GSGA February Newsletter

February 23, 2024

Dear CUNY SPH community,

Wishing you a fantastic February filled with joy, success, and new opportunities! As we delve into this month of love and growth, we hope you’re surrounded by positivity and good vibes.

We have some incredible events lined up, and we’d love for you to be a part of them! Your presence adds a special touch to our community, and we can’t wait to share these moments of celebration with you.

May your February be a blend of accomplishment, relaxation, and moments that make your heart smile.

Sincerely,

Your 2023-2024 GSGA

GSGA Awards

Updates!

The GSGA awards are designed to support students with the costs of community service events, conferences, workshops, and publications. They can also be used for professional growth and development opportunities that students may want to pursue during their time here at SPH.

The 2024 awards include:

• Publication and Dissemination Award
• Community Service Award
• Student Success Award

We are currently in the process of updating all of our new award guidelines on the GSGA website. We want to apologize for any delay and/or confusion we may have caused, but we can assure you that all of this information will be updated ASAP.

If you have any questions, you can email GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Virtual Movie Night

Save the Date:

Thursday February 29 | 6 PM – 8 PM

“Hitting Home” A Story about Teens, Dating and Violence

We are pleased to present “Hitting Home,” a film that is both compelling and thought-provoking, in honor of February’s theme of teen dating violence. This gripping story explores the complicated and frequently disregarded problem of teen dating violence, illuminating its widespread occurrence and significant effects on both individuals and communities.

Teen dating violence is a serious public health issue in addition to a personal and interpersonal issue. A comprehensive knowledge of the problem is made possible by approaching it from a public health standpoint, which also makes it easier to coordinate efforts to improve adolescent wellbeing, lower the incidence of dating violence, and make society as a whole safer.

Register using this link

Public Health Workforce Student Loan Repayment–Sign-on Letter and Advocacy Opportunity

Attention public health students and graduates: Unlike other health professions, there’s currently no specific loan repayment or forgiveness program for you. Despite a 2006 law mandating it, the program has never been funded. With the challenges faced by the public health workforce due to Covid, there’s an urgent need to revitalize the field. A sign-on letter to Congress for funding the Public Health Workforce Loan Repayment program is available below. Act now to support the future of public health professionals before the program expires in 2025.

Here’s the letter: https://lnkd.in/eNabZ7iN

Here’s the link to sign: Public Health Loan Repayment Sign-on Letter 2024

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. We will be holding our next meeting on February 29, 2024.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up-and-coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA Newsletter

January 30, 2024

Dear CUNY SPH community,

Welcome back and happy new year!

We would like to send our best wishes to each and every member of our amazing CUNY SPH family as we approach the start of a brand-new year. We hope that you are doing well, feeling upbeat, and enjoying the excitement that comes with starting a new semester.

We are delighted to share with you the details of a number of great events we have planned for the upcoming year! We hope you can join us! Our community is alive and dynamic because of your presence, and we are looking forward to making memories that will last a lifetime together.

We hope that the upcoming year is full of happiness, prosperity, and amazing possibilities. We are wishing you a successful and joyful 2024!

Sincerely,

Your 2023 – 2024 GSGA

Welcome New Students!

It gives us great pleasure to welcome you to the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy community. Your distinct abilities and thoughts are a great asset to our active academic community. Prepare yourself for a rewarding journey of discovery and development. Cheers to an amazing semester!

Please access this link to visit the Student Life page. You will be able to learn how to access all the information and student services available across CUNY SPH.

Back to School Social

When: Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Time: 5 PM – 7 Pm

Where: CUNY SPH

Virtual registration: Registration Link

In-person registration – Registration Link

Please join us at the Back-To-School Social! This event promises an exciting opportunity for students to reconnect with both faculty and fellow classmates. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant atmosphere, the event offers a perfect blend of socializing and networking. Attendees can enjoy a variety of delectable refreshments, while fostering a relaxed and enjoyable environment. The highlight of the evening includes a dynamic Q&A session, providing students with the chance to engage directly with faculty members and learn more about their scholarship and passion that drives it. Moreover, representatives from various student clubs will be present, offering insights into student activities and encouraging students to explore new interests. This Back-To-School Social not only nourishes the academic spirit but also cultivates a sense of community and collaboration within the student body.

We hope to see you there!!

