The current political climate has ushered in a wave of uncertainty, change, and urgency within public health. As an MPH candidate preparing to enter the field, I’ve often grappled with how to navigate this shifting landscape with both clarity and purpose. Participating in the Leadership Training Program (LTP) offered a space not only to make sense of these challenges, but to grow as a more resilient, informed, and strategic leader.
One of the most valuable aspects of LTP was the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of public health experts—each bringing a unique lens to the conversation. Just as impactful was the chance to grow alongside a cohort of peers equally dedicated to public health and self-development. The combination of mentorship, collaboration, and skill-building helped me build confidence in facing the unknown. I left the program with a stronger understanding of which tools to use when, how to stay grounded in my values, and how to adapt to new challenges without losing sight of my purpose.
One highlight of the program was our mock Hill Day and legislative advocacy workshop. In this session, we were challenged to advocate for a public health issue in a polarized legislative environment. It reinforced how essential policy literacy is for all public health professionals—especially now, when support for our field is not guaranteed. The experience sharpened my ability to communicate strategically with policymakers, even those who may be resistant to public health priorities.
Another session that left a lasting impression focused on the social determinants of health and the complex systems that perpetuate inequities. We discussed how to engage communities that may not trust or support public health interventions, and how to center equity and systems-level thinking even when we can't always say everything explicitly. These conversations reminded me that being a public health professional requires more than technical knowledge—it requires empathy, humility, and the ability to meet people where they are.
As I transition into the public health workforce, I will carry the lessons of the Leadership Training Program with me. I feel better equipped to lead with dexterity and compassion in an evolving field. The LTP has deepened my commitment to equity, community partnership, and systemic change—and has reminded me that leadership is as much about listening and learning as it is about taking action.