Annual Health Care Conference Addresses Human Trafficking Awareness

Annual Health Care Conference Addresses Human Trafficking Awareness

March 27, 2026

Briar Cliff University hosted its annual Achieving Cultural Awareness in Health Care conference, Human Trafficking: It's Real, bringing together Siouxland students and healthcare professionals for an important conversation on recognizing and responding to human trafficking.

The event featured Sister Shirley Fineran, founder and president of Lila Mae's House and Professor Emerita of Social Work at Briar Cliff, as the keynote speaker. Fineran shared her expertise on how trafficking often begins, common warning signs, and the critical role healthcare providers play in identifying and supporting victims.

Attendees gained practical tools to apply trauma-informed care in clinical and therapeutic settings, with an emphasis on patient safety, appropriate referrals, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The presentation encouraged participants to strengthen their awareness and responsiveness when working with vulnerable populations.

The Achieving Cultural Awareness in Health Care conference continues to support Briar Cliff's mission of reducing health disparities by equipping future and current professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to provide compassionate, culturally responsive, and evidence-based care.