2025 PRESIDENT’ S MEDAL
The Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science President’ s Medal recognizes extraordinary and unique service to Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science by a member of the University community who has performed with excellence in his or her chosen profession.
SYLVIA DREW IVIE, JD
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science proudly presents the 2025 President’ s Medal to Sylvia Drew Ivie, J. D., in recognition of her lifelong commitment to health equity, social justice, and community empowerment. Ms. Drew Ivie, daughter of Dr. Charles Drew, is a civil rights attorney and health equity advocate. She is the former Special Assistant for Community Affairs to the President of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science and has held numerous leadership roles in Los Angeles County, including Mental Health Deputy for Supervisor Sheila Kuehl and Senior Deputy for Human Services for Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.
Ms. Drew Ivie founded the South Los Angeles Community Kitchen and served as Executive Director of both the T. H. E.( To Help Everyone) Clinic, a federally qualified health center for underserved women and children, and the National Health Law Program. Her federal service includes directing the Office of Civil Rights at the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services and serving as Assistant Counsel to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Ms. Drew Ivie’ s many accolades include the United Way Agency Excellence Award, the Kaiser Family Foundation’ s Nelson Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights, and the California Black Caucus Community Asset Award. Her work continues to inspire generations of health and justice advocates.
2025 CLASS SPEAKER
NJERI KIAMBATI President, CDU Student Government Candidate- Bachelor of Science, Public Health