Seeking Nominees for GSGA and GC

Wondering how to get involved in student government? Beginning in March 2024, the CUNY SPH and the Graduate Student Government Association will be seeking nominations for student representatives to serve for the 2024-2025 academic year for the following:

• Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA)
• CUNY SPH Governance Council (GC) (7 GC representatives and 2 alternates)
• SPH Committee for Equity and Inclusion (2 CEI representatives)
• CUNY SPH Faculty-Student Disciplinary Committee (2 FSDC representatives)

Student representation on the GSGA, GC, CEI and FSDC is critical to ensuring student priorities and needs are being met.

***Eligibility***

All matriculated students in good standing are eligible to be nominated and elected to serve for 1-year terms, renewal up to 3 years. Students can be nominated and elected to serve on more than one body (GSGA, GC, FSDC) or Committee. All nominees should be planning to enroll in both the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters. Students planning to graduate in Fall 2024 are not eligible to be nominated.

Stay tuned for the Call for Nominations in March. Direct any questions regarding nominations for student leadership positions at SPH to StudentLife@sph.cuny.edu.

Belle Zeller Scholarship Fund

Wishing you a Happy New Year from

The Belle Zeller Scholarship Trust Fund!

Kindly remember The Fund is

currently accepting submissions for Fall 2024.

Your students can access the applications at www.bellezeller.org.

Please take note of the February 29, 2024, deadline and

share the word with your faculty and students.

Thank you!

Narcan Trainings at SPH

Join us for an in-person event at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy! The Harlem Health Initiative is hosting a Narcan Training with the NYC DOHMH to educate and empower the community. Learn how to administer Narcan, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. Attendees will receive a Narcan bag and test strips for Xylazine (Tranq) & Fentanyl. This event is open to all and aims to increase awareness and preparedness. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference and save lives!

Two available sessions on February 7, 2024 @ 10 AM & 3 PM

Register here: https://HHI-narcan-training.eventbrite.com

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. We will be holding our next meeting on February 15, 2024.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up-and-coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA Newsletter

December 14, 2023

Dear CUNY SPH community,

Happy December and Happy Holidays!

We hope you are healthy and in a cheerful mood as we near the close of another tough yet rewarding semester. We also hope you’re staying warm, and facing those final exams with optimism.

Excitement is in the air as we prepare for a series of wonderful events, and we can’t wait for you to join us! Your presence will add an extra layer of joy, ensuring that they are genuinely unforgettable.

Thank you for being such an important member of the SPH community. Best of luck on your finals, YOU GOT THIS! We wish you a joyous holiday season and a relaxing break full of warmth and fun. See you next year!

We are excited to welcome the newest member of our Executive Council, Pankti Patel, as our Communications Officer!

Sincerely,

Your 2023-2024 GSGA

GSGA President: Zaire S. Ali

GSGA Vice President: Shari Jardine

GSGA Treasurer: Antionette Latrice Wearing

GSGA Communications Officer: Pankti Patel

GSGA Town Hall

Thank you to those who joined us for the last Town Hall held on November 9, 2023. For those who were unable to join us, here is the link to the recording. Your feedback is critical to making the 2023-2024 school year genuinely memorable. Towards this end, we urge you to reach out to us at GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu to submit unique ideas for events, programs, campus activities, and any other ideas you may have for the upcoming semester.

You’re invited to take the GSGA’s End of the Semester Survey. This anonymous survey is meant to help us assess students’ attitudes towards the SPH experience and to provide the opportunity for students to provide feedback on their experiences to improve the school and its offerings.

Here is the link to our student feedback survey.

Thank you to everyone who takes the survey, it’s a helpful way for the GSGA to make improvements and help tailor future experiences for students.

Finals Relaxation: Join Us for an Unwind and Unplug Event!

Date: Monday, December 18, 2023 and Wednesday 20, 2023

Time: 4pm-8pm

Room 503 (GSGA Room)

Finals week is here, and it’s time to embrace your inner academic superhero! We know you’ve been working hard all semester, and now it’s time to show off your knowledge and dedication. Remember this as you go through the study sessions, late-night caffeine-fueled cramming, and possibly a few stress-induced snack breaks: you are more than capable, and you have prepared for this moment.

To help make it easier, we have just what you need to help you relax and refresh! Join us for an entertaining event meant to give you a break from your textbooks and a chance to relax with your fellow graduate students.

Come enjoy a relaxed setting where you can relax, connect with your friends, and participate in stress-relieving activities. We have comfy seatings, soothing vibes, and a few surprises in store to ensure you leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle those finals with fresh energy.

