Master of Public Health

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Meet Julie-Ann Williams! She received wonderful news about a fellowship that she will be starting after graduation, with the Moses/Weitzman Health System (MWHS).

The Moses/Weitzman Health System (MWHS) Administrative Fellowship is a 12-month program providing hands-on leadership training in healthcare operations at an innovative, primary care-focused health system based in Middletown, CT. Fellows gain experience across key areas like operations, finance, IT, and research, with opportunities to explore electives such as clinical departments and affiliates like NIMAA and ConferMED. The program develops leaders skilled in improving care quality, managing health centers, fostering innovation, and addressing healthcare challenges. With a competitive salary and benefits, this fellowship is ideal for postgraduates aspiring to drive community health transformation.

Congratulations on your fellowship! Can you tell us more about the fellowship and what you’ll be focusing on in this new role?

Williams: Thank you so much. This is an administrative fellowship that is project based, providing me with experience in operations and management. That means that over the course of a year I will rotate to different departments/ areas of the company. The duration of each rotation will vary on the length of the project and I am looking forward to my rotation in the Weitzman Institute as well as in Operations. Another amazing opportunity with an administrative fellowship is the access fellows have to executive leadership. I will be able to attend senior leadership meetings, and shadow the various faculty advisors.

What inspired you to pursue this opportunity, and how did your time in the UConn MPH program help prepare you for this fellowship?

Williams: My deep commitment to improving healthcare systems to provide compassionate and efficient care inspired me to pursue this opportunity. One experiences that stands out is my job at Avery Heights Nursing Home . I observed how small improvements in administrative efficiency could significantly impact the quality of care. This sparked my passion for healthcare administration, as I realized I could drive meaningful change through personal connections with residents and by improving the systems supporting their care. Another moment is the research I did during my LEND Fellowship this past year at UConn on healthcare disparities and hospital procedures. My research solidified my passion for driving meaningful change in healthcare administration.

The variety of classes I took during the UConn MPH program truly prepared me for the interview process. I was able to bring a perspective grounded in health disparities and population health, which aligned perfectly with the goals of the fellowship. Courses like Health Administration, Interprofessional Public Health Practice, and those involving group projects helped me grow as a leader and team player. With so much experience working on group projects, I had plenty of examples to share during the interviews.
The MPH program also made me a more well-rounded individual. I’ve taken a wide range of classes and worked alongside people from diverse fields, age groups, and educational backgrounds. In the future, I’ll need to collaborate with teams just as varied, and I’m incredibly grateful for the program. It gave me the chance to learn from so many perspectives and taught me valuable lessons that I’ll carry into my career.

What was the application process like, and what advice would you give to other students hoping to secure a similar fellowship?

Williams: The application process for administrative fellowships was mostly centralized through the NAFCAS website. While not all programs use it, the majority do, which makes it convenient. Applications were due by September 27, but it’s better to submit early since many programs start reviewing applications over a month before the deadline, with phone interviews beginning as early as September 9. For each program, you need three letters of recommendation, a cover letter, a personal statement, undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and most programs also have additional questions. These questions often focus on topics like diversity in healthcare delivery or demonstrating leadership qualities.
If you’re planning to apply for a fellowship, I strongly recommend starting the process early. It’s important to have a solid understanding of hospital and health system administration. I spent a lot of time doing my own research to learn how health systems operate and to understand the difference between strategies and operations.

When preparing for interviews, it’s key to research the specific hospital system—what makes it unique, why you want to work there, and what value you can bring to the organization.
It’s a very competitive process. Many of the other applicants I met were MHA candidates, but don’t let that discourage you. I didn’t have an internship at a hospital or a strong background in financial terminology, but as an MPH student, you bring valuable skills to the table. In the end, confidence in your knowledge and goals will go a long way in helping you secure a fellowship and move forward in your career.

Looking back, what specific skills or experiences from the UConn MPH program do you think will be most helpful in your new position?

