SPH in the Community
Community Partners Awards
Dean Finnegan and Javon Bea, Mercy Health Systems
It’s no secret that public health is a discipline rooted in the concept of collaboration, as “health” extends beyond the individual to encompass the overall health of the community. Likewise, population health is profoundly shaped by the collective beliefs, values and behaviors of everyone who lives in the community. So it makes sense that the best public health endeavors draw upon the expertise of varied community partners.
Our school has a long tradition of teaming up with local agencies and organizations to improve the health of Minnesotans. These partnerships play a key role in transforming scientific discoveries to community impact. In strained economic times, collaboration becomes essential. It pools resources, allows for best practices to be shared efficiently, and keeps the school aligned with state priorities and community needs.
We host an annual event to formally thank community partners for helping to enrich the school’s research, education, and outreach efforts. These partners include mentors to SPH students, adjunct faculty members, and research colleagues throughout the state.
Each year, the school’s leadership chooses up to two organizations and one individual who have shown exceptional dedication to the mission of the school for Community Partner Awards.