Meet the Candidates:

At-Large (3-year term commitment)

Name: Juan Vazquez

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

The work that I do in my current position at CDPHE revolves around Maternal and Child Health. I am a Data Analyst for the Baby & You program formally known as Health eMoms. The purpose of this program is to learn more about birthing parents' mental and physical health pre-, during, and post-pregnancy, as well as, the child from birth to 3 years of age. The goal of our program is to provide insight during important points of time to allow equitable access to resources and care for both birthing parents and child.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

Currently, I have been a part of the committee revamping the CPHA awards and have been enjoying the work that we are doing. I have learned so much from this committee and have enjoyed the conversations around the focus of health equity and racial justice that CPHA is trying to achieve. I believe that joining the CPHA board gives me the opportunity to assist CPHA in working towards their values and the amazing partnerships and learning that being a part of the board can bring

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

Skills that I believe make me a strong candidate is my ability to be flexible and adaptable. I believe that when working towards eliminating health disparities and addressing racist public health practices being adaptable and flexible is vital. In my work that I do with Baby & You one of our values is how we can collect valuable data to assist in achieving equitable access to health care and resources for birthing parents and children. I believe this value is aligned with CPHA's values. Additionally, I am someone who is always looking to grow and better myself and learn from others, which through partnerships with other board members is vital to help not just myself grow but to allow the entire group to grow together.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

Level of Experience:

0 No Knowledge or experience
1 Some Knowledge around the skillset but no experience putting it into action
2 Moderate knowledge and experience applying the skillset
3 Extensive knowledge and experience applying the skillset

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 2
Financial Literacy: 3 Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 0
Non-Profit Governance: 1
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 1
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 2 Community Engagement: 2

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice to me is defined as achieving a point where people of color and communities of color are able to access all opportunities, benefits and rights that is available. Health Equity to me means for individuals, families, or communities to have access to the mental and physical health that they would like through needed resources, such as healthy food options, health care/insurance, transportation, education, etc.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

In our program, we are working to understand the appropriate way to display our data to help improve the lives of underserved communities in Colorado such as race/ethnic groups or those in urban and rural communities. My commitment to grow racial justice and health equity in the work that I do is learning from those within the groups to understand what they truly need or what would be most beneficial to them based on what they value. Additionally, being a part of the Latino population I want to be sure that everyone can access resources or programs they would like that would assist in helping them achieve the life, physical, and mental health they would like.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I feel that I could contribute the most around working with community partners to learn from them and apply that insight and skills to the efforts made by CPHA. Additionally, being a part of and experiencing racial injustice it is something I try and be sure I am work towards in all my work and never forgetting my roots. I believe because I am still early in my career there is always plenty to learn from those who have been working towards racial justice and health equity. I would need more support in thinking outside of the box or fine tuning my ideas so that as an association we can truly achieve our goal within Colorado.

Name: Vincent LaBarca

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

My engagement in public health is extensive and diverse, reflecting my broad clinical background as a family nurse practitioner and my role as an assistant professor at Regis University. Clinically, I have a wide range of expertise in areas including home health, cardiology, urgent care, and psychiatry. This varied experience allows me to address a spectrum of health needs- from managing chronic cardiac conditions to providing acute care and supporting mental health. Each of these areas contributes significantly to public health by addressing different aspects of community wellness and healthcare needs. I extend this diverse clinical experience to public health education in my academic role. I focus on teaching and researching subjects like health promotion and policy, integrating my varied clinical experiences. This not only enhances the learning of future healthcare professionals but also prepares them to address a wide range of public health concerns effectively. Together, these roles demonstrate my deep engagement in public health across multiple dimensions, including direct patient care in various clinical settings and educating the next generation of nurses. This comprehensive involvement is crucial for addressing our communities' complex and evolving public health needs.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

Joining the CPHA board excites me as it presents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academic research and practical public health initiatives. My background in nursing and teaching public health, health promotion, and health policy has instilled a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this field. Being on the board would allow me to contribute this knowledge toward shaping effective health policies and programs in Colorado. I am particularly passionate about addressing health disparities and believe my experience in diverse healthcare settings can bring valuable insights into developing inclusive and equitable public health strategies. Additionally, the prospect of collaborating with a team of dedicated professionals to enhance the health and well-being of Colorado communities is incredibly motivating. This role offers a platform to influence meaningful change at a broader level, aligning with my commitment to advancing public health education and practice.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

My extensive clinical background as a family nurse practitioner and my academic role make me a strong candidate for the At Large board member position. Having worked with diverse patient populations in Colorado, from the unhoused to the wealthy, and in settings ranging from assisted living facilities to public schools to shelters, I bring a unique perspective on the varied public health needs across the state. This experience has honed my ability to understand and address health disparities effectively. As an assistant professor, I am deeply engaged in scholarship, particularly health policy and health disparities. This academic involvement has equipped me with comprehensive knowledge in these areas, enabling me to contribute valuable insights to the board. Notably, I have developed a course focused on reducing health disparities, underlining my commitment to this critical aspect of public health. I align strongly with CPHA's mission and values, especially its efforts to become an anti-racist organization. My practical experience and academic background enable me to foster a focus on eliminating health disparities and addressing unjust public health practices. I am eager to leverage my expertise and experience to represent Colorado's diverse public health landscape on the CPHA board and contribute to impactful projects and initiatives.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 0
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 2

Fundraising: 0
Grant Writing: 0
Non-Profit Governance: 0
Effective Communication: 2
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 1
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice and health equity are deeply interwoven concepts central to my professional and personal ethos. To me, racial justice in the context of healthcare is about actively recognizing and dismantling systemic inequalities and biases that disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities. It's about ensuring that everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity, has equal access to quality healthcare and that the healthcare system itself is free from discriminatory practices and policies. Health equity goes hand-in-hand with this, as it means striving for a world where everyone has a fair and just opportunity to flourish. This involves addressing and eliminating systemic barriers such as poverty, implicit (and explicit) bias, and the privatization of healthcare. In my practice and teaching, these concepts translate into advocating for policies that address these disparities, educating future nurses about the necessity of cultural humility and reflective practice, and ensuring that my approach to patient care is always inclusive and mindful of these disparities. In short, racial justice and health equity represent a commitment to creating a healthcare system and a society that is equitable, just, and respectful of all individuals and their diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

My commitment to racial justice and health equity is a personal passion and a professional obligation. As a family nurse practitioner, I have actively worked to provide equitable care to diverse patient populations across Colorado, from unhoused individuals to those in affluent communities and in varied settings like shelters and assisted living facilities. These experiences have exposed me to the stark health disparities that exist across different racial and socioeconomic groups, reinforcing my dedication to health equity. In my academic role as an assistant professor, I have deepened my commitment by engaging in scholarship focused on health policy and disparities. I developed and teach a course centered on reducing health disparities, which functions as an educational tool and a platform for advocating change. This course challenges students to understand and address the root causes of health inequities, particularly those stemming from racial and ethnic discrimination. Additionally, I have consistently sought opportunities for growth and learning in this area. This includes participating in workshops and seminars on critical pedagogy and holistic education, staying up-to-date on health policy research, and engaging in conversations and initiatives that focus on anti-racist practices in healthcare. Through my professional practice and academic endeavors, I am committed to continuing my growth in understanding and addressing racial justice and health equity and applying this knowledge in ways that make tangible differences in the communities I serve.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

Areas of Contribution: (1) Community Engagement and Outreach: My extensive experience with diverse patient populations equips me to contribute effectively to CPHA's community engagement efforts. I understand the unique health challenges of different communities, which is vital for tailoring public health initiatives to reach and support marginalized and underserved groups effectively. (2) Cultural Humility Training and Education: Leveraging my academic expertise, I can significantly contribute to developing and implementing training programs focused on cultural humility and reducing implicit bias in healthcare. (3) Health Disparities Research and Analysis: My background in health policy and disparities places me in a strong position to assist CPHA with research and analysis, identifying critical areas of health inequity and developing strategies to address them. (4) Policy Advocacy and Legislative Processes: With a solid foundation in health policy, I can contribute to CPHA's efforts in policy advocacy and navigating legislative processes, helping to shape impactful health policies at the state level. Areas for Support: (1) Program Development: While I have experience in clinical and educational settings, I would benefit from support in developing comprehensive public health programs. Guidance in this area would enhance my ability to contribute to program design and implementation in line with CPHA's objectives. (2) Strategic Partnerships and Networking: I seek support in building strategic partnerships and networking. Learning from experienced professionals in these areas would spark collaborations that amplify the reach and impact of CPHA's initiatives.

Name: Clinton Whatley

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I'm actively engaged in the following areas: 1. Substance Use and syringe exchange: I'm managing a program that provides safer alternatives for individuals with substance use disorders. I oversee initiatives that promote education and awareness about the risks of substance use. 2. Overdose Prevention: I'm working on implementing initiatives to prevent and respond to drug overdoses. 3. Sexual Health: I'm implementing harm reduction strategies into our sexual health program to address the intersectionality of substance use and sexual health. 4. Education and Outreach: I'm conducting community outreach to raise awareness about harm reduction principles and services available. 5. Infectious Disease Prevention: I'm implementing strategies to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, particularly among high-risk populations. 6. Policy Advocacy: Engaging in advocacy efforts to promote evidence-based harm reduction policies at the local and state levels. 7. Community Engagement: Building relationships with community members and organizations to better understand local needs and tailor harm reduction programs accordingly. 8. Data Monitoring and Evaluation: Overseeing the collection and analysis of data to evaluate the effectiveness of our harm reduction program and inform evidence-based practices.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I'm so passionate about public health. I have a genuine passion for improving the health and well-being for all. I am excited about the community engagement opportunities and and the influence and impact that members of the board have. I would love to contribute to important decisions that can have a significant impact on public health initiatives. I am also excited to learn from other board members. I love being exposed to a wide range of issues, trends and innovation currently happening in public health. I know that contributing to the great good would be a source of fulfillment for me. I want to be part of an effort that can not only positively impact the greater community but also impact public health professionals in a profound way.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

