Columbia University Helps Advance Diversity in Healthcare Facilities at AMFP Expo

Columbia University served as presenting sponsor of  the Association of Medical Facility Professionals' (AMFP) Third Annual Turning the Tables MWBE Healthcare Expo on October 29, highlighting the University’s commitment to supporting the growth of minority-, woman- and locally owned (MWL) businesses.

Held in Manhattan, the event brought together 39 diverse businesses and over 100 industry professionals, creating a dynamic networking platform for certified MWL enterprises to showcase their capabilities and network with procurement decision-makers in the life-sciences, healthcare, and research industries.

Two Columbia University leaders, Tanya Pope, Associate Vice President of Construction Business Initiatives, and Dejan Bratun, CUIMC Director of Capital Project Management, delivered remarks that underscored the university's dedication to fostering inclusivity in the construction and facilities management landscape.

The expo featured 11 alumni from the CU Grow and Ascend NYC programs, Columbia-supported business development programs that help increase opportunities for MWL firms. Through programs such as CU Grow and Ascend NYC, the University has paid more than $1.3 billion to MWL firms in the past decade. 

“Columbia University continues to lead by example, proving that diversity and excellence go hand in hand in today's dynamic procurement ecosystem,” said Pope.

Established in 2020, AMFP GNY is the largest chapter in AMFP with over 500 members in the healthcare built environment from New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and Hudson Valley. AMFP GNY focuses on collaborating with peers in the healthcare build environment and helping to shape the future of the industry.