OU Hudson College of Public Health Makes Impact at OPHA 2024 Conference

On November 8-9, members of the OU Hudson College of Public Health (HCOPH) gathered with public health professionals, students, and advocates from across Oklahoma at the 2024 Oklahoma Public Health Association (OPHA) Conference, held at Northeastern State University in Broken Arrow. This year’s theme, Building Common Ground in Public Health, underscored the importance of collaboration across agencies, sectors, and institutions to advance health outcomes for Oklahomans.

The conference offered a packed two-day schedule of presentations, networking opportunities, and innovative discussions. One of the event highlights was a keynote address by Dr. Deanna J. Wathington, 2024-2025 President of the American Public Health Association (APHA) and Director of REACHUP, Inc. Dr. Wathington shared insights on building coalitions, supporting public health equity, and bridging gaps in healthcare access.

As a major sponsor of OPHA 2024, HCOPH had a strong presence at the conference. Faculty and students not only showcased their cutting-edge research through poster and oral presentations, but also engaged conference attendees at the college’s exhibitor table. Students and public health professionals alike learned about HCOPH’s national accreditation, robust online program offerings, and upcoming opportunities to join the OU public health community. HCOPH representatives also handed out popular college-branded swag, building excitement among alumni, community friends and students exploring careers in public health.

The OPHA conference continues to serve as an inspiring reminder of the power of public health to unite people and organizations for positive change. By coming together to share research, strategies, and best practices, HCOPH faculty, staff, and students are leading the charge to improve health outcomes in Oklahoma and beyond.