I believe that I have a combination of skills, experience and qualities that make me a strong candidate for this position.Public Health Expertise: I am knowledgeable in current public health issues and trends. Leadership Skills: I have demonstrated leadership experience in professional and community settings.Strategic Thinking: I have the capacity to think strategically and could contribute to the long-term goals of CPHA.Collaboration and Teamwork: I have strong interpersonal skills and I'm able to work collaboratively with diverse populations. Communication Skills: I am an effective communicator that can use my communication skills to convey complex public health concepts to various audiences. I'm able to represent CPHA in public forums in the best possible light. Decision-Making: I have the ability to make decisions in the best interest of public health while considering all perspectives.Ethical Judgment: I'm committed to ethical behavior and I have the highest standards of integrity in public health decision-making.Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:I am committed to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion within public health practices and policies.Passion for Public Health: I'm passionate and dedicated to improving public health outcomes and addressing health disparities.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 2
Grant Writing: 3
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice means so much to me. It means fair and equitable treatment to all individuals regardless of their racial or ethnic background. It means addressing and dismantling systematic racism which includes discriminatory policies, practices and structures that contribute to unequal opportunities and outcomes based on someone's race. It also means advocating for change at all levels. New policies and practices need to be implemented to challenge those that perpetuate racial disparities. Health equity means equal access to all resources (including health resources), eliminating health disparities and recognizing and addressing the social determinants of health, such as income, education, housing and systemic racism that contributes to health inequities.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

I'm committed to dismantling systemic racism. I also acknowledge that individuals may experience multiple forms of discrimination and disadvantage based on intersecting identities such as race, gender, socioeconomic status while recognizing the unique challenges faced by these people who have to navigate multiple systems oppression and advocating for inclusive solutions.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I would contribute a lot to the community engagement piece. I would include all communities in the decision-making process and I would work to empower communities to actively participate in shaping their health outcomes. I could use more support in data collection and analysis. I would want to ensure that data and analysis considers and addresses racial and ethnic disparities.

Name: Lorna S Brass, MD

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

My volunteer work brought me to public health in the areas of prevention and control of infectious diseases. My graduate project was centered around building a training program for practitioners in foreign countries for use by an NGO. I am presently actively engaged on looking for work in these areas.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

While I am new to public health I am not new to health. I came to public health through my work as a FEMA volunteer medical professional during COVID. I'm excited to be part of working on health from a new perspective. As a member of the board, I can utilize my unique skill set to both inform and educate as well as improve communication with other health professionals.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

As a practicing surgeon, I bring a unique perspective to the organization. I have worked as an administrator of a large surgical department and served on committees within hospitals. I have helped develop and implement vaccination clinics on the fly and developed an educational program to teach practitioners how to treat cervical cancer in a resource-limited setting. I feel that my ability to cross the gap between medical professionals and public health practitioners is my 'super power'.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 1
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 0
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 1
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 1
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 1

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

The concept of health equity was certainly known in my circle of medical practice, but it wasn't until my study of public health that I understood the responsibility that the system of practice itself had for the perpetuation of the problems of inequity as well as the direct capacity to improve the problem. The other revelation was the impact that the non-clinical ( social determinants) of health had on the well-being of the population and the relationship that these factors have to racial justice. These of course are issues of fair housing and safe neighborhoods, education and economic opportunities, food security, and the like.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

I can't say I have much experience with racial justice, short of the lip service and feel-good protests I have participated in over the years. My commitment though is to use whatever position I find myself in to promote the concepts of equity as it applies to health and society at large, and to look for solutions that create sustainable change.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I feel that the area I can help promote is in the area of promoting protocols and systems of care related to maternal/infant health, an area in severe need of improvement both in our community and nationwide.

Name: Yadiel Tesfaye

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I am a recent graduate from the Colorado School of Public Health, concentrating in Community and Behavioral Health, with an emphasis in Global Health. Throughout my studies, I became more aware of the needs of people at the community level through various interventions through systematic thinking, theoretical construct, and social determinants of Health, as well as the need to address global health. I am currently working in data management for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Through this position, I actively identify data inconsistencies, improve data accuracy, as well as perform data analytics. Daily, I am engaged in communicable disease data systems. Through this work, I identify issues the the quality of data and perform queries from SQL to improve data accuracy. I also engaged in survey-based data. I also worked for the Children's Hospital Immunodeficiency Program (CHIP), which provides care for immigrants and refugees. A health assessment survey was provided to assess the overall well-being of immigrants and refugees. I worked on drafting the assessment survey, uploading data through RedCap, and analyzing the data through mean comparison and t-test. Through these engagements, I can tell stories of a community through data-driven research.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I am excited to be giving back to underserved communities through the boards of CPHA. During my time on the boards, I desire to make a difference for communities with low socioeconomic status as well as communities with health disparities. I desire to make a difference through the CPHA boards by policy and data analysis, as well as, working collaboratively with others. Working in a team setting excites me as I believe it increases productivity to decreases health disparities. As a recent graduate student, I am exiting to become a part of this community to make a difference in people's lives, as well as, I will also be applying what I learn from the School of Public Health, as I will be entering the field of public health. I am excited to apply my knowledge in real-world settings.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

The skills that I have acquired from the Colorado School Of Public Health and in my current role at CDPHE make me a strong candidate for CPHA boards. Skills I gained as a graduate student include community engagement, organizational development, data management, and data analysis (qualitative and quantitative). I have experience in R Studio, STATA, RedCap, SPSS, SAS, and Tableau. These experiences allow me to strengthen my skills working with data as I perform queries, analysis, and manipulation through various statistical software. I also have experience in policy analysis. I collaborated with The Policy System Change Network. I performed a deep policy analysis for local and state tobacco retail policies. This skill can be applied when working with policy. I also served as a voice for students as I was elected by my peers to become a student senator representing the School of Public Health in the CU Student Senate. I won because my peers understood my knowledge of diversity, which is to be open-minded to different viewpoints and to know that there is more than one way to solve a problem. I attended meetings to review and vote on new proposals and policies.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 2
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 1
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial Justice means to address systemic racism and to address racism in a social environment. Racial justice ensures that all members and parties are treated equally regardless of race/ethnicity. This means addressing negative assumptions, biases, and/or stereotypes about a specific demographic that may be driven by race. Health equity means to address the needs of people of all demographics rather than providing the same resources. Each group of individuals has different needs, therefore, health equity is to address these different needs.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

Through my current position at CDPHE, health equity is applied by ensuring data accuracy through communicable disease data systems. Data is collected from people of all demographics, furthermore, to promote health equity and racial justice, our is to improve data accuracy for all groups of demographics which includes races.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

As CPHA is committed to becoming anti-racist, advocating for mental health support is beneficial to address racial justice and health equity for people of all demographics; this ensures that people of all demographics have access to support for mental health. Other areas include CPHA collaboration with AAPI communities to promote health equity and racial justice. Areas that need more support include more addressing health equity in social events, for example, more emphasis during the annual conference PHiR.

Emerging Leader Seat (3-year term commitment)

Name: Rachel Chantala

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I have been a nurse at the Child Health Clinic at Children's Hospital Colorado since May 2019. This pediatric primary care clinic provides care to over 13,000 patients, ensuring that all medical and psychosocial needs of every family are met. In January 2022, I became an Associate Clinical Manager of the Child Health Clinic, along with the Young Mothers and Families Clinic and KICS Clinic. Alongside my work as a nursing leader, I am the Primary VFC Coordinator for these clinics, which allows us to provide families vaccines free of charge. I helped lead and participated in research around COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in patients and families seen in the Child Health Clinic and Young Mothers and Families Clinic. This work will help tailor the education and resources provided to clinicians to better support our patients and families with the questions and concerns they have around vaccines and vaccine hesitancy. In May 2023, I graduated from University of Colorado with a master's degree in public health and doctoral degree in nursing practice, which further solidified by knowledge and passion for public health and nursing practice.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

The mission and areas of work that are at the core of what CPHA stands for very closely aligns with what drives my work as a doctoral-prepared public health nurse and where I want to see the healthcare industry go. I believe it is incredibly important to expand public health education in healthcare professional programs and continuing education offerings at hospitals and conferences, since public health and preventative care is the future of the healthcare industry. Policy and advocacy can have the largest impact on the care provided and should heavily focus on racial justice and health equity. I am very excited to bring my ideas and experiences to the board and CPHA to help create the healthiest Colorado for all Coloradans.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

Through my DNP program and work as a nursing leader, I have been exposed to and completed process and quality improvement work. In June 2023, I graduated from the CTP Cohort through Institute of Healthcare Quality, Safety, and Efficiency at University of Colorado that furthered my knowledge in skills in leading process and quality improvement work. I have helped review organizational policies at Children's Hospital Colorado that were department and organization wide. I have had close to two years of formal leadership experience as well as a year of informal charge nurse experience. As a nursing leader, I help oversee 30 nurses and medical assistants. I help implement and maintain specific policies and procedures and ensure compliance with quality and safety initiatives. I will still work in clinic and partner with a multidisciplinary team to meet the clinical needs of our patients and families. I help prepare schedules, oversee the overall flow of clinic, and monitor supplies and finances.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 2
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 2

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Public health focuses on the population's health as a whole, which means that racism and its impact on a person's health need to be at the forefront of everything we do. To me, health equity means that every person is getting a fair opportunity to the resources, support, and care that they need. This will look different for everyone depending on what specific needs a person may have and the specific barriers that they face. Racial justice would require a change at the system level that would remove all barriers prohibiting a person from accessing the resources and support they need. This would allow for opportunities and health outcomes for all, regardless of race.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

I am a member of the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Council started by a provider in the Child Health Clinic that is focused on fostering an open, inclusive, and equitable culture in the Child Health Clinic, Young Mothers and Families Clinic, and KICS Clinic by building upon workplace equity, providing inclusive primary care to children, and teaching in an inclusive and nurturing educational environment. I helped to create the mission statement of the group along with other members. I am participating in the Black Health Initiative through the Center for Advancing Professional Excellence which aims to train providers on culturally responsive communication skills. I am being more proactive in understanding and addressing my own biases and how my practice as a nurse and nurse leader can be more inclusive and focused on health equity and justice. I think about these approaches in hiring, process changes, and celebration and recognition of staff.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I believe with my work as a nurse in the Child Health Clinic, I have had experience with implement health equity and justice at the clinic and community level. I feel that I would need more support in the process of applying this work at a systems and policy level

Name: Judson Katz

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I am currently a public health student at Yale University. Additionally, I serve on the board for an organization called Benzodiazepine Alliance, which advocates for responsible use of medications. Lastly, I currently work as a Deputy General Counsel for a clinical research organization, and focus on protecting individuals privacy as well as conforming to the the law to help treatments come to market.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

Engaging with like-minded individuals to promote public health in new and innovative ways, is what drives me. To participate in an organization, and offer insight based on my unique experiences, can hopefully help to advance equality and equity within public health.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

I have worked as a lead counsel for the FDA, several large and small pharma companies, and as a lawyer and bioethics expert. I use my unique experiences to provide counsel to companies, while allowing myself to be driven by a desire to help people/patients/healthcare providers.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 3
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 2
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 3
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 2

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial Justice and health equity means that people of all backgrounds have appropriate access to medications. Additionally, the structures that have created inequity, and continue to create inequity, need to be addressed to ensure we create equity over time. The only way to do this is to have conversations, and propose pragmatic solutions that can be employed and sustained over time.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

I continue to engage in education to understand a variety of perspectives on inequity. Doing this allows me to formulate potential solutions, and partner with others to make these viable solutions. I have ensured hiring practices are conducted appropriately in my organizations, and have worked on regulations and guidance that allow for racial representation in clinical trials.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I would like to continue to advocate for inclusion of all races within the clinical trial sphere. Additionally, I'd like to continue to advocate for both drug price transparency and access to medication issues. There is a need to address access to medications, and a need to have data that supports medications in particular populations, and I'd love to help advance this discussion.

