The VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion (CHERP) was established in 2001 by HSR&D as a national Center of Excellence focused on detecting, understanding, and reducing disparities in health and health care in vulnerable populations. This strong collaboration between the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (VAPHS) and Philadelphia VA Medical Center (PVAMC) in VISN4 and their respective academic affiliates (University of Pittsburgh and University of Pennsylvania) was built upon the collective and complementary strengths of the investigators at both sites to target an area of investigation of highest priority to the VA Healthcare System and the nation as a whole. Built upon a track record of scholarship, cross-center research collaborations, development and retention of highly accomplished investigators, service, and well-established partnerships, CHERP became a Center of Innovation (COIN) that has measurable impact on the quality and equity of Veteran health care. CHERP is VA’s way to communicate the endeavors and outcomes of the researchers who are investigating ways to make VA better able to provide excellent care and service. CHERP includes doctors, researchers, clinicians and scholars dedicated equitable health care for Veterans.