AZ HEAL

Arizona Health Education and Learning

Previously University of Arizona HEAL

Our Mission

AZ HEAL is dedicated to using healthcare education as a form of preventative medicine in local middle schools. Through interactive, age-appropriate physiology lectures, we aim to raise health awareness, reduce the prevalence of preventable illnesses, and spark interest in medical careers. After each presentation, we host open discussions to address students’ questions and offer mentorship. Our long-term goal is to help close systemic gaps in disadvantaged communities, where limited exposure to health education and healthy habits often contributes to disease.

How it Began

Riley (left), Adam (middle), Daniel (right)

Riley, Daniel, and Adam met during their undergraduate years at the University of Arizona, united by a shared passion for their degree in physiology. As they studied together and discussed their future careers in healthcare, they became increasingly aware of the disparities that leave many communities underserved. What began as casual brainstorming evolved into a meaningful realization: real change often starts small, and preventative health education towards the youth could be a powerful first step in reducing disease and improving outcomes within local communities.

Determined to turn their ideas into action, they founded the first chapter of UA HEAL at the University of Arizona as a tangible way to begin making a difference. After graduation, UA HEAL expanded beyond campus and became AZ HEAL, a state-recognized nonprofit organization serving communities across Arizona.

What We Do

We present research-based health information supported by the University of Arizona professors, practicing physicians, and practicing dentists. Our physiology powerpoints are engaging and age-appropriate for middle school students, and we encourage those who show interest to consider the diverse opportunities within the STEM and healthcare field. Alongside the physiology lecture promoting healthy habits, we share our personal journeys in healthcare and break down the pathways to a variety of careers in the field. By discussing the challenges we faced and overcame, we encourage students to pursue their goals with confidence and without fear of failure.

Previous Lecture Topics

We have delivered physiology-based lessons on:

- immune health

- sleep and its effects on the body

- the physical and mental impacts of stress

- heat-related illness

- pathways to careers in healthcare

We plan to expand our topics to include oral health, cardiovascular health, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, and nutrition. We collaborate with local MDs, DDS professionals, PhD students, and University of Arizona professors to review our content and refine our approach to instruction.

Interactive Discussion Starters

Alongside asking questions to reinforce contents of our physiology lessons, we foster positive, small-group discussions that encourage students to reflect on their goals and the qualities needed to achieve them. By asking what health means to them and what careers interest them, we create space for students to explore their own aspirations, whether in healthcare or any other field. We also share our experiences as current or aspiring professional students, creating an open dialogue that helps students explore their perceptions of health, careers, and their own potential.