Name: Stefanie Briggs

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

My work now is primarily within the food access and food justice space. My current position at Denver Department of Public Health and Environment is "Contract Compliance Coordinator" for the Healthy Food for Denver's Kids (HFDK) program. With this role, I assist 40+ grantees (i.e. schools and non-profit organizations) in contract compliance, all of whom have been awarded funds to create access to healthy foods for kids, as well as increase food-education for Denver's kids. In assisting organizations to promote healthy food access, it is our hope that we are creating strong foundations for children in the future, as we know the public health implications of a lack of access to healthy foods. Outside of my professional work, I am extremely passionate about several social justice issues. I am dedicated towards learning about topics that I feel strongly about- such as climate justice, reproductive justice, and access to housing. In being new to Colorado, I am searching for people and organizations that extend

my ability to serve others locally and allow for new ideas to emerge when creating solutions for such complex issues.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

As someone who is relatively new to the public health sphere, I view joining the CPHA board as a chance to grow, learn and collaborate. I graduated from Boston University School of Public Health in 2021, and have since lived in Colorado. At 26 years old, I feel committed to doing whatever I can to expand my knowledge of public health, and especially become more acquainted with the local issues of this state. In working for the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, the CPHA board could bring me insight as to how to best perform my role at DDPHE, with new skills such as leadership and networking. I wholeheartedly believe that to be in the public health sphere, I must be engaged in a continuous learning experience. The CPHA board would grant me new perspectives on emerging issues and would encourage me to grow with an anti-racist lens.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

A skill that will allow for success as an Emerging Leader is being adaptable and open. I am always looking for ways to expand as an individual and feel that new perspectives are what foster growth. I am eager to help in any way that I can. I learn best by doing, and I allow for my passions to drive me in hopefully eliminating health disparities within Colorado. I enjoy jumping in to projects, and believe in creating personable, trusted relationships with my colleagues through helping. Lastly, I am highly motivated and organized. A position on the CPHA board would mean a tremendous amount to me, and I would take this position seriously. My recent MPH degree from Boston University will bring perspectives and ideas that hopefully represent people of my generation. I have constant ideas around addressing racist public health practices, as well as eliminating sources of hate and violence within our country. I have experience from graduate school in research and policy analysis around social determinants of health that I believe could be useful on the CPHA board. Although my role at DDPHE is new, I am acquiring skills daily that would be applied as an Emerging Leader.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 1
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 2

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice is a critical mission that falls within the incredibly large umbrella of health equity. First, health equity to me means allowing for equal starting points for everyone, and in doing so, recognizing the parts of our history that have prevented several groups of people from starting at the same place as others. I believe that to truly give people a fair starting point in life, we must recognize and amend the unfair practices our government has encouraged. Such practices have resulted in issues such as lack of access to healthcare, wage disparities, lack of access to housing loans/property, lack of education and racist voting practices. Racial justice stands at the heart of creating fairness, peace, and safety within our country. Black, Hispanic, and several other populations of people have been willingly harmed by the practices of American institutions. Justice requires acknowledging such racist institutions (i.e. corporations, police, schools, healthcare facilities) and creating policies that break down such injustice. Racial justice means being a learner and listener, understanding the depth of this country's racist practices, and allowing lived experiences to drive solutions.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

During my time at Boston University, my MPH program was focused solely on using an anti-racist lens for all of our work. I was half-way through my MPH program when the murder of George Floyd occurred, which really shifted the way in which all of us at BU thought about racial justice as a public health issue. I learned how to use critical race theory to always question the systems in which we are apart of, as well as use compassionate listening to give the voices to those who need them. I am a vocal advocate for making advancements in racial justice and do my best to read and learn about the ongoing public health issues that intersect with racial injustices. In being new to Colorado, I am diligently spending time understanding the history of Denver and other cities, attempting to understand how that has led to underserved areas and disparities in healthcare. In my current role, I am proud to be apart of our division's EDI committee and am eager to collaborate with others in addressing inequities we see in our daily work and our communities. As a white female, I am committed to the daily and ongoing learning practice in racial justice, understanding that not one book, article or video will ever quantify the depth of lived experiences of many.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

By nature, I am a researcher and learner, and am always wanting to spread important/useful resources with others. At CPHA, I would love to contribute towards the sharing of resources that bring awareness to racial justice and health equity work. With some experience now in the food justice space, I would love to bring forward resources and information on the intersectionality between food access and racial justice. Most importantly, I am willing to do the work in health equity and racial justice- meaning I am open to taking the resources we would share at CPHA and implementing them into my daily life. At CPHA, I would benefit from more support in understanding the totality of health inequities that exist within the state of Colorado. In only being here for a couple years, I feel quite new to the unique issues that this state faces and would benefit from listening to many others on the CPHA board who are well aware of what this state is in need of. I am hopeful of residing in this state for many years to come, and feel it is my duty to be aware of the issues that hinder my community from living healthy lives.

Name: Monica Kneusel

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I am currently engaged in the following areas of public health work: - Infectious Disease Epidemiology- Public Health Education- Subject Matter Expert - Public Health and Health Equity- Subject Matter Expert - Infectious Disease Interviewing Skills- Health Equity- Healthcare Access in Rural Counties- Stakeholder Engagement - Partnership Building

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

What excites me the most about joining the CPHA board is the opportunity to give a voice to recent public health graduates, especially those who are committed to advancing diversity, anti-racist rhetoric, and systems change in the public health space. After witnessing the last three years of large-scale burnout and the mass exodus of public health professionals, it's a daunting landscape for graduates in the first stages of their career. In addition to balancing their studies and career advancement, the next generation of public health workers has had to contend with societal unrest, racial violence and discrimination, government shutdowns, and other symptoms of a society in urgent need of compassionate and strong leadership from all generations. I am excited to be given a chance to represent recent public health graduates, and to enter a space that recognizes the wisdom of this generation.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

As an emerging public health leader, the last three years have been filled with uncertainty, unrest, and difficulties in grasping what the future of public health work will look like for graduates in my generation. I like to describe my experience as two years of 'quick changes'. With those quick changes, I have participated in three years of public health bootcamp, culminating in a robust and far-reaching public health experience. I graduated from college in 2020, and was thrown directly into public health work. I took a position as a case investigator and contact tracer, representing the first cohort of investigators who were trained as part of the state's COVID-19 response in Colorado. In the same month that I began my MPH program, I was offered a supervisor role with CDPHE, overseeing the same program that I had been a part of. I moved into an epidemiologist role shortly after, and continued to work on disease response in Colorado. This whirlwind experience has given me the flexibility, perseverance, and resilience to contribute to the CPHA in a truly meaningful way.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 1
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 1
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

When I think of racial justice and health equity, I think of interconnection. Setting aside my own experiences with bias and racial inequity as a mixed-race woman, I strongly believe that what affects one of us, affects all of us. To me, being antiracist is as simple as being a good neighbor. When your community is hurting, you help. I choose to participate in health equity work because of this belief, and it is my mission to show that not only are health inequity and racial injustice present and pervasive in every person's life, but they are treatable and preventable with education, compassion, and effective listening.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

I have been alongside, directly involved in, or an observer of health equity work for as long as I can remember. In the last 5 years, I have focused my efforts on the Hispanic/Latin(x) community in and around Denver, as well as vaccine and COVID-19 testing accessibility for rural counties on the Western Slope. I strive to live out the principles that lead to racial justice and health equity in my personal and professional life, and focus on making these topics as accessible and approachable as possible.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I believe that my experience in the last 5 years with rural healthcare and healthcare access - specifically in the Western Slope - will enable me to contribute to the conversation surrounding the unique populations in these areas of Colorado, and how best to support them. An area that I would appreciate support in would be continuing to find and provide data sources that are useful for rural agencies in Colorado, rather than working to provide insight from larger, metropolitan databases and systems.

