SAN ANTONIO The MolinaCares Accord, in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of Texas, recently hosted a virtual panel on how to increase education and employment opportunities across the state — especially for underserved populations — leading to enhanced health and well-being in Texas communities.
Dr. Naomi Alvarez, associate vice president of behavioral health for Molina Healthcare of Texas, hosted the discussion, which was moderated by Mariza Mendoza, reporter for News 4 NBC in San Antonio. State Representative John H. Bucy III provided opening remarks.
“Removing barriers to education and opening doors to enhanced employment opportunities can unlock a new world of possibilities, from longer life expectancies to expanded access to quality medical care and lifestyle choices,” said Alvarez. “These benefits can sometimes be overlooked, and our panel of experts and their respective organizations are key to ensuring as many Texans as possible have the tools they need to thrive, making our communities stronger and healthier for the long-term.”
Kerry Ballast, deputy division director of workforce education for the Texas Workforce Commission; Dr. Ann Barnes, president and CEO of the Episcopal Health Foundation; Joy Burress, BA, CESP, program specialist for Project SEARCH; and Cathe Dykstra, chief possibility officer, president and CEO of Family Scholar House, discussed the impact education and quality employment can have for generations, building healthy foundations and extending life expectancies for people in communities across Texas.
“Between our investment in community colleges, research universities and technical colleges, we are increasing the pathways from education to the workforce,” said Rep. Bucy, during his opening remarks. “Having a good job, educating Texans in different career paths and getting them into the Texas workforce is so important for the growth of this state.”
The full panel discussion can be viewed here.
