23 Oct
Health Care

CalViva Health invests in education, health care access across the Central Valley

By | October 23, 2026 - 2:54 PM

health lab opening

From left, Jeffrey Nkansah and Courtney Shapiro with CalViva Health pose with Michelle Bradford, dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at Fresno Pacific University. Courtesy of Fresno Pacific University

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This organization is among the honorees to be recognized at The Business Journal’s inaugural Philanthropy Excellence Awards for its commitment to improving the wellbeing of the Central Valley. Winners in each award category will be announced during the program on Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Pardini’s Catering & Banquets. Visit eventbrite.com for Philanthropy Excellence Awards tickets.


CalViva Health, a locally managed health plan serving Fresno, Kings and Madera counties, has been named a Community Champion Award honoree for its commitment to strengthening communities and expanding access to quality health care.

Serving nearly 394,000 Medi-Cal members, CalViva Health supports children, families and individuals who may otherwise face barriers to care. Led by CEO Jeffrey Nkansah, its community investments extend beyond health coverage to education, workforce development and partnerships with organizations addressing local needs.

A significant example is CalViva Health’s $250,000 investment in Fresno Pacific University, which established the CalViva Health Simulation Lab. The facility provides nursing students with advanced equipment and hands-on clinical training, allowing them to practice patient-care scenarios in a safe, realistic environment.

The lab has the potential to serve approximately 25 to 35 students per nursing cohort, helping prepare future health care professionals to meet the Central Valley’s growing needs.

CalViva Health also supports health care scholarships at Fresno State, Clovis Community College and Fresno City College, helping students pursue careers in the medical field. Its broader community partnerships include the Marjaree Mason Center, Webster Park, Community Regional Medical Center, the Fresno Police Activities League and local food banks.

Through grants, scholarships, sponsorships and direct program support, CalViva Health invests in initiatives focused on youth recreation, food security, affordable housing, foster youth and domestic violence prevention.

Through these efforts, CalViva Health continues to demonstrate a commitment to improving health, expanding educational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families throughout the Central Valley.

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