Name: Rene Begay

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I have been in the field of public health for six years while living in Colorado. I have worked in the areas of laboratory research and public health research. My laboratory work focused on determining genetic variants that are associated with heart muscle disease. From that work, it was apparent that public health was a better fit to conduct genetics research among Indigenous populations. The skills I gained were critical thinking, writing, and gaining an eye for detail. In my public health training, I have learned to see the bigger picture, community engagement, advocacy, and public speaking. In addition, I currently possess administrative skills, the ability to collaborate, organization, and communication.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

What excites me the most is being able to see the state of health among Colorado communities from other board members and learning from their experiences. I have grown over the years as a public health researcher by working with and listening to those who seek to change the health of the populations around them. My interactions have shaped who I am as a researcher and I hope that by being a part of the board I will be able to further my understanding of public health while also continuing to impact the populations I represent, the Native American community.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

I am currently in the areas of policy and advocacy, education, and support Native American communities. One of my previous projects was to improve the health of rural Native American Veterans and their family and friends by developing an educational toolkit on the subject of suicide prevention. Now, I am developing mental health and spiritual wellness content for a mobile app that seeks to provide tools, resources, and education on life after service for Native Veterans who live in rural areas of the country. My focus is to provide tools and resources for Native populations across the U.S. More broadly, I am always advocating for Native people to be seen, supported, and strengthened by the various work that I do.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 0
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 1
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 0
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 0
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 1
Systems and strategic thinking: 2

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

To me, racial justice means eliminating the health injustices for people of color. Health equity to me means providing curated health to those in need of maintaining or improving their health regardless of their socioeconomic background. Everyone, in one form or another, could use help to feel balanced emotionally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

I am committed to the growth in racial justice and health equity as a part of all the work that I do. Although I do not use this terminology every time I present, publish, or create content; I infuse these concepts in my everyday work and research. Coming from an Indigenous community, I am constantly aware of the concerns and strengths that my people contribute to society. The complexity of policy, government, environment, societal challenges, and economic issues constantly impact Native American communities, and in order to be a good researcher and advocate, I have to be aware of all of these social determinants of health. I currently work at the Centers for American Indian and Alaska Native Health as a Senior Professional Researcher Assistant and have worked on the topics of health services research, heart disease, rural Native Veteran mental health, and food systems.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I have been a part of the CPHA for a short time and I appreciate all the work that has been represented over the years. However, I feel that there is a need to further elevate Indigenous voices and public health initiatives across Colorado. There are several Indigenous tribes represented in Colorado that need additional resources, health programs, and research projects that seek to improve the health of Native people. Many of the Native people living in Colorado are living far from their ancestral lands to seek employment or educational opportunities and I believe they need the access and resources to thrive in this state and be seen by an organization such as the CPHA. I hope to be supported by CPHA in recognizing and advocating for the integration of Indigenous knowledge within various public health spaces.

Name: Hridith Sudev

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

As the Community Health Specialist for Sheridan Health Service's federally-qualified-health-center, the CU Family Health Clinic, I have spearheaded community outreach and enrollment, designed several of the organization's policy advocacy efforts, coordinated dissemination of information/education and engaged with community partners- all in an effort to make healthcare more accessible and equitable. Furthermore, in 2021, I co-founded the 501C3 non-profit organization, Colectivo de Paz dedicated to creating

"communities of action" that empower vulnerable communities in Denver. Currently serving as the President of the Board and Chair of the Healthcare Access Committee, I have represented the health interests of unhoused immigrants, disabled veterans and newly arrived refugees at city and state levels. I led the effort to design a comprehensive direct aid program - CARE (Community Aid and Resource Exchange) that distributes over 7000 hot meals a year and has initiated educational opportunities for high-school students, vaccination drives for the unhoused, and provided legal assistance and employment opportunities for new immigrants. In order to protect the health of Colorado's children and disrupt the school to prison pipeline, Colectivo contributed to, endorsed and lobbied for CO HB 22-1131, that passed in the last session and reduced criminal justice involvement for young children. Recently, our team similarly contributed to and advocated for CO SB23B-002 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer Program to combat child hunger in the state. The committee has also implemented a youth violence prevention program that prevents gang-interaction and improves social determinants of health for at-risk youth, and a state-wide healthcare access program in coordination with several Federally Qualified Health Centers that connects unhoused community members to essential services. Working with the Injury & Violence Prevention Center at the CO School of Public Health, At-Risk Intervention and Mentoring (AIM) violence-prevention team at UCHealth University Hospital, I am currently designing an evidence-driven trauma-informed holistic care clinic tailored for bullet-related-injuries in Denver.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I was 14 years old when the war in Yemen began spilling into where I lived in southern Oman. Some of my earliest memories are volunteering with my father, a physician, to provide first-aid to injured refugees from across the border. I grew up a third-culture kid, an Indian in Oman, during a very tumultuous time. As a 12-year-old, I led a mass movement of young people against fracking in our communities. As a 15-year-old, I stood by my motherâ€™s hospital bed when she was diagnosed with uterine tumors and my parents were forced to scrounge so we could afford her care. This is why I came to America, to learn how to address deep seated inequities that colored all my childhood and youth. Navigating the pandemic as an administrative intern for the DDPHE, and later working as the Community Health Specialist for the FQHC, Sheridan Health Services, I have been able to make tangible changes that would have made childhood me proud. Joining the board of CPHA will allow me to expand this work on a more macro level, engage with like-minded change-makers and influence the trajectory of public health in the state I have called a home for more than 6 years now.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

Beginning from the young age of 12, I have dedicated more than two-thirds of my life in pursuit of improving health equity and access for the most vulnerable members of our community. My experience with the gross inequities and the access gap in healthcare that I experienced as the son of two guest-workers, one of them a physician, in Oman drove me to pursue a life in the service of addressing these barriers. This journey as a student, organizer, and advocate for health and environmental equity took me to seven countries including several times back to my native India and finally to the United States. My academic background studying public policy, healthcare and social justice gives me an adept understanding of community engagement, research, and data-driven community mobilization. Across Oman and the US, I have worked in research programs, governmental public health agencies, community clinics, and I have even co-founded a 501-C3 non-profit (Colectivo de Paz) that I have served on the Board for, for the last 2 and a half years. Currently leading the Board as its President, I have served diverse constituencies that include working-class Americans, immigrants, refugees and unhoused community members. Not only have these experiences given me an intimate familiarity with navigating the nuances of public health, but they have also taught me to be creative. Aside from all my educational and professional experiences, my personal background as a brown, foreign-language-speaking, working-class immigrant who moved to America all by himself at age eighteen, gives me the practical skills of adaptability, resilience, and perseverance that I believe will translate at the CPHA.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 3
Grant Writing: 3
Non-Profit Governance: 3
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 1
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

As a brown, pentalingual immigrant who had to navigate several admittedly inequitable systems upon arriving in America, racial justice and health equity mean a great deal to me. From a young age, I have believed that when a system refuses to reach across barriers to best serve those who need the most support, the best thing to do is to take down the very barrier that legitimizes such disparities. An equitable and healthy Colorado that works for all its residents will ensure sustainable growth and development for our communities uplifting the most vulnerable among us and mechanizing our collective capacities for the greater good.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

As one of the founders and the President of Colectivo de Paz, a 501-C3 nonprofit dedicated to creating communities of action that empower working-class immigrants, refugees, people of color, veterans, unhoused community members, at-risk students, and other historically marginalized peoples and families in the greater Denver area, I have spent the last 2 and a half years working to expand racial justice and health equity in Colorado. Despite several hurdles, CDP has successfully endorsed and helped pass two high-impact state legislations CO HB 22-1131 and CO SB23B-002 that address the school-to-prison pipeline and food insecurity among Colorado's BIPOC children respectively. As the Community Health Specialist at the Sheridan CU Family Health Center, I have also designed outreach and enrollment programs and led research efforts to improve equitable health access and sustainable health outcomes for communities experiencing disproportionate burdens.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

Equitable health information dissemination, research and advocacy, as well as community mobilization and organization would be areas where I would contribute the most. I may need more support navigating some nuances of American administrative apparatuses as an immigrant who is still learning the ropes of some systems.

Name: Cole Jurecka

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

My current engagement in public health primarily revolves around research that delves into the intersection of policy and access to care, especially for marginalized groups such as individuals who use drugs and those experiencing homelessness. This research is driven by a commitment to understand and articulate how policy decisions create barriers to care, further exacerbating health inequities.My primary interest lies in transcending individual-level interventions in public health. Instead, I am deeply invested in exploring and advocating for system-level changes. This goal is to understand how broader systemic alterations can be implemented to address public health inequities more holistically. This involves not only identifying existing gaps in policy and care but also actively contributing to the development and implementation of more inclusive, equitable health policies and practices. My engagement is thus centered on creating a more equitable health system that recognizes and adequately addresses the needs of all individuals, particularly those most affected by systemic injustices.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

Growing up in a family of educators, I was nurtured in an environment where a passion for learning was more than encouraged-it was fundamental. This upbringing has shaped me into an individual who is constantly seeking new opportunities for growth and knowledge. My keen interest in public health and commitment to community wellbeing align perfectly with the mission of the CPHA board. Joining the CPHA board excites me because it presents an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate with professionals from diverse interdisciplinary backgrounds. This environment, rich in knowledge and experience, is ideal for a synergistic exchange of ideas aimed at tackling public health challenges at both individual and systemic levels. I am eager to bring my passion for continuous learning and my commitment to public health and equity to the board, contributing to impactful decisions and fostering a healthier community.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

My research, which focuses on the impacts of policy on healthcare access for those most let down by systemic failures, particularly people with substance use disorders and those experiencing homelessness, shapes my perspective on the public health challenges we face.One of my key strengths lies in my ability to synthesize complex research into understandable and actionable insights for a wide range of stakeholders. This skill is crucial for bridging the gap between academic findings and practical policy applications, and understanding how these findings should be communicated differently to a diverse array of stakeholders. Equally important is my approach to teamwork. I value the perspectives of others, believing that the most effective solutions in public health emerge from diverse and inclusive collaborations. My role in any team is guided by empathy, active listening, and a dedication to integrating different viewpoints for the collective good.I am excited about the prospect of contributing my analytical and research skills to our shared goal of improving health outcomes. I am prepared to engage thoughtfully with complex issues, always with an eye toward learning and adapting alongside my fellow board members.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 2

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

To me, racial justice in the context of public health means actively acknowledging and addressing the systemic inequalities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. It is about recognizing that race, often intertwined with other socioeconomic factors, significantly influences an individual's health outcomes and access to healthcare services. Racial justice, therefore, involves a commitment to dismantling these disparities and advocating for policies and practices that promote fairness and equal opportunity in health.Health equity is intrinsically linked to this concept of racial justice. It represents the goal of ensuring that all individuals, irrespective of their racial or socioeconomic background, have equal access to quality healthcare and the opportunity to attain their highest level of health. Health equity is about removing barriers to health such as poverty, discrimination, and their consequential impact on people's lives.My professional and research experiences, especially working with people experiencing homelessness and those with substance use disorders, have underscored for me how health inequities are often a manifestation of deeper systemic issues. To achieve health equity, we must look beyond individual-level interventions and address the systemic, policy-driven determinants of health.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

My commitment to racial justice and health equity is deeply rooted in both my professional experience and personal values. Through my research focused on the policy barriers affecting healthcare access for individuals with substance use disorders and those experiencing homelessness, I have gained a nuanced understanding of how systemic inequities disproportionately impact certain communities. This research has not only been about identifying problems but also about actively seeking solutions that address these inequities at a systemic level. I have dedicated myself to understanding the root causes of these disparities and advocating for changes that promote equitable health outcomes. This involves engaging with diverse stakeholders, from policy makers to affected individuals, to ensure that the solutions developed are inclusive and effective.Moreover, I am committed to continual growth in this area. This means actively seeking opportunities to learn from experts in racial justice and health equity, staying abreast of current research and best practices, and reflecting on my own biases and assumptions. I believe that this journey is evergreen, requiring ongoing education, empathy, and the willingness to challenge existing systems and my own perspectives.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

In my commitment to advancing racial justice and health equity within CPHA, I bring a unique combination of professional experience and a deep understanding of systemic challenges. My work with people experiencing homelessness and those with substance use disorders has provided me with a profound insight into the stark realities of health inequities and the detrimental impacts of stigmatizing language in public health.These experiences have not only honed my ability to empathize and connect with diverse populations but have also informed my research, which focuses on identifying and addressing systemic and policy failures that exacerbate health disparities. I am particularly passionate about translating this research into actionable policies and practices that promote health equity.However, as a cishet white male, I recognize that my lived experiences differ significantly from those most affected by systemic injustices. I am keenly aware of the need for ongoing learning and support in understanding the nuances of racial justice within the context of public health. I welcome guidance and collaboration with colleagues who can provide perspectives and experiences different from my own. This will be crucial in ensuring that my contributions are effective and culturally sensitive, ultimately fostering a more equitable healthcare landscape.

