With the nursing workforce in New York projected to face a shortage of more than 40,000 nurses by 2030, and the continuing disparities in health care access — especially in underserved areas like the Bronx and parts of Queens — the city stands at a crossroads. Communities of color and low-income neighborhoods continue to experience higher rates of preventable illness and death, underscoring the urgent need for health equity to become a priority. At the Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, our Evelyn Lauder Community Care Nurse Practitioner Program allows us to seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Fueled by a transformative gift from Leonard A. Lauder, this initiative is expanding nurse practitioner training and addressing health disparities. The program equips students from all over the city and the world to provide essential community-based care in neighborhoods where it is needed most, helping to close the gaps in access and outcomes that continue to plague our city. Health equity is not just an abstract goal — it is a necessity. New Yorkers living in underserved areas, particularly communities of color, have long faced barriers to accessing high-quality health care and these barriers were significantly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. If we are serious about addressing this crisis, we must prioritize the development of a health care workforce that is equipped to provide compassionate, holistic, community-based care in every corner of our city for years to come. New York’s health care challenges are deeply intertwined with societal factors. The lack of primary care facilities in many boroughs, coupled with the economic hurdles faced by prospective nurses — particularly the cost of education — contributes to this crisis. Our program, in partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals, the largest municipal public health system in the country, is addressing these challenges by training the next generation of nurse practitioners to advocate for their patients and communities, while also providing hands-on care. As a member of the community, I know it is imperative to have a stronger health care workforce that is equipped to meet the clinical, social and cultural needs of all New Yorkers. However, it’s not just about what happens in the exam room. Health equity requires a broader approach — one that recognizes and acts on the importance of real life variables like access to nutritious food, stable housing, and transportation. These social determinants of health play a crucial role in shaping outcomes, yet they are often overlooked in traditional health care settings because they may be “invisible” problems. By taking a holistic view of a patient’s circumstances, nurse practitioners can advocate for systemic solutions that improve the overall quality of life. For example, they can connect patients to food assistance programs, housing resources, or community organizations, to help address the real-world needs of every person. Nurse practitioners can be strong advocates for these issues as well, understanding that health extends beyond physical care to other interconnected factors that contribute to a person’s well-being.  Investing in education that emphasizes health equity — addressing the social determinants of health, recognizing disparities, and fostering cultural competence — not only empowers nurses but also improves patient outcomes and the vibrancy of our communities. When health care providers are trained to understand and confront disparities, they become agents of change, capable of advancing improvements at both the individual and systemic levels. This approach can lead to healthier communities and a more efficient health care system overall. The Lauder program aims to contribute to the creation of a health care workforce that understands and actively addresses inequities, which, in turn, can help reduce the burden on the system and support nurses in their vital roles. It is time to prioritize long-term and forward-looking action in nurse education and well-being to build a sustainable future for health care in New York.  With a continued dedication to health care education and community-based care, we can cultivate a healthier, more equitable outlook for our city. This vision cannot be propelled by one segment alone, but by the collective effort of policymakers, health care leaders, educators, and community members. By working together, we can create accessible pathways for aspiring health care professionals and ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of zip code, has access to comprehensive, high-quality care. We welcome and encourage every aspiring practitioner or health advocate to learn more and take advantage of the opportunities to advance holistic and inclusive care for New Yorkers. Mauro is dean of the Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing.