Thursday, October 17, 2024
HSC鈥檚 College of Public Health Dean Dharamsi at Healthier Texas Summit (second from left)
, dean of the at , was a recent speaker at the in Austin, where the state鈥檚 leading voices in public health and wellness came together to address their communities鈥� evolving needs and opportunities for change.
represents a growing movement of people, organizations and institutions committed to creating a culture of health and a thriving future for families and communities across the Lone Star State. This nonprofit works to bring people, organizations and communities together to take action that supports health for all, now and for generations to come. The organization鈥檚 vision is for every Texan to have equitable access to a long, happy and healthy life.
The summit brought together thought leaders and health champions to network, share
innovative ideas, collaborate on pressing public health issues and build cross-sector
relationships for a healthier Texas.
Attendees included representatives from academic research institutes, educational institutions covering K-12 and higher education, government, health care, non-profits, faith-based organizations and coalitions, public health, and private organizations and enterprises.
Keynote speakers included Dr. Michael C. Lu, dean of the University of California Berkeley School of Public Health; the Honorable Nelson William Wolff, former Bexar County judge; and Travis County judge Andy Brown.
A special session explored the role of schools of public health in advancing public and community health, with panelists presenting their priorities and initiatives regarding workforce readiness, communications with policymakers and collaborations with state agencies and community organizations.
HSC鈥檚 Dean Dharamsi was joined by other deans representing the University of Texas Medical Branch; University of Texas Southwestern School of Public Health; UT School of Public Health San Antonio; UTHealth Houston School of Public Health; Texas A&M School of Public Health; and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and School of Population and Public Health.
Dr. David Lakey, past commissioner of the , currently with The University of Texas System, served as moderator.
鈥淚t was a privilege to gather with the other deans of public health to explore how we can work collaboratively to build a healthier Texas,鈥� Dharamsi said. 鈥淲e are stronger when we work together, and I鈥檓 looking forward to partnering with my dean colleagues to develop joint projects that will help advance the quality of life in our state.鈥�
From - Community by Sally Crocker