Health Equity Officer (3-year Term Commitment)

Name: Lisa Peters

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

Since 2022, I have had the privilege of serving our greater Colorado community by sitting on the CPHA board as the Emerging Leaders Director and as the Membership Associate Director. Through this experience, I learned from experienced public health professionals and was able to contribute to other board member's initiatives while growing the mission of my respective committees. It was a truly humbling and inspiring experience, and I hope to continue with CPHA in a similar capacity. I am currently a financial professional at CommonSpirit Health, specializing in reimbursement, and I try to maintain a multi-faceted approach to public health through community engagement. For example, over the past five years, I have raised over $300,000 for Colorado high school students overcoming the cycle of poverty through Boys Hope Girls Hope. Community engagement is my passion, and I hope to highlight and add accessibility to the incredible resources Colorado already offers its residents. Additionally, I am pursuing a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, specializing in Health Systems and Policy and a certificate in Health Disparities and Health Inequality, with an expected graduation of May 2024.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I am excited and honored to apply as the Health Equity Officer at CPHA because I would like to invest in strategies, goals, resources, and involvement opportunities for our CPHA members and the community at-large, while dismantling harmful infrastructure and combatting the injustices that CPHA furthers. Here are a few of the goals I would like to explore as Health Equity Officer: 1. CPHA have a vast audience with a diverse membership and wide community outreach, but equity within the organization's membership has not been measured. I want to start my term by listening first. To do this, I plan to send out a short survey to gauge our current strengths and opportunities for growth. Without first measuring what is missing at CPHA, we lose your voices, the most important asset at CPHA. 2. I plan to highlight a community member in our monthly newsletter and on the blog on our website, so that we can continue lifting those in our communities who deserve more appreciation and acknowledgement. 3. Building relationships in our community is a priority because we cannot further equity without knowing who we are serving. I hope to offer monthly to quarterly opportunities for you to serve your community and build impactful relationships with nonprofit organizations. 4. I would also like to prioritize the continuation of dismantling harmful, supremacist practices in our conferences. For example, we need more language translations, more opportunities for funding community members' participation, and more accessibility for all. These are some of my priorities that I would like to address while serving as the Health Equity Officer; however, because this Office is dedicated to serving our membership and community, I will pivot priorities based on the results of the survey, so that I will utilize my seat on the Board serving you authentically, and addressing your most urgent needs.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

My most valuable skills that I will bring to the CPHA board are creative planning and problem-solving, a drive for action, and a passion for equity and justice. Within the smallest acts, we can approach large plans and goals, taking intentional steps to prioritize Colorado health, our members, and overall equity in our community. Organizations are successful with both broad, innovative aspirations, and the purposeful progress to move projects forward. Over the past several years, I have put this into practice and gained more passion for creating and communicating valuable opportunities within CPHA. For example, in May 2022, CPHA launched our first magazine, RISE, and in 2023, we released its' second edition. The goal was to feature students and early careerists by 1) highlighting academic and artistic pieces and 2) creating leadership opportunities for editors to develop new skills. This allowed seasoned professionals to act as mentors and engage with younger public health creators, while students were able to participate in a capacity previously not available to them. It also allowed opportunity to engage our community members who value partaking in the public health conversation.Additionally, I value the opportunities that CPHA could offer to further equity and accessibility throughout our membership and community at-large. For example, over the past year, I created a new CPHA website that prioritizes easy navigation and clear communication. Due to popular demand, I also added a Spanish translation, so that CPHA embodies the needs of our members and community. Please note that we are still looking for several volunteers to proof-read the translation. Lastly, over the past several years on the CPHA Board, I have partnered with local organizations to offer hands-on, impactful volunteer opportunities for our members. From volunteering in a community garden to donating veggies to a local food bank, I prioritized creating opportunities for our members while building long-lasting and meaningful relationships with our community. CPHA should not just be about learning - we need to build initiatives to make impactful relationships in Colorado.If chosen as the Health Equity Officer, I hope to add more authentic value for CPHA members and our greater Colorado community, while prioritizing strategy and intentionality. I plan to prioritize your voices, gauge what we are currently missing at CPHA, and lead with action to dismantle harmful systems while building meaningful relationships with our community.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 3
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 2
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 1
Effective Communication: 2
Policy: 1
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 2

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Within healthcare administration, management, and finance, there is little diversity overall. General medical hospitals consist of 72.3% white demographics across the nation, and the discrepancy is even higher for financial and management services. To help break this cycle, I have partnered with a Colorado not-for-profit who mentors BIPOC students academically, professionally, and personally, as they overcome disadvantaged backgrounds. We are in the process of designing a program to expose these students to healthcare opportunities in hopes of a pursuit to bridge the diversity gap. As a healthcare financial professional, it is my responsibility to acknowledge the habitual lack of diversity in the field and utilize my privilege to support the dismantling of unjust, supremacist systems.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

To truly build a healthy Colorado for all, every decision, goal, and action must be oriented around equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice. These are foundational bricks and should not just be considered an afterthought. Transformation begins within, so I will first continuously reevaluate and gauge the conscious and subconscious biases I have. Additionally, I vow to prioritize creating an equitable space for all by offering anonymity when appropriate, listening first, intentionally responding, assuming the good intentions of all, and holding myself and others accountable for our authority and power in championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

In racial justice and health equity work within the Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA), my potential contributions could lie in various areas. One area where I might contribute significantly is in data analysis and research. I can assist in synthesizing and analyzing data related to health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups. Using this data, I can help in identifying trends, patterns, and root causes of these disparities, which is crucial for developing effective strategies to address them. Additionally, I can aid in creating educational materials and resources to raise awareness about racial disparities in healthcare. I can assist in crafting content that communicates complex health information in an accessible manner, helping to educate both professionals and the general public about these issues. I also can excel at community engagement and implementing on-the-ground initiatives. I can offer guidance and insights, while collaborating with individuals and organizations to best engage in direct community involvement and the practical application of interventions. However, navigating the complexities of policy advocacy and implementation might require additional support. Although I can provide information and guidance on potential policy strategies, collaborating with individuals well-versed in policy-making and implementation processes could be crucial to ensure effective and sustainable change. Overall, while I can contribute in several key areas such as data analysis, research, and educational material creation, I might need more support in policy implementation within the context of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA.

Name: Meladie Lowe

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

As the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Program Manager at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment within the Division of Prevention Services, I am deeply engaged in various facets of public health. Leading the charge of DEI in executive leadership, I actively support 270 employees in incorporating health equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility into their daily practices. Through strategic consulting, I provide guidance to both internal staff and external partners, fostering a culture of inclusivity and addressing health disparities.Furthermore, my commitment extends to education, where I teach a course on social determinants of health with a specific focus on health equity at the University of South Dakota through the Rocky Mountain Training Center. This academic involvement allows me to contribute to the development of future public health professionals, emphasizing the importance of addressing social determinants to achieve equitable health outcomes. By actively participating in these areas, I am dedicated to advancing the field of public health and promoting inclusive practices that positively impact organizational and community well-being.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I am thrilled about the opportunity to join the Colorado Public Health Association Board as the Health Equity Officer. With over 13 years as a social worker, my diverse experience spans government, clinical, and academic settings. My passion lies in advocating and strategically planning for diversity, equity, and inclusion in public health. This role aligns perfectly with my commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting equitable access to healthcare resources. Collaborating with like-minded professionals on the board, I am eager to contribute my expertise in human services to advance health equity initiatives across Colorado. Together, we can drive positive change and foster inclusive practices that improve the well-being of our communities.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

My extensive background as a social worker, coupled with trauma-informed expertise, uniquely positions me as a strong candidate for the Health Equity Officer role on the Colorado Public Health Association Board. With over 13 years of hands-on experience partnering with individuals in the diverse landscapes of metro, frontier, and rural counties in Colorado, I possess a nuanced understanding of the state's unique public health challenges.As a Black cis-gendered woman, my lived experience further informs my commitment to fostering an anti-racist and health equity-focused service delivery. This perspective, combined with my passion for creating policies that prioritize inclusivity, enhances my ability to contribute meaningfully to the board's objectives.My skill set encompasses both soft and hard skills, including effective communication, collaboration, data analysis, and program development. These competencies, honed through years of practical experience, enable me to navigate complex public health issues adeptly. Moreover, my willingness to learn ensures that I can adapt to evolving challenges and contribute innovative solutions.In summary, my unique blend of professional and personal experiences, along with a comprehensive skill set and unwavering commitment to health equity, positions me as a dedicated and effective candidate for the Health Equity Officer position on the Colorado Public Health Association Board.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 2

Fundraising: 3
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 3
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 2

