Author: Davis, Jini

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!

November Public Health Infosession

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November Infosession

Join us for an online information session scheduled for Tuesday, November 19th, where you’ll have the chance to delve into our Master’s in Public Health programs. This session promises to provide invaluable insights into the diverse realm of public health, helping you identify your interests and aspirations in this critical field of study.

Our information sessions will provide a platform for you to interact with our esteemed Program Directors who are experts in the field. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, engage in discussions, and gain a deep understanding of the unique advantages of UConn’s curriculum. Learn how our program is meticulously designed to prepare you for a successful and fulfilling career in the dynamic field of public health.

We understand that choosing the right graduate program is a significant decision, and we are here to support you in making an informed choice that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Join us at these sessions and embark on an exciting journey towards a Master’s in Public Health at UConn.

Tue, Nov 19, 2024 6:00 PM – Tue, Nov 19, 2024 7:00 PM (UTC-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Register here

We look forward to having you attend the event!

Master’s of Public Health Infosession Dates

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Save the dates!

Join us for a series of virtual information sessions to explore UConn’s Master’s in Public Health (MPH) programs, a great opportunity for prospective students to discover what public health is all about. Whether you’re considering a career in public health or looking to enhance your professional skills, these sessions will help you understand how our MPH programs can support your goals.

Each session will feature our expert Program Directors, giving you direct access to ask questions and learn about the unique aspects of UConn Public Health. Discover how our curriculum prepares students for successful careers in public health, tackling real-world challenges in areas like epidemiology, health policy, and global health.

If you’re thinking about pursuing a master’s degree, especially in public health, this is the perfect chance to see how UConn’s MPH programs stand out. Don’t miss this opportunity to get all your questions answered and learn how a graduate degree from UConn can set you on the path to making a difference in communities around the world. Join us and take the next step towards your Master’s in Public Health!

The following dates are:

  • Tuesday, November 19th 2024 6-7pm
  • Tuesday, December 10th 2024 6-7pm
  • Tuesday, January 28th 2025 6-7pm
  • Tuesday, February 11th 2025 6-7pm
  • Tuesday, March 25th 2025 6-7pm

QPR Training 9/27: Fourth Friday PHLAME

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In recognition of September being National Suicide Prevention Month, we will be hosting a QPR training session on Friday, September 27th from 10:00 – 11:30am. This is a vital tool in recognizing the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to Question, Persuade, and Refer someone to help.

This is the first event as part of the Fourth Friday PHLAME initiative (Public Health Learning and Action through Multidisciplinary Education), aimed at equipping our community with essential public health skills and knowledge.
This training will take place in Room U3071 A/B of 195 Farmington Ave with the option to join virtually. Use this link to register for this FREE training.

Exploring the Impact of Food Supplementation on Eastern Bluebirds and Their Parasites

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Mahima Mehta and Eastern Bluebird to the right

(Mahima Mehta ’25, Photo Credit: Tharun Palla) (Eastern Bluebird, Photo Credit: mattcudaphotos)

One of our MPH students, Mahima Mehta and her colleagues recently worked on project entitled, Understanding spatiotemporal effects of food supplementation on host-parasite interactions using community-based science.

Sarah A. Knutie, Rachel Bahouth, Matthew A. Bertone, Caroline Webb, Mahima Mehta, Mia Nahom, Rachael M. Barta, Sharan Ghai, Ashley C. Love, Sydney Horan, Alexandria Soldo, Elizabeth Cochrane, Jenna Bartholomew, Emily Cowan, Heather Bjerke, Susan L. Balenger, Michael W. Butler, Allison Cornell, Ashley C. Kennedy, Virginie Rolland, Elizabeth M. Schultz, Mark Stanback, Conor C. Taff, Gregory F. Albery bioRxiv 2022.06.02.494595;

How does feeding wild birds impact their health and interactions with parasites? This question led to the creation of the Nest Parasite Community Science Project, a large-scale community-based science initiative that collected data from bird enthusiasts across the eastern United States.