What to look forward to:

Snack and Sip: Enjoy some light snacks and beverages.

Peer Support: Share your finals week thoughts and get advice from your peers.

Don’t pass up this chance to relax and replenish your batteries. Remember that your well-being is equally as essential as your academic achievement! We hope to see you there!

Paws For The Cause

Do you need a break from studying and want to destress? Perhaps it is time to indulge in a brief “Paws 4 the Cause!”

Thank you to all our students, faculty and staff who shared your adorable pets with us to bring a little joy during the Reading Period as you prepare for your finals.

This Paws for the Cause video will be available for viewing at any time (including after finals are over). Enjoy!

Wishing you all the best with finals!

Student Clubs

Our vibrant student clubs will introduce you to a world of chances to interact, study, and grow! Our clubs provide a platform for different experiences and important relationships, whether you want to explore new hobbies, network with classmates, or improve your skill set.

Why Should You Join a Student Club?

• Networking: Make connections with peers, instructors, and industry professionals who share your interests.

• Develop your talents and acquire hands-on experience by participating in workshops, events, and collaborative projects.

• Participate in community service activities and outreach programs to make a difference in your community.

• Social Connection: Through club socials, activities, and outings, you can form long-lasting friendships and create wonderful memories.

Visit Our Student Clubs:

• PHIIRE Club : Population Health Informatics Innovation, Research, and Education
• CUNY SPH LGBTQ+ Association
• Sustainable SPH Club
• SPH Sexual & Reproductive Health Rights & Justice Club
• International Students Club

For more information, visit our website and let us know if you’re interested or want to start a new club!

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. The dates of upcoming meetings will be included in the next newsletter.

Should you like to attend the meetings and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up-and-coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Newsletter

October 27, 2023

Dear CUNY SPH community, Happy Fall!

We hope you’re enjoying the cool weather and spending quality time outside. Congratulations on making it to the halfway point of the Fall semester and for working so hard! We know that trying to balance life, school, friends, and family, can be pretty daunting, but if you’re reading this; you are AWESOME!

We’re happy to share several exciting events, and we hope to see you there with us.

Sincerely,

Your 2023-2024 GSGA

Introducing your 2023 – 2024

GSGA Executive Council

President: Zaire S. Ali, MPH, Ed.M.

Vice President: Shari Jardine, MPH, MA

Treasurer: Antionette Latrice Wearing

GSGA Town Hall

November 9th | 5 PM – 6 PM | Room 503 (GSGA Room)

RSVP In-person| RSVP Online

The first town hall of the 2023 – 2024 school year will be held in person in room 503 and we will have a Zoom link for all of you who cannot make it in person. The purpose of this town hall is to create a safe space for all students to come and learn about the events and programs that we are hosting for the fall semester, educate you about the student clubs here at SPH, and hear about YOUR ideas to make SPH a place that each and every; student loves to call their academic home away from home!

We cannot make the 2023 – 2024 school year amazing without your input!

We would like all of you to come full of ideas regarding the events, programs, campus activities, and everything each of you would like to see happen from now, until the end of the year! If you cannot make the event in person don’t fret; we will have a poll for all of our Zoom crew to fill out.

Light refreshments will be served at the event.

Seeking Communications Officer

A Message from The GSGA

The GSGA is seeking a communications officer for the 2023 – 2024 school year!

In this role, you will be required to collaborate with the GSGA President, Vice President, and Treasurer, to ensure the mission and vision of the organization are foremost while keeping students up to date with timely matters, help manage the GSGA email, website, and social media accounts, assign task to the body to support us in executing the duties of your role, send out newsletters, attend GSGA meetings, assist in editing the website and keeping the calendar up to date with upcoming programs that the GSGA and student clubs plan to host.

The above will be your main duties, but you may be tasked with more or less depending on what is needed to ensure students are kept abreast and have timely communications.

There is not a set number of hours that will be required per month, but you can expect to dedicate between 3 – 6 hours per week depending on the various meetings we have and tasks that are assigned to you. It is expected that the communications officer will ensure they fulfill their duties to the student body.

This position does not have an hourly wage, but officers will receive a stipend of $595 at the end of each of the fall and spring semesters.

If you are interested or want to learn more about the communications officer role, please do not hesitate to reach out to us!

Seeking Senators for Student Leadership

Another Message from The GSGA

The GSGA is seeking a Doctoral Senator and Advanced Certificate Senator to serve alongside the current body for the 2023 – 2024 school year!

