U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow Visits LSU Health Shreveport, Highlights Importance of Medical Education and Research Funding – Bossier Press-Tribune

U.S. Congresswoman Julia Letlow (Louisiana 5th District) recently visited LSU Health Shreveport, touring the institution’s newest facility, the Center for Medical Education Building (CMEB) and engaging with students during a public forum focused on healthcare, research and the future of medicine.
During the forum, she met with students from the institution’s three schools: the School of Medicine, School of Health Professions and Sciences and School of Graduate Studies. She addressed questions on issues impacting Louisiana, including the critical role of federal investment in medical research.
“I am a huge believer in research. That is how we’re going to change the world. That is how we’re going to cure cancer,” Letlow responded to a group of PhD candidates who actively work in cancer and cardiovascular research. “I have the awesome responsibility of serving on the appropriations committee, that actually holds the purse strings for how much funding NIH receives, and I go to bat every year. There are certain people who want to cut back, but it’s too important. It is absolutely vital.”
During her visit, Congresswoman Letlow explored the Center for Medical Education, a modern facility designed to advance team-based, active learning for medical students. The tour included the building’s large instructional classrooms, smaller active learning classrooms, the Bakowski Center for Culinary Medicine and hands-on skills and simulation labs that support clinical training.
Letlow’s visit marks a continued connection to LSU Health Shreveport. She’s previously delivered a commencement address to graduates, sharing a deeply personal story about the care her family received at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport during the COVID-19 pandemic, when her late husband, Congressman-elect Luke Letlow, was hospitalized prior to his passing.
Her return to campus underscores both her advocacy for healthcare education and research, and the lasting impact of LSU Health Shreveport’s mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care while training future leaders in medicine and science.
The Bossier Press-Tribune is dedicated to providing accurate, timely and relevant news coverage to the residents of Bossier Parish and surrounding communities. With a strong commitment to journalistic integrity, the publication strives to inform the public, highlight local achievements, and serve as a trusted source for community news and information.
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The Bossier Press-Tribune is located at 710 Benton Road, Suite A, Bossier City, LA 71111. For general inquiries, call 318-747-7900.
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