Welcoming a New Academic Year with Purpose and Momentum

As we welcome students back to campus this fall, whether returning to continue their academic journey or joining us for the very first time, there is renewed energy and optimism across the Colorado School of Public Health. The start of a new academic year brings fresh opportunities for learning, discovery, and connection. It also marks the beginning of a busy season of events and activities that showcase the impact of our school and the strength of our community.

Since beginning my tenure as Dean in 2023, I have had the privilege of witnessing tremendous growth and evolution across our school. Our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners have demonstrated courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. Together, we have strengthened collaborations across disciplines and institutions, improved our national rankings and research standing, navigated challenges related to grant funding, and expanded support for our students through the generosity of donors and benefactors who believe deeply in our work.

The momentum across our school continues to grow as our faculty and staff are increasingly sought after for their expertise and leadership. In recent weeks, we celebrated several major achievements, including the establishment of our first Endowed Chair of Innovation. David Conti, PhD, head of the Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, was appointed the inaugural chairholder. Beth Carlton, PhD, recently advanced her research on the growing impact that climate has on the spread of infectious diseases. Faculty members are also receiving broader recognition, with Tiffany Sanchez, PhD, featured in a Rocky Mountain PBS documentary on water quality in the Arkansas River Valley. Several of our ColoradoSPH team members participated in a roundtable with Colorado Lieutenant Governor Diane Primavera, offering critical insights on long COVID and how patients are coping. These are just a few examples of how we make a meaningful impact and demonstrate our indispensable role in the state.

We also achieved a historic first by securing an NIH T32 training grant. The five-year, $1.95 million award from the NIH supports three years of training for three doctoral students annually in Epidemiology or Biostatistics. Beyond its financial investment, this grant represents a commitment to developing the next generation of biomedical researchers and strengthening a critical area of excellence within our academic programs. Trainees will receive support for stipends, tuition, training expenses, and professional development while building expertise in high-dimensional data analysis. Equally important, the program will help prepare students to effectively communicate complex findings and translate data-intensive research into meaningful public health impact.

The year ahead also brings opportunities to come together as a community. On September 8, we will honor the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, whose contributions to Colorado and Indigenous communities left a lasting impression on our state. We will host our first-ever Climate & Health Week, October 5-8, exploring one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. And on October 22, we will convene leaders from public health, community organizations, and industry for Building What's Next: Private Innovation for Public Health, a conversation about partnerships and innovations shaping the future of health. I encourage you to explore our full lineup of events and join us throughout the semester.

We are also continuing to evolve our educational offerings to meet the needs of a rapidly changing public health landscape. New courses exploring public health and artificial intelligence, expanded microcertification opportunities, and other curricular enhancements are helping ensure our students graduate prepared to lead in an increasingly complex world.

Recently, Dr. Shanta Zimmer, Executive Vice Dean of Medical Education at the CU School of Medicine, described the Colorado School of Public Health as the "school for the greater good." I cannot think of a more fitting description. Every day, our faculty, staff, students, and partners advance research, education, and practice that improve health and well-being for communities across Colorado and beyond.

The accomplishments and opportunities highlighted here are only a few examples of the extraordinary work taking place throughout our school. They reflect not only how far we have come, but also the remarkable potential that lies ahead. Thank you for being part of this community and for your continued commitment to improving health for all.