Join UAMS for the Exciting Statewide Public Health Conference: Insights, Innovations, and Community Impact

Public health professionals gathered at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for the 2025 Arkansas Public Health Association and Arkansas Society of Public Health Education Conference. This event brought together experts from across the state to share insights, network, and discuss pressing health issues.

Emily Paul, the former president of the society, emphasized the importance of unity in public health. She highlighted how conferences like this allow professionals to learn about trends and share resources. “It connects individuals and organizations, helping everyone work better together,” she said.

Dr. Bala Simon, the new president of the Arkansas Public Health Association and faculty member at UAMS, stressed that all health is public health. “We need collaboration across various fields—whether it’s prevention, advocacy, or direct patient care,” he explained. The conference aimed to unite over 5,000 public health professionals in Arkansas to create actionable plans for the state.

One significant focus of the conference was improving maternal and child health. Dr. Alex Marshall and Dr. Clare Brown presented their findings on the challenges faced by Arkansas families, promoting further research and education on these critical issues.

Dr. Quinyatta Mumford, founder of Village Public Health, brought attention to the sexual health crisis among youth. Her presentation, “It Starts Here: The Role of Health Educators in Addressing the Sexual Health Crisis Among Youth,” sparked important conversations about community solutions. “Being in a room with fellow public health workers reminded me of our collective power,” she shared.

Statistics show that public health funding can reduce childhood obesity rates and improve maternal health outcomes. A report from the CDC indicates that states with robust public health initiatives see a 20% improvement in health metrics over those without such programs. This stresses the need for continued investment in public health efforts.

Ariel Morrow, a current student in UAMS’s College of Public Health, found the conference invaluable. “It was more than just academic; it was a commitment to making a difference in our communities,” she noted. The connections made and lessons learned are crucial in shaping the future of public health in Arkansas.

For further reading on public health initiatives and their impacts, check out the CDC’s [Public Health Partnerships](https://www.cdc.gov/publichealthgateway/partnerships.html) page.

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