The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine is committed to the recruitment, retention and graduation of students from minority groups which are underrepresented in medicine. This commitment dates back to the late 1800's, as highlighted in the Historical Timeline. Expanding upon this commitment, the School of Medicine established the first Office of Minority Affairs in the nation in1968 under the leadership of Dr. Helen O. Dickens who was appointed Associate Dean for Minority Affairs.

The office is now known as the Office for Diversity and Community Outreach in Undergraduate Medical Education and is affiliated with a similar office with a similar name, the Office of Diversity and Community Outreach. This latter office is largely responsible for the recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority faculty, residents and fellows. Additionally, it has the leadership  role in community health activities for the University of Pennsylvania Health System as well as for the School of Medicine.