The inaugural Global Consortium Summit of Innovation and Engineering in Medicine, hosted by the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, was a landmark gathering drawing more than 500 participants from 16 countries and around the country held in early April. The event marked a significant moment in the intersection of medicine, engineering, innovation, and global collaboration.
The organization aims to bring together institutions and thought leaders from around the world to reimagine medical education and research by infusing engineering principles into medical training and practice. The Atlanta University Center Consortium joined the organization in 2025.
Representing the Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC) (Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Spelman College), Dr. Michael Hodge, CEO and Executive Director, Dr. Christopher Ellis, Senior Director, Institute for Dual Degree Engineering Advancement (IDEA)and Dr. Michael Hines, Senior Director of Strategic Innovation and Academic Initiatives and representatives from Morehouse School of Medicine, participants engaged in forward-thinking conversations with leadership from both the Carle Illinois College of Medicine and The Grainger College of Engineering.
Carle Illinois College of Medicine is the world’s first engineering-based medical school, uniquely positioning it at the forefront of a transformative movement in healthcare and biomedical innovation. By integrating disciplines such as data science, bioengineering, and clinical practice, Carle is pioneering a new model for training physician-innovators.
According to Dr. Ellis, “This potential collaboration is nothing short of a game-changer for the DDEP and its students. It not only expands post-graduate opportunities but also aligns perfectly with the mission of the AUCC to provide world-class, interdisciplinary education that equips students to lead in fields where diversity and innovation are critical.”
Discussions centered around the next steps in forming a strategic partnership that would create pathways for AUCC’s Dual Degree Engineering Program students to pursue advanced degrees—specifically, a Master of Science in Engineering, or potentially a Doctor of Medicine integrated track.
Ellis continued, “This summit showcased what’s possible when institutions come together with a shared vision to disrupt traditional models and build inclusive pipelines to the future of healthcare and technology. We are excited about the possibilities and look forward to solidifying this partnership in the coming months.”