In this role, you will be required to Collaborate with the current GSGA and ensure the mission and vision of the organization are foremost while adhering to the duties assigned to you to carry out individually and as a member of the entire team. You will be required to attend GSGA meetings, serve on various sub-committees, communicate with the team, and help keep the calendar up to date with upcoming programs that the GSGA and student clubs plan to host. You will also be an advocate for the student body and will be the direct liaison from the students to the GSGA to bring any issues to the body.

You can email us at GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

CUNY SPH GSGA

Dean’s Dissertation Award

On behalf of Terry McGovern, JD, Senior Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, and Dr. Michele Kiely, Associate Dean for Research, we would like to invite you to submit an application for the Dean’s Dissertation Award for Fall 2023.

In order to be eligible, you must be actively enrolled, in good academic standing in a doctoral program, have successfully defended your dissertation proposal, and have received IRB approval for your dissertation proposal (or have been deemed exempt by the HRPP).

Proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.

When submitting your proposal, please copy Michele.kiely@sph.cuny.edu, terry.mcgovern@sph.cuny.edu, and ingrid.kalemi@sph.cuny.edu.

If you have any questions, please direct them to Dr. Kiely

A Message from Dean Roberts

“Dear CHSS students,

We are seeking a CHSS doctoral or master’s student to serve as a departmental representative on the SPH Governance Council (GC) during the 2023-2024 academic year? This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with

We would welcome your voice, talents and wisdom on the GG to ensure that we are responding to the unique needs of our CHSS students.

If you are interested in serving as the CHSS departmental representative, please send an email to StudentLife@sph.cuny.edu by 12pm EST on Friday, October 27, 2023. Please include the following information: 1) your full name; 2) EMPL ID; 3) your degree program; and 4) a brief statement telling us why you would like to serve as a GC student representative for CHSS in 2023-2024. Please note that you will need to be enrolled at SPH through May 2024 in order to be considered. All who respond and are eligible (i.e., must be a currently enrolled masters or doctoral student in good academic standing) will then be put forward as a candidate to be voted upon in a survey by the CHSS student body. If only one candidate steps forward, they will become the GC representative.

Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you!”

Dean Roberts

Associate Dean of Student Affairs & Alumni Relations

Updates!

GSGA Awards

The GSGA awards are designed to support students with the costs of community service events, conferences, workshops, and publications. They can also be used for professional growth and development opportunities that students may want to pursue during their time here at SPH.

The 2023 – 2024 awards include:

• Manuscript Publication Award
• Community Service Award
• Conference Award
• Professional Growth Award

We are currently in the process of updating all of our award guidelines, and materials needed to process your bequest in a timely manner. We want to apologize for any delay and/or confusion we may have caused, but we can assure you that all of this information will be updated ASAP.

If you have any questions, you can email GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

SPH Events

CUNY SPH Virtual Speed Networking

Wednesday, November 8 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | RSVP

The Office of Career Services is pleased to present Virtual Speed Networking! Showcase your Professional Introduction and engage in meaningful discussion with participating public health professionals and employers in a structured, small-group setting. Speed Networking is a great way to expand your own professional connections while gaining insight into career options.

Register today to receive event instructions and resources, and check out a list of participating employers and professionals here.

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. We will be holding our next meeting on October 30, 2023.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up-and-coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Newsletter

April 4, 2023

Hello SPH students, 

Happy Spring! We hope that you’re enjoying the nice weather and spending some quality time outside. Congratulations on making it to the halfway point of the Spring semester and for working so hard.

There are several exciting events that we’re happy to share, and we hope to see you there with us.

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

Call for Student Nominations: 2023-2024 GSGA and Governance Council

We are seeking nominations for student representatives for the 2023-2024 CUNY SPH GSGA, Governance Council (GC – 7 representatives and 2 alternatives), Committee for Equity and Inclusion (CEI – 2 representatives), and the Faculty-Student Disciplinary Committee (FSDC – 2 representatives). Student representation is crucial to ensuring that the priorities and needs of students are being met. 

All matriculated students in good standing are eligible to be nominated and elected to serve for 1-year terms, renewal up to 3 years. Students can be nominated and elected to serve on more than one body (GSGA, GC, FSDC) or Committee. All nominees should plan to be enrolled in both the Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 semesters – students planning to graduate in fall 2023 are not eligible. 

