Discover Innovative Research by Public Health Students at the Creative Scholars Showcase | Newsroom

On April 9, the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health celebrated its first annual Creative Scholars Showcase. This event marked Public Health Week and was themed “Protecting, Connecting, and Thriving.”

Students presented research on important topics such as mental health access in rural areas, domestic violence prevention, and combating food insecurity worldwide.

Dean Stuart Tedders emphasized the blend of research and real-world application. He noted, “When you combine research with practice, you can make a real difference.”

One notable presenter was Emmanuel Azu, a doctoral student focusing on biostatistics. He shared his findings on school feeding programs in Nigeria. Azu remarked on how this research improved his skills. “It has really helped me improve my writing and presentation skills,” he stated. He aims to enhance health data management in underserved communities, highlighting the importance of connecting with those communities.

Another student, Tobi Oloyede, presented her project on child advocacy, stemming from a class on communications. She created materials for Child Advocacy Services in Southeast Georgia. Oloyede learned that combining data with effective design is crucial for engaging the community. “Our design and language were inspired by specific objectives,” she explained.

Plenary speaker Dr. Stacy Smallwood discussed the role of faith communities in addressing public health issues like HIV/AIDS stigma. He underscored how a multidisciplinary approach can empower individuals facing illness and social challenges.

According to a recent survey by the American Public Health Association, 88% of respondents believe community engagement is vital for improving public health outcomes. This aligns with the showcase’s mission, as highlighted by Research Associate Dean Tilicia Mayo-Gamble, who helped organize the event. She believes that sharing research fosters collaboration and enhances the college’s impact in the community.

This showcase not only celebrated student achievement but also highlighted the importance of communication in public health. By connecting research with community needs, these students are on the path to making meaningful contributions to society.

For more information on public health initiatives, you can explore resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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