects our deep belief in the power of education, collaboration, and innovation to shape a healthier future. Together we empower the next generation of healthcare professionals to support a healthier region.”
More information about these initiatives can be found at pdnhf.org.
