Alight, Inc. (NYSE: ALIT), a leading cloud-based human capital and technology services provider, today announced its sponsorship of Loyola University Chicago’s Health Equity Quest, an annual initiative that highlights innovative approaches to address pressing health equity challenges.
This year’s Health Equity Quest, hosted by Loyola University Chicago in partnership with MATTER, a global healthcare incubator, centers on advancing mental health solutions for early-career professionals. The 2024 challenge invites participants to present transformative solutions aimed at preventing and addressing mental health issues faced by young professionals, particularly in relation to socioeconomic, racial and gender-based disparities. These issues often impact early-career professionals as they transition from academic environments to high-stress workplace settings.
As this year’s Pitch Sponsor and a judging panel member, Alight is reinforcing its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, with a special focus on workplace mental health.
"The mental health of early-career professionals is vital not only to their individual wellbeing but to the resilience and productivity of the workforce as a whole," said Xan Daniels, Vice President of Inclusion and Diversity at Alight. “As the Pitch Sponsor and a participating judge, Alight is proud to support an initiative that sparks innovation and change in mental health access and equity, helping to create an environment where young professionals can thrive.”
Held at MATTER on November 14, the Health Equity Quest will feature six finalist teams, selected from a national pool, presenting innovative solutions aimed at fostering mental health equity in the workplace.
2024 Health Equity Quest finalists include:
• Alkeme Health (Chicago, IL): A platform that connects Black communities with culturally aligned mental health professionals, bridging gaps in access to care.
• Joystik (Milwaukee, WI): A workplace-oriented mind-body medicine solution featuring simple, engaging and scientifically backed techniques.
• Libbie Health (New York, NY): AI-powered mental health support tailored to marginalized groups, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, providing culturally sensitive resources.
• Sista Afya Community Care (Chicago, IL): A Southside Chicago organization offering mental wellness programs specifically designed for Black women.
• ThriveLink (St. Louis, MO): An AI-driven platform that enables enrollment in health and social programs without requiring internet or smartphones.
• Wave (Menlo Park, CA): A digital platform that combines live provider support with app-based behavioral health interventions for digital natives.
The finalists will compete for up to $35,000 in cash prizes awarded to the top three teams, as chosen by the judging panel. In addition to the pitch competition, the day will include speeches, panel discussions and networking opportunities, uniting attendees around the common goal of advancing mental health equity.
“Alight’s participation in the Health Equity Quest aligns with our mission to support impactful community initiatives that drive positive change and foster equitable environments for the next generation," said Deepika Duggirala, EVP of Technology at Alight. "This inspiring event brings together some of the brightest minds in health equity innovation.”
Join us on November 14, either in person at MATTER or virtually, to hear pitches from the finalists as they present their solutions to a panel of industry leaders. At the event’s conclusion, Loyola University Chicago and MATTER will announce the winning team selected by the judges.