Prairie View A&M University is taking student health to the next level with the launch of its Student Sickle Cell Warrior Project, a first-of-its-kind pilot program designed to support students living with sickle cell disease. The initiative, which officially kicked off on September 17, 2025, is set to become a national model for other schools.

Sickle cell disease is a severe inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells and disproportionately impacts Black families. In Texas, about 85% of sickle cell cases are found within Black households. For college students balancing late-night study sessions, internships, and campus life, living with the disease can make navigating young adulthood even more challenging—especially while away from their family and regular doctors.

That’s where Prairie View’s new program steps in. Students identified by the Owens Franklin Health Center will now have direct access to specialized care at Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, or UT Houston. On top of that, the Sickle Cell Association of Texas Marc Thomas Foundation in Austin will also provide resources and support to help students manage their health while chasing their degrees.

“This is a great opportunity for Prairie View to help establish a model of support for college students nationwide who have been diagnosed with sickle cell disease,” said Dr. Tondra L. Moore, executive director of Health Services at PVAMU.

Prairie View was selected to launch the project thanks to Moore’s national leadership through the American College Health Association, where she’s been pushing for stronger, student-centered care across campuses. Her advocacy, combined with Prairie View’s commitment to innovation, positioned the university as the perfect site for a program that could change the way schools handle chronic conditions.

By focusing on the unique needs of what they call Student Warriors, the project isn’t just about health—it’s about success, resilience, and making sure young people with sickle cell disease don’t just get by, but thrive in college and beyond.

Cover photo: Prairie View A&M Becomes First HBCU to Launch Sickle Cell Warrior Program for Students/Photo credit: Prairie View A&M