Who We Are

The Satcher Health Leadership Institute (SHLI) was founded in 2006 by the 16th US Surgeon General, Dr. David Satcher, and has become a pioneering voice for advancing health equity.
Our Philosophy
Our vision at the Satcher Health Leadership Institute is to be a leading transformative force for global health equity.
Satcher Health Leadership Institute is unique because of three core concepts that are not central to other health leadership institutes. Specifically, SHLI prioritizes approaches to contribute to the elimination of health disparities by encouraging leadership among underrepresented minorities; working to develop replicable standards and strategies in health leadership; and promoting and fostering a diverse and inclusive health leadership network. The Institute is supported by a myriad of partners and collaborators that help to bolster our sustainability and success.
Our Research Priorities

What drives us forward

1
Mental and Behavioral Health

We prioritize mental health research and programs aimed at eliminating disparities in vulnerable populations, focusing on improving healthcare system efficiency to achieve optimal wellness.

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2
Political Determinants of Health

We examine how the structural distribution of resources and opportunities shape health outcomes, recognizing that political determinants create social drivers that significantly impact health equity.

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3
Health System Transformation

We support health leaders focused on transforming America's health system to address declining outcomes, prioritizing research and thought leadership that can be operationalized for lasting change.

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Our Mission

To develop a diverse group of exceptional health leaders, advance and support comprehensive health system strategies, and actively promote policies and practices that will reduce and ultimately eliminate disparities in health.

Framing Philosophies

Health leaders should be well prepared to use successful leadership models and strategies that will create conditions for optimal health.
High performing health systems promote health, prevent disease, and provide health care that is available, accessible, affordable, accountable, and of high quality for all.
To improve the health of the public and assure health equity, health systems must engage the entire community in decision-making and finding solutions.

Our Values

We are an educational institution that is continuously learning and creating opportunities for personal growth, interpersonal effectiveness, critical thinking and success in a supportive environment that values:
  • Integrity and trustworthiness
  • Excellence
  • Diversity
  • Collaboration and partnership
  • Consensus building and communication
  • Prevention as a priority
  • Equal access to quality health services for all

Native Land Acknowledgment

The Satcher Health Leadership Institute and the Morehouse School of Medicine respectfully acknowledge that our work is conducted on the ancestral lands of the Mvskoke (Muscogee) people, who have stewarded this land since time immemorial. We recognize the enduring relationship between the Mvskoke people and these lands and honor their past, present, and future contributions to this region.In acknowledging this history, we also commit to actions that support Indigenous communities, including advocating for health equity, fostering collaborations with Indigenous-led organizations, and ensuring that the voices of Native peoples are amplified in our work. We understand that true equity requires continuous learning and engagement, and we strive to align our efforts with the needs and aspirations of Indigenous communities.

Lead the next generation of health equity advocates.

From physicians to policymakers, our graduates lead across sectors—creating inclusive, evidence-based solutions that improve health outcomes in underserved communities. Become a changemaker today.

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