Key Findings:

  • Community Involvement: Over three years (2018-2021), 68 dedicated nest box stewards from 26 states monitored 646 eastern bluebird nests.
  • Feeding Practices: Stewards provided mealworms or suet to some bluebirds and recorded their nesting success, including the number of eggs laid, hatched, and fledged.
  • Health Benefits: Food supplementation generally boosted fledgling numbers and success rates, indicating better overall health for the birds.
  • Parasite Patterns: The study identified common nest parasites like blow flies, fleas, and mites. Blow flies were more prevalent in northern areas, and their abundance was influenced by food supplementation, although the effects varied yearly.
  • Regional Differences: Interestingly, more southern stewards provided food compared to their northern counterparts, differing from other community-based projects’ findings.

Conclusion: While food supplementation increased the fitness of eastern bluebirds, it didn’t consistently protect them against parasites across all years. This research underscores the value of coordinated, long-term studies across various locations to understand complex ecological interactions and inform effective wildlife management strategies.

For a deeper dive into the study, check out the full article on bioRxiv.

Mental Health Tips – Summer Edition

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Summer’s here, and while the days are longer and the sun is shining, it’s crucial to keep up with your fitness routine despite the rising temperatures. Regular physical activity not only benefits your physical health but also boosts your mental well-being. Here are some tips to help you stay active and cool this summer:

1. Take Early Morning or Late Evening Walks

The coolest parts of the day are early in the morning or late in the evening. Take advantage of these times to go for a walk or jog. Not only will you avoid the peak heat, but you’ll also enjoy the tranquility that comes with these quieter hours.

2. Dive into Swimming for a Full-Body Workout

Swimming is an excellent way to get a full-body workout while staying cool. Whether you prefer leisurely laps or more intense swimming sessions, the water provides resistance and helps tone your muscles.

3. Try Indoor Workouts Like Yoga or Pilates

When the heat outside is too much to handle, move your workout indoors. Yoga and Pilates are perfect for staying fit without overheating. These low-impact exercises improve flexibility, strength, and mental clarity.

4. Join a Water Aerobics Class for Fun in the Pool

Water aerobics combines the benefits of aerobic exercise with the cooling effects of water. These classes are a fun way to get your heart pumping and muscles working, all while enjoying the refreshing pool environment.

5. Explore Shaded Trails for Biking or Hiking

If you love outdoor adventures, look for shaded trails for biking or hiking. Trees provide natural shade, helping you stay cooler. Plus, being surrounded by nature can be incredibly refreshing and invigorating.

Stay Hydrated and Dress Smart

No matter how you choose to stay active, remember to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout. Wear light, breathable clothing to help regulate your body temperature and avoid overheating.

By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can maintain your fitness levels and enjoy the summer without compromising your health. Your body and mind will thank you for staying active, cool, and hydrated!

For more health tips and updates, follow us on social media. Stay connected with the UConn MPH program to get the latest information and inspiration for your public health journey.

#UConnMPH #SummerFitness #PublicHealth

Read more blog posts here: Public Health Sciences Donates 615 Items to Cornerstone Foundation
Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more health tips and updates!

Public Health Sciences Donates 615 Items to Cornerstone Foundation

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In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Department of Public Health Sciences has recently donated an impressive 615 items to the Cornerstone Foundation in Vernon, CT. This generous contribution, consisting of a variety of food, clothing, books, and hygiene products, is set to make a significant impact on those in need.

The department’s initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting the local community and promoting public health. Each item donated is a testament to the collective effort and dedication of the department’s staff and volunteers, who are eager to make a positive difference.

This donation not only helps to meet the immediate needs of individuals but also fosters a sense of hope and solidarity within the community. The Department of Public Health Sciences continues to inspire with its proactive approach to community service, proving that together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for all.

  • Coltin (volunteer), Shomrita Barua, Stefanie Farkas, Denise Parris, Christine Filanowicz (the clothing bank director), Holly Samiouck, Alyse Visconti, David Rulnick, and Lisa Cook.