Victoria Kozar

UConn School of Medicine

was born and raised in New Milford, Connecticut and graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science in health science studies.
While an undergraduate, I worked with Special Olympics Connecticut on their Healthy Athlete Initiative, where I organized free health screenings and wellness events for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the state. I also took part in the interdisciplinary Service Learning Program, where I promoted good health practices at urban elementary schools and volunteered at a homeless shelter in New Haven.
I have spent time as a Dementia Program Coordinator at local nursing homes and currently volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association as both an advocate and a community educator. In this latter capacity, I meet with state and federal lawmakers about issues and legislation pertaining to those living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias, as well as their caregivers and families. I currently serve as the organization’s ambassador to Congresswoman Jahana Hayes.
Involvement in the Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars (UST/AS) Program will give me the opportunity to better understand how patients from diverse backgrounds access and experience healthcare, through their own perspectives. The UST/AS Program will also give me the knowledge and hands-on experience I need not only to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes of underserved populations, but also to grow as a leader and become an agent of change in my community.