As we share this year’s issue of Advances, I’m struck by the critical role our community plays as advocates for public health—especially at a time when trust in science and public health has been tested like never before. At the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, advocacy isn’t just something we do; it’s woven into our research, teaching, and service.
You’ll see this spirit of advocacy throughout the pages of this magazine. Our feature story spotlights faculty who are advancing evidence-based public health, pushing forward health equity for all populations, and warning policymakers and the public about urgent risks we can’t afford to ignore. Their work reflects our shared mission: making health a human right.
This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Health Equity Work Group, which continues to bring together researchers, students, practitioners, and communities to advance healthier, more equitable futures. It’s a powerful example of collaboration that makes a lasting impact, and it reminds us that change happens when we listen, learn, and act together.
Elsewhere in these pages, you’ll find stories that illustrate the breadth and depth of our school’s advocacy. You’ll read about faculty exploring the promise—and the limits—of artificial intelligence. You’ll learn how we’re helping protect young minds by investigating how Type 1 diabetes affects brain development in children, which could ultimately shape interventions and improve lifelong health. Plus, you will discover how a One Health approach to preventing animal-borne diseases reflects our leadership in anticipating and addressing emerging threats.
You will also meet members of our community, like PhD student Ifrah Abshir, whose lived experience inspires her to champion access for those too often left behind, and alumnus Craig Meyer, who continues to advance public health through his professional data science role and his leadership on our alumni board.
It’s now been nearly two years since I stepped into the role of dean. In that time, my admiration for this community has only deepened. I see daily how our faculty, staff, students, and alumni work tirelessly to protect the health of communities here in Minnesota and around the world. You inspire hope and action at a time when it’s critically needed.
Thank you for being part of this work. Whether through your research, teaching, advocacy, or partnership, you are helping us move public health forward. I hope the stories in this issue leave you as inspired as I am by the courage, creativity, and expertise of our SPH community.
Warmly,
Melinda Pettigrew
Dean and Mayo Chair
