Last week, the Milken Institute School of Public Health at GW proudly celebrated National Public Health Week with a full lineup of eight dynamic, in-person events that brought our community together to learn, connect, and act. Thanks to the outstanding leadership of the Public Health Student Association (PHSA), the week offered something for everyone—from thought-provoking discussions and service projects to celebrations of our broader public health community.
“We wanted to create a week that was meaningful, energizing, and inclusive—and I think we did just that,” said Allegra Mbwetshangol, PHSA President. “It was amazing to see our community come together to learn, give back, and celebrate everything that makes GWSPH special.”
The week kicked off with a major milestone: GWSPH hosted the 30th Anniversary Celebration of National Public Health Week, led by the American Public Health Association (APHA). The event explored both the challenges and wins of the past 30 years—touching on topics like misinformation in public health, equity, and the power of advocacy—and offered a powerful reminder of how much progress has been made, and how much work remains.
“Our students, faculty, and staff came together to make this week a vibrant reflection of what public health is all about—collaboration, action, and compassion,” said Dean Lynn Goldman. “National Public Health Week is a time to celebrate how far we’ve come, but also to recommit ourselves to the work ahead. I’m so proud of our community for leading the way.”
The week also brought big names and big ideas to campus. The Redstone Global Center for Prevention and Wellness welcomed bestselling author John Green, whose new book, Everything is Tuberculosis, explores the global burden of TB and the urgent need for equity in public health systems. Green’s energy, humor, and humility made the conversation both deeply moving and refreshingly accessible—reminding us that storytelling has the power to change the way we see public health. He spoke passionately about the empathy gap in public health and how closing it requires not only data, but also human connection and compassion.
Other highlights included a meaningful and fun, meal-packing event hosted by our undergraduate program in partnership with RISE Against Hunger, where GWSPH students, faculty, and staff packed more than 10,000 meals for communities in need. The Institute for Brain Health and Dementia, in partnership with WETA, hosted a moving and insightful panel on caregiving and dementia, elevating the voices of family caregivers and experts alike.
At our annual Community and Practicum Partner Appreciation Day, we honored the incredible organizations that support our students' growth and help extend the school’s reach into the communities we serve. The week closed on a fun note with a Public Health Trivia Night that tested knowledge and brought laughter and camaraderie to a packed room of students.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s National Public Health Week, which will take place April 6 - 12, 2026. Mark your calendars!