The Oz Nelson Public Health Academy Endowed Fund, established in memory of Kent C. "Oz" Nelson, honors his unwavering commitment to youth development and public health leadership by expanding and enhancing the David J. Sencer CDC Museum Public Health Academy for youth.
With the demand for public health workers at an all-time high, investing in the development pipeline of the public health workforce, beginning with adolescent youth, is essential to protecting and improving health. A diverse, well-trained and competent public health workforce is the cornerstone to building a stronger healthcare system and healthier, more resilient communities.
The CDC Museum Public Health Academy (PHA) features STEM-based educational programs that offer experiential in-person and online learning experiences for high school students. Many of the PHA's programs provide opportunities for youth to engage with volunteer Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) subject matter experts in various capacities. The PHA's compelling career-oriented content introduces young minds to the possibilities of a career in public health. It stands as the only free, easily accessible public health education program for high school students, however, due to limited resources, the program struggles to meet the growing demand from students. Current PHA program components include:
- Disease Detective Camp: In-person summer program for high school juniors and seniors over two week-long sessions, simulating the epidemiologic, laboratory and public affairs work of CDC employees during a mock outbreak investigation.
- PHA Online Summer Course: Virtual academic summer experience allowing high school students to engage in a web-based course with topics ranging from public health interventions to global health to emergency preparedness and more.
- Teen Newsletter: Newsletter introducing teens to population health concerns studied by CDC and featuring additional highlights such as behind-the-scenes views of historical items from the CDC Museum Collection and live Teen Talks featuring CDC experts.
- STEM Lessons for Educators: Free teacher resources to educate students about public health through the integration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), offering inquiry-based, hands-on activities for middle or high school students.
In celebration and memory of Oz Nelson, your contribution will help the CDC Foundation to establish a $2.5 million endowment to expand and enhance the David J. Sencer CDC Museum Public Health Academy for youth.
Make a gift that has lasting impact. To support this important program, visit cdcf.link/PHAcademyFund.
