- This event has passed.
The Role of Academia in Public Health Research: Bridging Theory, Practice and Partnerships
September 24 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
On September 24, 2025, ASPPH held an ASPPH Presents webinar titled, The Role of Academia in Public Health Research: Bridging Theory, Practice, and Partnerships.
At a time when public health research funding is facing increasing challenges, the role of academic institutions in sustaining innovation and discovery is more vital than ever. This webinar explored how academia, despite tightening budgets, continues to lead collaborative, high-impact research initiatives that shape public health policy and practice.
ASPPH members, in partnership with organizations such as Research!America, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other key partners are finding creative, resourceful ways to drive scientific progress, develop life-saving interventions, and address pressing global health concerns.
We highlighted how these partnerships amplify academic research efforts, enable efficient resource sharing, and ensure that data-driven solutions reach the communities that need them most, even in the face of funding constraints.
In addition to showcasing member-led research, the webinar highlighted how ASPPH serves as the leading source for institutional public health research, providing data and insights that support evidence-based decision-making at both national and global levels.
Whether you are a researcher, educator, public health professional, policymaker, or organizational partner, this webinar will offer valuable insights into how academia remains a cornerstone of public health advancement through resilience, partnership, and purpose-driven research.
MODERATOR
Dr. M. Daniele Fallin, Dean of the Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, is a globally recognized leader in epidemiology and public mental health whose research has shaped understanding of genetic and environmental influences on complex diseases. She also serves as the Chair of the ASPPH Research Advisory Committee.
PANELISTS
Dr. Shawn Gibbs, Dean of Texas A&M University’s School of Public Health, is an industrial hygienist whose expertise is in the disruption of highly infectious diseases, such as COVID-19 and Ebola virus disease. He is dedicated to public service and improving health and well-being nationally, including in the state of Texas.
Dr. Melody Goodman, Dean of NYU School of Global Public Health, is a biostatistician and research methodologist whose partner-engaged, translational research develops solutions to improve urban health outcomes. She has published widely, advanced methods for community engagement, and received national recognition for her societal impact.
Tim Leshan, MPA, ASPPH’s Chief External Relations and Advocacy Officer, leads the organizations public affairs and advocacy efforts. With a strong policy and government affairs background, Tim also leads ASPPH’s Research Section, which convenes senior staff responsible for research compliance, administration, and investment strategies across our member institutions.