By addressing root causes of health inequities, we can build meaningful, lasting systems change to create inclusive, equitable public health systems.

Lorenza Beati, PhD, gave us instructions as we gathered on a nature trail in Statesboro, GA. “Don’t believe the sock theory. Ticks can bite through socks, and they can go through the mesh of socks. Use the Deet available. And tape the bottom of your pants. We have duct tape.”

“Public health isn’t just about epidemiology; it’s about taking care of these people who volunteer to help vaccinate in places where there is the threat of true danger,” says the program manager for the Bob Keegan Polio Eradication Heroes Fund.

1 in 8 people living with HIV in the United States is undiagnosed. Driven by COVID-19 lockdowns and closures, HIV self-testing increased over the past two years, and it has proven to be a cost-effective way to make HIV testing more accessible.

“Live to the Beat” is a national effort that aims to educate, equip and empower Black adults ages 34-54 with the heart-healthy information, tools, resources and messages needed to reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke.

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, local artists and cultural organizations communicated essential public health information to their communities.

To assist health departments during COVID-19, the CDC Foundation, with support from CDC, created the Workforce/Vaccine Initiative, deploying professionals to fill critical roles in 95 jurisdictions around the country. Among the field employees were epidemiologists, communications specialists, data analysts, public health nurses, infection preventionists and others. In total through all of its staffing efforts, the CDC Foundation hired more than 4,000 staff during the pandemic utilizing both public and private support.

“It’s a calling,” says Valerie Kokor about her long career in public health, “but you don’t always know your calling right away.” Valerie’s story is one of twists and turns, successes and failures, and an ongoing commitment to the field of public health—even in retirement today.