To self-nominate, please use this nomination form link.

Online nominations will be open until Sunday April 9th at 11:59 PM EST. 

Online voting will take place from Monday, April 17 through Friday, April 28 at 12:00 PM Noon EST.

All candidates will be permitted to campaign throughout the entire voting period in accordance with University Rules and are invited to attend a GSGA sponsored Candidates’ Forum to be held the week of April 17. The exact date and details will be determined once the candidates are identified and certified.

For more about eligibility requirements, the responsibilities expected of student representatives, and additional information about the positions, you can visit the GSGA website.

National Public Health Week: Centering and Celebrating Cultures in Health, April 3rd-April 9th

This week is National Public Health Week, and this year’s theme is Centering and Celebrating Cultures in Health. Each day has a dedicated theme that reflects some important public health issues around the country, and we have included recordings of lectures, symposiums, and workshops centering on these themes:  

Monday: Community

• Contributing to the Public’s Good: Foundational, Core and Local Public Health Services
• Reimagining Public Health for NYC: A Discussion on the Racial Wealth Gap and Health Equity

Tuesday: Violence Prevention

• The Deadly Intersection of White Supremacy and Firearms
• Firearms, Intimate Partner Violence, and Women’s Health

Wednesday: Reproductive and Sexual Health

• Reproductive Rights in the Age of Dobbs
• Reproductive Health Beyond Borders

Thursday: Mental Health

• Reinventing mental health care
• Healing with Housing: Decriminalizing the Unhoused & Mentally Ill

Friday: Rural Health

• ​​The Rural Mental Health Crisis
• A Conversation on Health Disparities in Rural New York

Saturday: Accessibility

• Centering Disability in the Public Health Agenda
• The Digital Future of Health

Sunday: Food and Nutrition

• Eating for a healthy body and a healthy planet
• Transforming the Nation’s Food System: Lessons from the New Deal and Strategies for Today

You can view all of the APHA-affiliated events for National Public Health Week here.

CUNY SPH Health and Wellness Week 2023

Monday April 17  |  Events Calendar

You’re invited to join the Office of Counseling and Wellness Services for the CUNY SPH Wellness Week 2023! We will be partnering with community organizations committed to providing health education, prevention, and intervention strategies that are rooted in cultural humility, intersectionality, and focused on equitable delivery of services. 

A diverse range of webinars, panels, and workshops will be offered, targeting various dimensions of health (including emotional, intellectual, physical, and financial). As always, we drive to promote health equity by providing advocates a platform that serves to empower students with vital information and resources.

New York State Public Health Association (NYSPHA) Memberships

The Graduate Student Government Association is delighted to share with the student body that we will be securing NYSPHA membership for 25 CUNY SPH students.

You can fill out the survey here 

If you’re interested in becoming a NYSPHA member, please fill out the survey by Wednesday, April 19th, 2023.

Selection of members will be determined on a first-come, first-served basis, and the membership will be active for one year from the date of purchase by the GSGA.

Benefits of NYSPHA membership include:

• Free registration for the NYSPHA’s Public Health Webinar series
• Discounted registration for the Public Health Partnership Conference
• Access to the NYSPHA’s public health job board and member directory for networking
• Members-only e-news and advocacy alerts
• Discounted (or free- TBD) registration for the NYSPHA’s Workshop Series. 2023’s series will be focused on public health leadership development
• Ability to serve on various statewide committees, including policy and advocacy
• Preference for NYSPHA internships

GSGA Awards – Deadline May 1st!

The GSGA awards are designed to support students with the costs of community service events, conferences, workshops, and publications. They can also be used for professional growth and development opportunities that students may want to pursue.

The 2023 awards include:

• Manuscript Publication Award
• Community Service Award
• Conference Award
• Professional Growth Award

All applications must be received by May 1st, 2023 at 11:59 PM.

Please see the GSGA website for the budget form, award guidelines, and applications.

If you have any questions, you can email GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. We will be holding our next meeting on April 13.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up and coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Facebook Group

GSGA Instagram

GSGA Twitter

GSGA Newsletter

March 21, 2023

Hello SPH students, 

Happy Spring! We hope that you’re enjoying the nice weather and spending some quality time outside. Congratulations on making it to the halfway point of the Spring semester and for working so hard.

There are several exciting events that we’re happy to share, and we hope to see you there with us.

