The USF College of Public Health (COPH) is part of a national effort to create the healthiest nation in one generation. USF Bulls and members of the local community are invited to join the movement (virtually) and get involved today!

Each year National Public Health Week is held during the first full week of April and is organized by the American Public Health Association (APHA), a government-based professional organization for public health professionals that prides itself on influencing federal policy and bringing together members from all fields of public health. The week is observed to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight important health issues.

This year’s observance falls on April 5-11 centering on the theme, “Building Bridges to Better Health.”

Kicking off the week, the Chiles Center will be holding the first part of their webinar series for their 25^th Anniversary on April 5. Speakers, including Dean Donna Petersen, former COPH Dean and Chiles Center Founding Director Charles Mahan and more, will be discussing the Chiles Center history and future endeavors in making a difference for women, children and families. Stay tuned for the second half of the webinar series streaming on April 20.

On April 7, the COPH will be hosting its annual Public Health Awards Ceremony. Celebrate student academic achievements, cutting-edge research and alumni movers and shakers. The COPH will also be announcing the honorees of the Outstanding Alumni Award, the Excellence in Teaching Awardee and the Florida Outstanding Woman in Public Health.

The celebration continues with Give Life Day on April 14. One Blood, Be the Match and Donate Life Florida representatives will share how members of the USF Health community can give life to others. Make sure to sign up in advance here.

Be sure to view the full schedule of National Public Health Week events that includes a student organization expo, service opportunities, book drive and a host of other activities.

All events will be held virtually and access codes to Zoom of Microsoft Teams sessions will be provided to the COPH community prior to each event.

For more information on National Public Health Week, visit www.nphw.org or contact ekent@health.usf.edu.

Story by Caitlin Keough, USF College of Public Health