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice and health equity hold profound significance for me, shaped by my personal and professional experiences. As a Black cis-gendered woman and a social worker with over 13 years of diverse human services experience, these ideals represent a commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and fostering inclusive environments.Racial justice, to me, is a tireless pursuit of dismantling historical and institutional inequities. It involves acknowledging the unique challenges faced by different communities, actively dismantling discriminatory structures, and advocating for policies that bridge disparities. My lived experiences inform this perspective, providing a firsthand understanding of the complexities at the intersection of race and gender.Health equity, in my view, extends beyond equal access to healthcare services. It encompasses addressing the social determinants of health and creating policies and services that empower individuals to thrive, irrespective of their background. My dedication to an anti-racist and health equity-focused service delivery is rooted in a trauma-informed approach and a commitment to cultural competence.In essence, racial justice and health equity mean fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their background, has equal access to opportunities and resources. They represent an ongoing commitment to creating a world where individuals can attain their highest level of health and well-being, shaped by empathy, personal experiences, and a dedication to continuous learning and improvement.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

My journey in advancing racial justice and health equity has been multifaceted, driven by experiences as a caseworker, victim advocate, and educator. As a victim advocate with the Aurora Police Department, I advocated for those impacted by systemic inequities. This experience deepened my understanding of the intersectionality of racial injustice and its impact on service delivery and overall health outcomes.Transitioning to a role as a caseworker in Mesa and Arapahoe County, I engaged as a caseworker, partnering with children, youth, and families of diverse backgrounds to navigate systemic barriers rooted in injustice and racism. Recognizing their humanity, I provided partnership, compassion, empathy, and support, striving to counteract the exclusionary nature of existing systems.As an educator at the Metropolitan State University of Denver and the University of South Dakota, I shared these insights with the next generation, teaching the importance of addressing social determinants of health, being trauma-informed, and fostering an inclusive, equitable mindset. Yet, I recognize that there is always more to learn.The acknowledgment of this continuous learning journey is a driving force behind my application for this opportunity. I am motivated by a commitment to growth and a desire to collaborate with like-minded individuals who share a passion for serving communities. Thriving in environments that foster collective dedication to racial justice and health equity, I am eager to contribute and learn, recognizing the transformative power of collaboration in creating a more just and equitable society.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I believe my contributions to racial justice and health equity work within CPHA would be most impactful in areas that align with my social work background and unique experiences. Given my perspective, which emphasizes social and emotional health, trauma-informed practices, and a human-centered approach, I could make substantial contributions to initiatives focusing on the intersectionality of mental health and equity. My varied experience in micro, mezzo, and macro government spaces uniquely positions me to navigate and address health disparities at multiple levels.However, recognizing the need for continuous growth, I would require support in gaining knowledge about the existing landscape within CPHA. Understanding the work that has already been done, identifying barriers, and building upon successful initiatives are areas where I would seek assistance. While I bring a wealth of experience from my social work background, I am committed to learning from and collaborating with public health professionals to enhance my understanding of the field. I am eager to partner with those who have knowledge in these areas, contribute my unique insights, and collectively advance the mission of CPHA towards achieving meaningful outcomes for the communities we serve.

Name: Dr. Tara Jae

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

My focus in public health is heavily rooted in mental health and wellness, as it specifically impacts our QTBIPOC community.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I am looking to use my voice and knowledge in supporting the CPHA board to bring a diverse perspective that is often left out of conversations in public health.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

As an Executive Director of a mental health and wellness organization, I will bring leadership and advocacy that speaks of the challenges that BIPoC communities often face. I will also have extensive knowledge around JEDI strategies and implementation.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 3
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 2

Fundraising: 3
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 3
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice is to understand one's history that has been riddled with discrimination and oppression. It is a vision to eliminate racial hierarchies to reach a collective libration. Health equity is when everyone can receive equal opportunities to a fair and unbiased access to health care.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

My experience as a consultant in the JEDI space has allowed for me to see the bigger picture of what it means to nurture growth, specifically as it relates to health equity. In order for there to be commitment there must be an understanding of purpose and goals, which are established from the beginning.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I feel that I can contribute my knowledge and expertise most to the position of health equity officer. Much of my experience is advocating within mental health and gender affirming care. The support I would need is to have a better understanding of what the goals are as a board.

Name: Christine Fallabel

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I currently work in legislative and regulatory affairs, patient advocacy, diabetes, chronic disease management, preventive health.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I believe my education, professional experience, and lived experience as a person with a disability make me an excellent candidate for serving on the CPHA board. I have over 10 years of experience in the field of public health, an MPH, and I work in patient advocacy for people living with diabetes. Living with type 1 diabetes myself for nearly 25 years has opened my eyes to the importance of serving people with invisible disabilities and making our public health policies and practices more inclusive of these often forgotten voices.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

I have an MPHOver 10 years of experience in the public health fieldI live with an invisible disability. I've worked in patient advocacy for the past 8 years. I have experience at the state health dept and Colorado Medicaid Extensive legislative and regulatory experience Global health.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 1
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 2
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 3
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Health equity means that everyone will have the ability to live their healthiest lives no matter who they are, what their background is, or where they live. It means offering equal access to both preventive and public health measures and addressing social determinants of health so everyone has a fair and just opportunity to achieve their highest level of health.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

As a public health leader in my community within the disability justice movement, I work to ensure people with invisible disabilities, like type 1 diabetes, have access to the medications, tools, technology, and health care they need in able to thrive with their condition. Diabetes affects racial and ethnic minorities at higher rates, and some of our most vulnerable populations are affected by this chronic disease. My commitment to racial justice and health equity means that all people with diabetes, no matter what their background, income level, or zip code, have access to affordable medications, accessible health care, and the opportunities to maintain or improve their health. I've done this work through public partnerships and public policy change.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

Disability justice Invisible disabilities

Name: Suzana Deng

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I am currently the Disproportionately Affected Populations Liaison for the African American/Black Community at the Health Equity Branch at CDPHE. My role is to connect Black led and Black serving organizations with any and all available resources inside and outside CDPHE. More importantly, I am intentional and responsive, working with these organizations through solutions, as I listen and understand their priorities, and challenges. The resources that I bring them can range from access to grant fundings as well as opportunities for capacity building. For example, I have recruited Black leaders to join the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) State Plan. I have equally work to build a Coalition of Black leaders who are now working on addressing substance use disorder in the Black community in Colorado, called the Black Advisory Committee on Substance Abuse in Colorado (BASUC). I have been a member of the Health Disparities and Community Grant program. This is a CDC grant managed by Equity Resource team the Health Equity Branch. I Conducted a roundtable discussion on anti-Black racism in the medical and healthcare field. I attend various community health fairs, and roundtables where subject matter experts discuss Health Equity matters.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

What excites me the most about applying for the position of Health Equity Officer is the prospect of joining hands with like-mined individuals, who are actively working to address health inequity and ensure the health and wellbeing of all Coloradans. Joining this board will give me the chance to contribute to bringing the vision of a "Healthy Colorado for all" to reality. I am excited to work towards ensuring that Colorado's public health workforce is as diverse as Colorado's population. I am excited about the opportunity to pursue the development of a well-trained diverse workforce that represents and understands the community being served. I am also enthused about the opportunity to learn from the diverse experience of the board members, as they deliberate, collaborate, and execute decisions that will directly impact the health of all Coloradan. This will be an opportunity to evolve and become a better public health servant.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

1. I have experience in community outreach and engagement. 2. I have a master's in strategic leadership in Healthcare Organizations from the University of Denver. I am brining knowledge and skills pertaining strategic/ system thinking, critical thinking, and strategic communication. 3. I have Graduate certificate in Health Data Informatics and Analytics. I will bring this crucial skill set to the board. 4. I was a CLLARO Legislative Fellow at the State Capitol, in 2019. I worked on policy analysis and stakeholders' processes and wrote more than 70 Fact Sheet Memos for Public Health, Human Service, Health and Insurance Bills. 5. I was COVID-19 Rapid Response Team Lead and travelled all around Colorado, supervising and ensuring process improvement for COVID-19 testing sites and vaccine clinics. 6. I have non-for-profit governance experience. I am currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Denver Basic Income Project. I understand and appreciate the role that good or bad governance can play in the success or failure of an organization to achieve its mission. DBIP has generated publicly available data that clearly shows how stable housing directly relates to health and wellbeing of an individual.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 1

Fundraising: 3
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 3
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 1
Systems and strategic thinking: 2

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial Justice is about actively working to level the playing field for people of all races and ethnicities to have an equal access to opportunities to thrive and reach their highest potential. The key word in racial justice is "actively."The Healthcare System has been and continues to be racist. All that anyone needs to do is look at the health disparities across the entire continuum of care to fully appreciate how deep, ubiquitous, persistent and intransigent these racial inequities are. These data show that regardless of socioeconomic and educational status, Black and Brown folks are not getting access to quality care nor access to providers that understand them. However, racial justice is not only addressed through healthcare and public health officials. It needs collaboration across various keyholders to address Social Determinants of Health.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

As the Liaison for the African American/Black Community at CDPHE. Racial Justice is not only an ethical obligation, it makes logical and economic sense. It is our responsibility as public health and community leaders to work at all levels to address racial injustice and how it is related to the health equity and the wellbeing of marginalized communities. Furthermore, I always articulate how society as whole entity can be lifted when it addresses racial justice. As the saying goes, â€œA rising tide lifts all boats.â€The system as it is now was established and it maintained in a manner that perpetuate racial injustice. Hence, doing nothing is not option. My active role at CDPHE is to daily work with Black Community-Based Organizations as well as Faith-based organizations to actively and diligently, identify and address health inequity as an aspect of racial injustice.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

I would contribute the most in the following: Cross-sectoral partnerships, Coalition Building, Justice, equity, diversity & inclusion, Fundraising Grant Writing, Non-Profit Governance, Effective Communication, Policy engagement, Data Skills, Systems and strategic thinking , Community engagement, Leadership experience, Strategic Communication especially articulating how racial justice can benefit the entire state, Coalition Building, Community Outreach, to all Disproportionately Affected Populations. I will need health to have a deeper understanding of the unique subset of healthcare that is the rural healthcare system.

