The Cornell-HHMI Accelerating Medical Progress through Scholarship (CHAMPS) program, supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), provides opportunities for high caliber students from groups traditionally underrepresented in biomedical careers to engage in scholarship and research. Increasing the participation from these cohorts is critical to draw from the Nation’s full potential of scientific talent and to foster a sustainable pool of biomedical researchers for the future. CHAMPS students are selected from early stage Cornell students who demonstrate high levels of academic promise. The students participate in advanced chemistry preparation and conduct independent research in a mentored environment. In many cases, the students produce impactful advances to cutting-edge research in a variety of scientific disciplines. As a group, the students also receive instruction in work practice, professional development, responsible conduct, and hone their writing and presentation skills. Additionally, the students lead scientific outreach efforts to K-12 schools and serve as mentors to less experienced students.