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

Documentary Screening & Panel Event: Aftershock

March 23  |  6 PM – 8 PM  |  Room 708 (Auditorium), RSVP

You’re invited to join the Maternal, Child, Reproductive and Sexual Health Specialization (MCRSH) and the Reproductive Rights, Health and Justice Club for a special screening of the award-winning documentary Aftershock.

Following the film will be a Q&A with Shawnee Benton Gibson, facilitated by Professor Diana Romero.

Light refreshments will be served at the event.

Transgender Health & Rights Panel

March 29  |  6 PM – 7:30 PM  |  RSVP

In honor of Trans Day of Visibility, the CUNY SPH LGBTQ+ Association and the CUNY SPH GSGA invite you to join us for a virtual panel event on transgender health and rights and hear from a diverse panel of leaders fighting for transgender justice and equality in medicine, education, and research sectors.

We will be in conversation with activist Lindz Amer, LGBTQ+ educator Dr. Genny Beemyn, CEO of Transhealth Dallas Ducar, clinical researcher Ali Haris, and social worker Dr. Shane’a Thomas to learn how we as future public health professionals can support, uplift, and advance the trans rights movement today.

GSGA Awards – Deadline May 1st!

The GSGA awards are designed to support students with the costs of community service events, conferences, workshops, and publications. They can also be used for professional growth and development opportunities that students may want to pursue.

The 2023 awards include:

• Manuscript Publication Award
• Community Service Award
• Conference Award
• Professional Growth Award

All applications must be received by May 1st, 2023 at 11:59 PM.

Please see the GSGA website for the budget form, award guidelines, and applications.

If you have any questions, you can email GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

SPH Events

Ending Housing Instability and Homelessness Among CUNY Students – What Will it Take?

March 23  |  1 PM – 2:30 PM  |  RSVP

Join Healthy CUNY for this virtual forum featuring Dr. Rashida Crutchfield, a national expert on housing instability, and a panel discussion with Ann Shalof, Dr. Waleek Boone, and other program, policy and student experts.

The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Nicholas Freudenberg, Healthy CUNY Founder and Faculty Director.

Faith-Based Conversations on Cannabis Legalization

March 27  |  6 PM – 7:30 PM  |  RSVP

You’re invited to join the Harlem Health Initiative and partners for this informative and engaging webinar about the benefits and roadblocks of cannabis legalization and how this will impact Harlem.

Speakers will provide an overview of the history of cannabis prohibition and how it has impacted Harlemites, followed by a panel discussion aiming to provide knowledge and guidance to faith-based organizations and community members. A Q&A from the panel experts will follow.

Wellness Events

LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group

March 23  |  6 PM – 7 PM  |  Zoom Link

The Office of Counseling and Wellness Services is holding an LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group every Thursday at 6 PM.

This group is for students interested in discussing sexuality, gender identity and a sense of self, and who are looking for solidarity and camaraderie within the LGBTQIA+ community. A safe and affirming space will be provided for students to speak openly about their experiences, promote their overall well-being, and offer support for each other.

First-Generation Student Support Group

March 27  |  5 PM – 6 PM  |  Zoom Link

The Office of Counseling and Wellness Services is holding a First-Generation Student Support Group every Monday at 5 PM.

This group is for students who would like to share diverse experiences as a first-generation student or a person who is close to a first-generation student. A safe and non-judgemental space will be provided for students to voice their responses to current events and policies that may impact them, their families, and/or communities.

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. We will be holding our next meeting on April 13.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up and coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Newsletter

December 20, 2022

Hello SPH students, 

Many congratulations for finishing up the Fall semester with great effort and aplomb. We encourage you to take a few moments to recognize and reflect upon how far you’ve come, and to give yourself credit for all of your hard work this semester. 

Our newsletter will be on a brief hiatus, but as always, you can follow us on Instagram and Twitter for public health news, events, and community happenings. We look forward to welcoming you back for the Spring semester, and keep an eye out for our upcoming GSGA events. 

We hope that you will have a restorative Winter Break, and wish you a delightful holiday season and a most marvelous New Year!

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

Upcoming Virtual Office Hours with Dr. Dave Chokshi

Tuesday January 10  |  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM  | RSVP

The Office of Career Services invites you to join CUNY SPH Senior Scholar Dr. Dave Chokshi for virtual hours via Zoom. 

Stop by to speak with Dr. Chokshi, learn about his work, advocacy, and leadership, and discuss your academic and professional pursuits.

