In an era of profound uncertainty for public health and related fields, advocacy has never been more essential. Today, each of us, whether a student, practitioner, educator, researcher, or policymaker, must embrace the role of advocate at every level of government and within every community.  

This session will explore the current political and policy environment and examine recent advocacy efforts, highlighting both successes and ongoing challenges. We will address pressing issues such as unpredictable federal, state, and local funding streams, debates around vaccines and other critical public health policies, and the consequences of inadequate public health infrastructure.  At the same time, we face a historic opportunity: to empower and inspire a new generation of leaders who are ready to navigate these challenges, shape solutions, and drive progress. Public health needs professionals across disciplines, whether they work in government, academia, nonprofits, or the private sector, who are equipped with the tools and confidence to be effective advocates.  Our panelists will share strategies for meaningful advocacy, offer practical tools for engaging decision-makers, and reflect on the power of collective action. They will also seek to inspire the next generation of leaders to step forward, not only to sustain the public health workforce, but to transform it for the future.  

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the advocacy landscape, actionable skills to elevate their own voices, and the motivation to champion public health in whatever career path they choose.

Panelists include Tim Leshan, chief external relations & advocacy officer at ASPPH, and Boris Lushniak, dean at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health.

A Zoom link will be sent to all virtual attendees on the morning of Friday, October 24.