This project is geared toward training researchers in productive, evidence-based research in addressing maternal morbidity and mortality. Maternal mortality in the African American community is at a record high, far exceeding their White counterparts.

Public health experience demonstrates that preventative measures are effective and provide healthier outcomes with a reduced impact on health care expenditures in all communities. The Research Center is a tool for Public Health agencies seekingsolutions that include equipping the public health workforce to contribute to the identification and implementation community-based solutions that directly address the problems that create the situation on a local and national level.

The research center at Tennessee State University focuses on planning and implementing applied maternal health disparities research.  The application of successful solutions begins with building research capacity in culturally competent training institutions that include the capacity of HBCUs on a national level.  TSU participates in contributing to training a public health workforce that is diverse and inclusive to address this need.