Jessica Chacon, MD

2026 RECIPIENT

ACHF College Well-Being Award

“Meet the Expert, Build the Network: An Innovative Model for Student Well-Being and Belonging”

Dr. Jessica Chacon is a tenure-track assistant professor of immunology and microbiology at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, with a secondary appointment in dental medicine. With over 15 years of experience in immunology and cancer immunotherapy, her research focuses on T-cell biology and translational approaches to improve cancer treatment outcomes. Her work bridges scientific innovation with education, as reflected in her leadership in curriculum development and mentorship of medical and graduate students. Dr. Chacon is the founder and project director of the El Paso Health Education and Awareness Team (EP-HEAT®), a community-driven initiative that trains students to deliver bilingual health education and address health disparities in underserved populations. She has led multiple funded projects and collaborative programs focused on community engagement, digital literacy, and public health outreach along the U.S.-Mexico border.

About the Project:
The El Paso Health Education and Awareness Team (EP-HEAT®) Meet the Expert Initiative is a structured, community-engaged mentorship and well-being network designed to strengthen student well-being through sustainable campus infrastructure. The initiative prioritizes inclusive, culturally responsive engagement and intentionally centers students from historically underrepresented backgrounds, particularly those navigating academic and professional pathways in border-region and underserved contexts. This project aligns with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso’s commitment to fostering a healthy campus community by addressing emotional, social, academic, and professional well-being dimensions. Through structured “Meet the Expert” sessions supported by standardized facilitation guides, student leadership roles, and coordinated partnerships with stakeholders, EP-HEAT® builds institutional capacity to support mentorship, connection, and holistic student development.