Name: Natalee Salcedo

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I currently serve as manager who supports a team of public health professionals who address the following public health topics: 1) Tobacco Prevention and Cessation, 2) Communities that Care (Coalition building and focus on risk and protective factors to prevent substance use and promote mental health), 3) School Health, 4) Healthy Beverage Policy, 5) Mental Health and Substance Use. Additionally, I work closely with Public Health Nursing to advance harm reduction techniques and Environmental Health on Public Health Inspections and enforcement. I also lead work focused on workforce development, health equity and technology to advance hybrid engagement of staff and communities.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

CPHA is instrumental in strengthening public health throughout Colorado. This is critical, as public health must be strong statewide to best protect and promote the health of our communities. As a state of local public health agencies and partner organizations, we are stronger together to advance health equity, recognizing the greatest barriers to being healthy are dependent upon systems changes throughout Colorado and that, collectively, our voices represent organizations serving all populations who experience health inequities. Additionally, our voices represent organizations with unique perspectives and skills to address public health, all of which make all of us better. Through CPHA, I can advocate for good public health policy, increased flexible public health funding and growing and strengthening the public health workforce. It would be an honor to convene, listen to and serve public health organizations and communities throughout Colorado to both protect and promote the health of our communities.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

My skills and experience come from beginning public health in the peace corps to currently working in local public health and interweave grassroots work alongside communities to work on policy with decision-makers at local and state levels. All of my work has leveraged my bilingual skills and familiarity with diverse communities, often underserved/disenfranchised. Through these experiences, I have the following skills: 1) Grassroots Engagement and Organizing, 2) Policy Education, Development, Analysis and Advocacy, 3) Workforce and Community Education and Training, 4) Data Collection, Analysis, and Dissemination within Community and Professional Networks, 5) Coalition Building with community members, including youth, businesses, community organizations, and local government, 6) Grant writing and reporting, and 7) Social Marketing.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 1
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 1
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 3
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial Justice and Health Equity are the underpinnings of public health. To me, they are both personal and professional, which grows and sustains my commitment to addressing them. Racial Justice is creating a world in which people are able to be healthy irrelevant of race because we have successfully removed systemic barriers to health, which have been created over time. Racial Justice is when systemic barriers to health rooted in racism are torn down, and, in doing so, are torn down in a manner that recognizes the impact of them being in place throughout US history and, therefore, remediate the historical impacts of these systems for people of color. Health Equity is a world in which all people, irrelevant of race, sexual orientation, gender, diagnosis and geography have equitable access to the same choices to be healthy and are able to thrive. Health Equity is achieved when those with poorer health outcomes reach the health outcomes of the those with the greatest health outcomes, removing demographic gaps. Public Health is achieved when Health Equity and Health Justice are achieved.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

My experience in Racial Justice and Health Equity began with my father, who as a Latino Lawyer and Law Enforcement Agent taught me daily of the importance of racial justice based upon what he saw at work and experienced himself. When I served in the Peace Corps, I learned about racial justice and health equity from South American promotoras serving their communities. These promotoras showed me that health justice and equity require building trust with communities and listening to them to understand how research can become positive change within their financially impoverished and socially rich communities. Following this work, I returned to Colorado to practice public health with a focus on Tobacco Prevention and Education. I addressed this work the same as I did in the Peace Corps, recognizing that racism was at the root of the health inequities we were seeing. In addition to practicing health equity and health justice, I continue to learn from our communities. When working at Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, I worked with community and colleagues to develop Language Justice Tools and a methodology to develop goals that included Equity and Inclusiveness.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

As an applicant to the CPHA Board of Directors as the Health Equity Officer, I will bring a Health Equity and Racial Justice lens to all of our work, listening for and advancing opportunities to integrate these practices into all of our policies and practices. Additionally, I will identify strategic opportunities to engage community members who have experienced racial injustice and systems of health inequity into all that we do as a Board of Directors for our membership. In order to do this for the Board of Directors, I will benefit from assuring I am familiar with nonprofit governance and organizational best practices.

President Elect (3-year Term Commitment)

Name: Samantha Bertomen

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

I currently work as a project manager at Otowi Group, LLC, a public health consulting firm based in Colorado. At Otowi, we are engaged in several areas including organizational and developmental administration with national, state, local, and community-based organizations. This ever-changing work environment has given me a unique perspective and ensures that I am constantly growing and learning. An area that I have been engaged in and thoroughly enjoy is helping organizations with financial management. Financial management is a skill I aim to build expertise, and as president, would bring to CPHA to better our financial sustainability. Earlier this year, I graduated with my MPH from the Colorado School of Public Health. While my time as a graduate student has ended, my commitment and work with the school continues.I have also been a proud and active board member of CPHA since 2020, which has given me the immense opportunity to engage with public health leaders across the state. The population that resonates with me and my work most are public health professionals. I will continue to advocate for the public health workforce, which operates tirelessly to create a healthier Colorado.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

As a previous board member, I am excited to continue contributing to the significant progress that CPHA has made in the past few years. We have worked diligently towards becoming an anti-racist organization, shifting our board structure, developing our strategic plan, and building a public health movement. I am excited to continue CPHA's legacy and help the association become a leading organization within the state where our leaders turn to for our knowledge and expertise. I want to help make CPHA more financially sustainable so we can continue to progress and grow our vision. Lastly, I am excited to serve our members and the public health community of Colorado. I desire to continuously live in service of others and I would love the opportunity to serve as the next President-elect.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

I am passionate about CPHA serving in most CPHA committees, in some capacity, including Membership, Communications, Policy, Public Health in the Rockies (PHiR), Culture of Data, and Emerging Leaders. Some examples of roles I have played include assisting in planning PHiR, hosting the PHiR Silent Auction, coaching PHiR wellness sessions for 3 years, assisting in planning National Public Health Week, and managing the Emerging Leaders Committee. My dedication to the organization stems from the immense passion I hold for the field of public health, the public health workforce, and the amazing individuals who dedicate their time investing in CPHA. I also have years of experience as a public health professional. Prior to obtaining my MPH, I was a Corporate Wellness Implementation Coordinator at Blue Shield of California Health Insurance, yoga instruction business owner, Fitness Instructor, Community-Based Immunizations Coordinator at Tri-County Health Department, and a research assistant and teaching teaching assistance at the Colorado School of Public Health. With a variety of work experiences, I bring a fresh perspective to the field. I love learning from seasoned professionals and the incredible work they have accomplished while placing emphasis on the need to train the next generation of public health leaders.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 2
JEDI: 2
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 2
Grant Writing: 1
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 2
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 2

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice and health equity are more than just words to me. It means regularly checking my own implicit biases, speaking up for injustices, taking action within our state to pursue racial justice, centering health equity in the work we do, learning from our past, and holding ourselves accountable. Taking action on all of these things is essential to create real change. Below are some of the actions (many more to come!) that I plan to take while serving as President and will continue to develop these alongside the CPHA Board: Pursue legislation that aligns and advances racial justice and health equity: CPHA has an integral role to play in the state. As an organization, we need to lead by example on what it means to be an anti-racist organization and center health equity. One of the ways we can do this is by actively lobbying for bills that align with our efforts and testifying during legislative sessions. Offer consistent training in areas of racial justice and health equity for the board and available to CPHA membership: In order to advance social justice, racial justice, and health equity, education is key. The CPHA board and its members need to continue to pursue education in these areas so we can collectivley grow in our anti-racist work. I believe these trainings should be offered on a more regular basis and I will work to ensure that we find the right partners and pathways to strengthen our public health movement. Integrate social justice, racial justice, and health equity into the Health Policy and Advocacy Summit (put on by the Emerging Leaders Committee). I will do this by providing materials that demonstrate a simplified process to follow the legislative session. I will work to provide tangible ways that attendees can get involved and advocate for social justice, racial justice, and health equity. I will ensure that we are including social justice, racial, justice, and health equity topics during the summit to provide further educational opportunities. These are only a few examples of how I hope to pursue racial justice and health equity as President-Elect of CPHA. The pursuit of racial justice and health equity are integral to building a healthiest Colorado for everyone.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

My experience stems from my continued commitment to CPHA as an organization. As we look towards being a leader in Colorado, CPHA has the opportunity to demonstrate and exemplify what it means to be an anti-racist organization that also focuses and centers health equity. I have committed my time and effort in these past years to help CPHA become the leader that Colorado needs to combat racial injustice and promote health equity. I will pursue racial justice and health equity in Colorado and am committed to centering these efforts as we move forward as an organization. A few lessons I have learned from my experience: The pursuit of racial justice and health equity needs to be continuously centered in the work we do at CPHA. In order to create real change, we have to be diligent. While we have made progress as an organization, we also have a lot to learn. I plan to help uplift the next iteration of the health equity committee in order to continue CPHA's pursuits. The Health Equity Coalition made great strides working with the community and helping CPHA to continue to center racial justice and health equity. It is essential that we continue these efforts. We need to personally pursue continuous learning and lead humbly in areas of racial justice and health equity. I plan to continue my learning and as I previously mentioned, assisting our organization by facilitating partnerships and introducing opportunities for the Board to learn more about racial justice and health equity. I plan to help bring in others with more experience to help grow organizational knowledge so we can further our pursuit of becoming an anti-racist organization.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

One of my strengths is making a continuous conscious effort to uplift others. I have made it a priority to ensure that the voices of emerging leaders are heard and engaged in integral conversations. I worked hard to create more opportunities to engage with the emerging leaders committee than ever before. We constantly assessed ourselves and our outreach efforts to ensure racial justice and health equity were centered in the work we did, asking ourselves "How can we do better?" The strength of personal self-assessment allows me to learn, grow, and shift so that I can continue to contribute to CPHA's work towards becoming an anti-racist organization and so that I can personally be the change in the world. Leadership is a never-ending journey that requires continuous education. The support I need is education and leadership development around racial justice and health equity work. I would request the support of others who have more experience than I do to help build and mold me along my journey. I also am excited to work directly with the current president to learn more about what I can do in my pursuit of learning, lessons she has learned, and to assist with overall support. I look forward to the current presidents mentorship and will reach out to others for support as I continue through this journey of presidency.

