G3.01 - Roundtable: Teaching Public Health in Higher Education: Conversation about the Current Climate

Brief Abstract Summary: Join us as we collaboratively explore the growing polarization of public health issues affecting many classroom discussion and learning environments. Though public health has always been political to some degree in that it is influenced by policy and funding, in the wake of recent political divides it has become more challenging to discuss public health research in some states. Even in less restrictive environments, students may experience public health issues as highly controversial, often perceiving faculty-shared research as politically charged.

In this roundtable, a faculty member and two students will share strategies for navigating these challenges and facilitate a discussion on successful approaches from other regions. Together, we will explore how to build a mentorship network that supports the development of the next generation of public health professionals.

Detailed abstract description: Presenters will lead a collaborative discussion on ways to support public health faculty and students in conservative areas. The growing polarization of public health issues impacts many within university programs, creating barriers to confidently sharing research in certain states. Students in these regions often view public health topics as highly controversial, perceiving faculty-shared research as politically charged rather than integral to the field.

This session provides an opportunity for faculty and students in red states or regions to discuss what is and is not working in teaching and learning within these environments, and to share practical solutions. Presenters will briefly introduce the issue and share one potential solution—the “Public Health Program Faculty – Scientific/Political Statement,” which is now embedded in their university program syllabi—before facilitating a participant-driven discussion. Attendees will be encouraged to share their insights and perspectives, and student voices will be central to the conversation.

Teaching public health in red states, where issues and communities are often demonized, drains faculty and students alike. Public health graduates working in these regions face similar challenges, often leading to a "brain drain" as professionals leave the areas where they are needed most. Presenters aim to build a network of faculty and students that provide ongoing resources, support, and solutions nationwide and throughout the academic year. These connections will ideally serve as a protective factor for students entering the public health workforce in these regions.