Williams: 1. Public Health Leadership class- Leadership skills, goal setting, confidence, better understanding of myself. 2. Group projects- How to resolve problems, how to lead, critical thinking skills. 3. Practicum experience- time management, CHNA, how to find and communicate with stakeholders. 4.Public Health Research Methods class, where I learned step by step how to conduct quality research

What are you most excited about as you transition from graduate school to this new role, and what impact do you hope to make?

Williams: I am most excited to continue my learning opportunities post grad in an environment that encourages it. My long-term goal is to hold a leadership position where I can implement practical changes that benefit both patients and healthcare providers. My short-term goal is to deepen my understanding of healthcare administration by exploring various health system areas. I want to learn directly from executive leaders who can provide invaluable insights into effective management practices. This fellowship will help me bridge the gap in knowledge and experience, preparing me for future leadership roles prioritizing quality care.

The Connecticut Public Health Association’s (CPHA) Annual Conference took place on Monday, November 18th at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, CT, this year’s theme, “Building Healthier Communities Together: Centering on Community for Changemaking,” highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to improve public health outcomes.

Why This Year’s Theme was Important

Community engagement is the cornerstone of effective public health initiatives. By involving community members, organizational representatives, and researchers as equal partners, we can co-design impactful solutions, influence policies, and create programs that directly improve people’s lives.

Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) exemplifies this approach. It involves equitable partnerships where every participant shares expertise, ownership, and responsibility throughout the research process. As described by the American Public Health Association (APHA), CBPR aims to combine knowledge and action to enhance community health and well-being.

• Inspiring Keynotes & Sessions: Learn from leading voices in public health and explore how to center community engagement in changemaking efforts.
• Interactive Workshops: Gain hands-on experience in designing and implementing community-focused initiatives.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with public health professionals, researchers, and community advocates dedicated to building healthier communities.

Public Health Sciences: Proud Platinum Sponsor

We’re thrilled to announce that Public Health Sciences is a Platinum Sponsor for this year’s event. Dr. Stacey Brown represented our department and share insights about community-engaged research and its role in creating meaningful change.

Last night, the UConn Health Academic Rotunda came alive as students gathered in person to celebrate 12th Week, marking an evening filled with connection, education, and treats!

One of the night’s highlights was a Narcan training session, where students had the opportunity to learn hands-on skills for responding to opioid overdoses. This vital training session aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools they need to make a real difference in public health.

In addition to the training, the Public Health Student Organization hosted a lively bake sale, adding a sweet touch to the evening with cookies, brownies, and more. Students also had a unique opportunity to meet with their faculty advisors in person, allowing for meaningful discussions about academic progress, career goals, and future plans in the public health field.

Overall, the night was a perfect mix of learning, community, and fun. Check out the slideshow below to see all the moments captured from a memorable 12th Week celebration!

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The UConn Department of Public Health Sciences is proud to support the Prudence Crandall Center by gathering essential items for survivors of domestic violence. Your donations will directly assist individuals and families in need, providing the basics that help them begin a new chapter with dignity and security. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of survivors by meeting their immediate needs through thoughtful contributions.

We invite you to donate any of the following high-priority items, which will be delivered to the Prudence Crandall Center as part of our commitment to building healthier, safer communities.

Items Needed:

• Gift Cards: For groceries, clothing, gas, and essential household items (especially Visa, Walmart, Target, and grocery stores).
• Household Essentials: New bedding (sheets, blankets, comforters), towels, and small kitchen appliances.
• Personal Care Products: Hygiene items, including shampoo, soap, deodorant, and other daily essentials.
• Children’s Items: Diapers (sizes 4, 5, and 6), baby wipes, and new toys for various age groups.
• Cleaning Supplies: Laundry detergent, disinfectants, and other household cleaning products.

Your donations are crucial in helping us support the Prudence Crandall Center’s mission. Thank you for joining us in empowering survivors on their path to a brighter future.