Name: Taylor Hirschberg

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

Taylor Hirschberg stands out as a multi-faceted professional, embodying roles as a mental health epidemiologist, humanitarian, LGBTQI+ activist, public health scholar, and freelance journalist. Presently, he holds a position as a researcher in global mental health at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences at Oxford University and as an Instructor at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he contributes to their public health certificate program. Prior to Oxford and University of Colorado Taylor was the inaugural Hearst Endowed Scholar at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and a Visiting Researcher at Columbia University Global Centers. Taylor has also worked internationally with Doctors Without Borders (MSF). In his tenure with MSF his work primarily focused on tackling challenges related to forced displacement, healthcare disparities, and vaccine accessibility. On a more localized level, Hirschberg has dedicated substantial time and effort to serving the HIV community in Denver. His involvement has extended to leadership roles on both the Denver City and Colorado State boards.Apart from his public health and humanitarian efforts, Hirschberg has carved a niche for himself as a freelance journalist on a range of pressing issues including public health, forced migration, LGBTQI+ community, and literature. Today he lives in the Cole neighborhood in Denver, CO with his partner.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

Joining an organization like CPHA as president-elect, surrounded by equally passionate individuals, is not just a role; it's a calling. In these times, when public trust is a precious commodity, our mission to invigorate the public health community in Colorado is more vital than ever. It's a challenge that is as exhilarating as it is daunting, and I cannot envision embarking on this journey with any team but ours at CPHA. Leadership in such a pivotal era for public health is not just a professional endeavor; it's a personal growth journey. It's an opportunity to redefine how we, as dedicated public health professionals and community members, can drive meaningful change. This role goes beyond the boundaries of volunteer-it's a chance to leave a lasting imprint on the health and well-being of our community.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

As an experienced board member in both public and private sectors, I've learned that the key to effective leadership is a profound passion for the organization's mission. It is this deep commitment that arms with the skills and leadership capabilities to be CPHA president-elect. It is this deep commitment that shapes my approach to governance, ensuring that decisions are always aligned with the organization's core purpose. Throughout these exciting experiences, I have contributed to various stages of board development, from establishing governance structures that enhance organizational objectives. My technical expertise spans into asset and fiscal management, board and organizational restructuring, budget oversight, program development, and fundraising. I am particularly adept at grant writing and have a keen interest and robust experience in coalition building. My background as an educator and journalist complements my prior experiences in public health as it has allowed me to be actively engaged in national and international campaigns focusing on critical issues like racial and gender equality and healthcare access and a unique ability to speak to various stakeholder groups in a variety of settings. Finally, as a member of several intersecting communities that often carry a heavy burden of stigma, I will approach this role with a commitment to compassion and servant leadership with a drive for racial and gender equality and will allow me to speak to the membership, you, with both understanding and lived experiences. I believe that this blend and diverse skill set enables me to contribute effectively to organizational growth as the president-elect.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 2
Financial Literacy: 1

Fundraising: 2
Grant Writing: 3
Non-Profit Governance: 3
Effective Communication: 3
Policy: 1
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 2
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice and health equity are not just interconnected concepts; they are the lifeblood of a truly equitable and compassionate society. They represent a fierce commitment to dismantling the deep-rooted systemic barriers that have long oppressed and marginalized specific racial groups. This fight goes far beyond addressing visible discrimination or unequal access to healthcare. It is a relentless battle against the invisible, insidious forces of inequality that infiltrate every aspect of life, from socio-economic status to geographic location.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

To me, these are not passive ideals to be admired from a distance but fiery, actionable goals that demand our unwavering dedication. They implore us to dive headfirst into the heart of policy-making, to immerse ourselves in community engagement, and to commit to an ongoing journey of personal education. We must understand and confront the complex roots of racial and health disparities with a passion that burns brighter than mere awareness.This is a call to action to listen intently and amplify the often-muted voices of the marginalized. We must champion policies that foster inclusivity, tearing down the walls of injustice and inequity brick by brick. We must continuously confront and challenge our own biases, understanding that the journey towards a more equitable world is relentless and requires our heart, soul, and unyielding determination. Racial justice and health equity are not just about fairness; they are about the fundamental right to a life of dignity, respect, and opportunity for all, irrespective of race or ethnicity. My experiences in teaching and activism has given me a front row to both learning about and teaching the importance of these pillars.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

This is indeed a thought-provoking question, and I must acknowledge that providing a comprehensive answer requires talking about my very personal experiences in supporting sex workers who belong to the black and brown trans community. I learned in this work that it is vital to actively listen and to learn from the community on what their needs and wants are. Our era demands a multidisciplinary and intersectional approach to public health, where collaboration is fueled by attentive listening. With this in mind it's time to reignite the Health Equity Coalition, paving the way for the development and creawtion of impactful policy workshops and evidence-based workgroups. Moreover, let's prioritize the gathering and analysis of relevant data, amplifying the voices of the membership and the community to understand the needs and wants of both and how CPHA can support this. My hope, with the help of the membership, that this will reflect in addressing and dismantling systemic barriers, including those within CPHA. In this way, I am eager and hopeful to apply my expertise in a manner that is both informed and responsive to these specific needs and realities of our work in advancing these critical issues.

Rural Frontier Seat (3-year Term Commitment)

Name: Lisa Lucero

What areas of public health are you currently engaged?

As of this year, I am celebrating my 28th year of dedicated service with the SLV AHEC (www.slvahec.org), where I currently hold the position of Director of Implementation. In this capacity, I oversee the administration of a Promotora program titled Mi Salud y Mi Familia, which focuses on empowering the Latino community and implementing impactful health education initiatives. Additionally, I manage programming initiatives aimed at cultivating the health career pipeline, facilitating the growth and development of future healthcare professionals. Furthermore, I serve as a San Luis Valley Community Connector for CO-CEAL: Colorado Community Engagement Alliance Against Health Disparities. (https://cctsi.cuanschutz.edu/community/co-ceal) This role allows me to actively contribute to community engagement initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities within the state.Notably, I am currently spearheading the creation of the SLV Equity Coalition, a strategic effort to bring together diverse stakeholders for collaborative action in advancing health equity within the San Luis Valley.I am deeply passionate about the intersection of community health, education, and equity, and I am committed to making meaningful contributions in these areas.

What interests you about joining the CPHA board?

I am excited about the prospect of joining the Colorado Public Health Association board as this opportunity resonates with me on multiple levels, and I am eager to contribute to the community's well-being, collaborate with dedicated professionals, and actively participate in shaping impactful public health initiatives for the state.Upon reviewing the CPHA website, I was particularly encouraged to encounter an organization unapologetically committed to anti-racist principles. The unequivocal use of these terms reflects a clarity of purpose that resonates with my own values. The focus on movement-building further aligns with my desire to be part of a collective effort that transcends individual contributions and has the potential to positively impact the lives of thousands of Coloradoans.The acknowledgement of a 'working board' culture is particularly appealing to me. While it may deter some potential applicants, it is, in fact, a source of excitement for me. I am eager to roll up my sleeves, immerse myself in the intricacies of public health challenges, and actively engage in the practical aspects of effecting change. I view this as an opportunity to not only contribute strategically, but also to get my hands dirty in the pursuit of meaningful outcomes.

What skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for this board position?

I believe this is where I should taut my education and experience, something like this: I believe my combination of education, skills and experiences uniquely positions me to contribute effectively to this board. My background in public health and previous board experiences has equipped me with a solid foundation in strategic planning, financial management, and leadership...blah blah blah. However, I believe what truly distinguishes me as a strong candidate is my lived experience as a woman of color in a rural community. This perspective has cultivated in me a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by my community members, and a passionate commitment to addressing these challenges. My love for my community is not merely a sentiment but a driving force behind my track record of not merely letting things happen, but actively making positive change occur. What I bring to the table is not just theoretical knowledge but a practical understanding of the needs and aspirations of the community we serve. My willingness to dedicate time to a working board and my inclination to speak up when I witness unjust actions are not just commitments but reflections of my core values and dedication to fostering equity and justice.

Level of Experience:

Budget and Financial Management: 2
Cross-sectoral partnerships: 3
JEDI: 3
Financial Literacy: 3

Fundraising: 2
Grant Writing: 2
Non-Profit Governance: 2
Effective Communication: 2
Policy: 1
Data Skills: 2
Programmatic Expertise: 3
Systems and strategic thinking: 3

Community Engagement: 3

What do racial justice and health equity mean to you?

Racial justice and health equity are fundamental principles that resonate deeply with me. To me, racial justice involves dismantling systemic barriers that disproportionately impact marginalized communities based on race. It's about creating a fair and inclusive society where every individual, regardless of their racial or ethnic background, has equal access to opportunities, resources, and a life of dignity. Health equity, on the other hand, extends the concept of justice into the realm of healthcare. It means ensuring that everyone has the same chance to attain their highest level of health. This involves addressing the social determinants of health, tackling disparities in healthcare access, and promoting policies that uplift the most vulnerable populations. Personally, I view racial justice and health equity as interconnected and indispensable components of creating a just and compassionate society. It means acknowledging historical injustices, dismantling systemic discrimination, and actively working towards policies and practices that foster equality and well-being for all. In my professional and personal pursuits, I am committed to advocating for policies that promote racial justice and health equity. I believe in leveraging my skills and influence to contribute to a world where no one's health outcomes are determined by their racial or ethnic background.

Please tell us about your experience and/or commitment to growth in racial justice and health equity.

In both my professional and personal life, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to advancing racial justice and health equity. One notable experience that reflects this commitment is the creation of a Promotora Movement in the San Luis Valley during the pandemic. In this instance, I actively created the programming with the aim of addressing racial disparities and promoting equitable health outcomes for Latinos. Furthermore, my involvement in Soul Players of the Valley and a board member of the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado has allowed me to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding racial justice and health equity. On a personal level, my commitment extends to continuous self-education. I actively seek out literature, attend workshops, and engage in conversations that broaden my understanding of the complexities surrounding racial disparities and health inequities. This commitment to learning is integral to my belief that growth in this area requires ongoing education, self-reflection, and an openness to diverse perspectives. Looking ahead, I am eager to bring this commitment to your organization and collaborate on initiatives that foster growth in racial justice and health equity.

In what areas of racial justice and health equity work within CPHA do you think you'd contribute the most, and in what work area(s) do you feel you may need more support?

In considering my potential contributions to racial justice and health equity work within CPHA, I believe my strengths lie in community engagement and program development. My background and experiences in the work I have performed with CO-CEAL, the development of a local equity coalition and the local Promotora Movement, have equipped me with a solid foundation to make meaningful contributions in these areas. I am particularly enthusiastic about the CPHA Health Equity Coalition that aligns with my skills and interests. I am confident that my experiences and skills will contribute effectively to the success of that initiative. However, I recognize that there is always room for growth, and I am eager to seek support and learning opportunities in areas where I may need more assistance. For instance, navigating complex policy landscapes. I am committed to ongoing education and collaboration to strengthen my abilities in these aspects.