The Center for Patient Partnerships (CPP), which offers experiential learning for undergraduate and graduate students interested in health-related careers, is now a part of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS). After 20 years as part of the Law School and a short time in Extension, CPP found a new home in Agricultural Hall earlier this summer.

“We are so happy to have CALS as our new administrative home,” says Sarah Davis, director of CPP. “We have had a long-standing partnership with the global health major and certificate, which are part of CALS, and the college offers so many majors that appeal to students who envision entering a career in the health sciences. I’m thrilled to be solidly rooted in a place with such rich, applied undergrad opportunities.”

CPP offers two main educational programs for students. The Community Resource Navigator Program, started in 2016, is a program for undergraduates interested in health-related professions – health care providers of all kinds including quality managers, research coordinators and social workers – to learn about the health care system through hands-on work with Wisconsinites. Students provide assistance navigating care and services beyond the clinic – such as insurance, work accommodations, and basic needs like housing and food. Undergrads work shifts at a free clinic or at the UW South Madison Partnership space where they can meet with community members or offer phone or text support.

The center’s second program, the Health Justice Clinic, was established in 2000 and is a high-impact experience that trains graduate and professional students to help patients navigate inside the health care system.

“CPP brings a vital focus on advocacy, equity, and patient-centered care to CALS,” says Jeri Barak, CALS associate dean of academic affairs. “Its integration creates new opportunities for undergraduates to engage directly with health systems and community needs, especially through the Resource Navigator Program, where students can support real patients while gaining hands-on experience in navigating care and social services. It’s a powerful way to connect academic learning with meaningful impact.”

CPP staff now have offices on the lower level of Agricultural Hall in Room 1. Davis is excited about the central campus location and the opportunity to be among a mix of undergraduate and gradaute students. She also looks forward to amplifying the synergies between CPP and the college such as applied learning and out-of-classroom experiences for students.

 “There’s more demand than enrollment slots right now,” she says. “We are incredibly excited to be here and explore how we can expand the opportunities for students.”