Month: November 2024

2024 CPHA Conference

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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.

    12th Week 2024 – Wednesday Night Activities

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    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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    Join UConn Public Health Sciences in Supporting Survivors

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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.

    Dive into Public Health Research with Dr. Brugge at Our 12th Week Webinar

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    photo of doug brugge
    Join us virtually on Thursday, November 14th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm via Teams Webinar for our bi-annual 12th Week Series, featuring renowned public health expert Dr. Doug Brugge.

    Dr. Brugge holds a PhD in cellular and developmental biology and an MS in industrial hygiene from Harvard University. He currently serves as the Professor and Chair of the Department of Public Health Sciences at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. With an extensive background in community-based research, Dr. Brugge has dedicated much of his career to advocating for vulnerable populations. His work includes over a decade of research on the health effects of traffic-related ultrafine particle pollution, as well as collaborations with uranium mining communities, particularly in the Navajo Nation. Dr. Brugge currently collaborates with the Hartford-based Community Research Alliance and has published approximately 200 research papers, with over 50 focused on pollution and public health.

    The 12th Week Series is designed to facilitate engaging conversations and deepen your knowledge in public health research. Don’t miss this chance to learn from Dr. Brugge’s extensive experience and research.

    How to Attend:
    Please register using the invite link provided. Your participation is encouraged—these sessions offer a fantastic way to connect with experts and expand your understanding of critical public health issues.

    We look forward to welcoming you to this insightful event. Thank you, and see you there!

    Join Us for the 12th Week Series Webinar with Kayla Edgeworth

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    photo of Kayla Edgeworth

    We’re excited to invite you to our bi-annual 12th Week Series event! Join us virtually on Tuesday, November 12th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm via Teams Webinar for an evening of insightful discussion and community learning.

    Our featured speaker, Kayla Edgeworth, serves as the Community Educator for Prudence Crandall Center Inc., an organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and supporting survivors. Kayla holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology from the University of New Haven and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice. Kayla’s diverse experience includes Prevention Education, Family and Child Advocacy, and Crisis Intervention with several nonprofit organizations in Hartford and New Britain.

    The 12th Week Series is designed to be an engaging learning experience, and your participation plays a key role in fostering this environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding, gain insights from an expert in community education, and connect with others in our field.

    How to Attend:
    To join, please use the registration link provided in your invite. Be sure to reserve your spot—your participation is highly encouraged!

    We look forward to connecting with you for this meaningful event. Thank you, and see you there!