Note that you must pre-register beforehand in order to be admitted into the Zoom call. 

Spotlight On: Intervene Upstream

Why Public Health?

Intervene Upstream is an online peer-reviewed public health publication run by and geared towards graduate students in public health. They share work written by students on a rolling basis, ranging from journalism, opinion pieces, and scientific articles, to personal narrative essays and literary fiction. 

They are currently looking for answers to the question “Why Public Health?” You can share your story about why you are pursuing a degree in public health using this short survey, and if you’d like to expand upon this, they are also currently accepting longer submissions on their website.

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association without voice. We will be holding our next meeting on January 5. A schedule of our Spring semester meetings will be included in our next newsletter.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu at least 24 hours before the time of the meeting and we will send the Zoom link.

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up and coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Facebook Group

GSGA Instagram

GSGA Twitter

GSGA Newsletter

December 6, 2022

Hello SPH students,

Welcome to the “final” countdown for exams, projects, and the end of the semester!

Some great events are coming up soon that may help to inspire you in your academic journey, or perhaps will help take your mind off things as you enjoy the process of learning something interesting.

Take good care of yourself and remember that it’s OK to take a break. 

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

Origami and Sip Event

Thanks to all who came out for our Origami & Sip event last Wednesday! We had a wonderful time creating origami crafts together, learning delicious drink recipes for the holiday season, sharing cool bits of history, and connecting with you all. 

In the spirit of such a joyous event, we warmly wish you all “1000 cranes for finals.” May you all find inspiration, hope and the best of luck during these long nights!

If you’d like to learn more about the history of origami, see tutorials for the crafts that we did, and check out the scrumptious drink recipes, you can do so on our website. 

We look forward to bringing you more great student events for the Spring 2023 semester. Please be sure to continue checking your emails for updates from the GSGA.

SPH Events

The State of Mental Health in Harlem: A Review of Harlem Strong’s Needs Assessment Findings

December 7 |  1:30 PM – 3 PM  |  RSVP

The Harlem Strong Initiative is a novel partnership between CUNY SPH, local community organizations, and Healthfirst, who have joined together to conduct a community needs assessment to understand the challenges Harlem residents are facing due to COVID-19.

Harlem Strong will review this community needs assessment and reveal insights about how the pandemic has impacted the mental health and stress levels of Harlemites, and how community and faith-based organizations have addressed these issues. 

Universal Human Rights Day Event

December 7 |  5 PM – 6 PM  |  RSVP

This webinar is part of a virtual commemoration of the Universal Human Rights Day. We observe this in honor of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nation on December 10th, 1948.

Speakers from Planned Parenthood and Harlem Pride will discuss how we can advocate for ourselves, seek support and solidarity, and manage stress related to policies that target our identities, communities, and rights. Students will be empowered to learn more about being agents of intersectional change, fighting for civil liberties, and working towards more just and equitable political policies. 

Following the panel discussion will be a Q&A session, along with a guide to finding stress management strategies facilitated by Sherry Adams, our Director of Counseling and Wellness Services. 

CUNY Urban Food Policy Forum: Combining Scholarship and Activism: An Intergenerational Exchange

December 15 |  11 AM – 12:30 PM  |  RSVP

The final CUNY Urban Food Policy Forum of the semester features authors and scholars Marion Nestle and Robert Gottlieb in an intergenerational dialogue with CUNY students about how we can combine food policy scholarship and activism. 

Join us for this invigorating discussion as we draw upon the works and experience of these authors, consider timely issues surrounding food policy, activism, and related topics, and share views and questions that we may have about how to continue advancing food justice.

Spotlight On: Intervene Upstream

Why Public Health?

Intervene Upstream is an online peer-reviewed public health publication run by and geared towards graduate students in public health. They share work written by students on a rolling basis, ranging from journalism, opinion pieces, and scientific articles, to personal narrative essays and literary fiction. 

They are currently looking for answers to the question “Why Public Health?” You can share your story about why you are pursuing a degree in public health using this short survey, and if you’d like to expand upon this, they are also currently accepting longer submissions on their website.

NYS Open Meetings Law

Pursuant to the New York State Open Meetings Law, SPH students and members of the public have the right to attend meetings of the Graduate Student Government Association. We will be holding a meeting on December 20th.

Should you like to attend this meeting and observe, you may do so. Our meetings are currently being held virtually, so if you would like to sit in on one of these meetings send an email to gsga@sphmail.cuny.edu 

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up and coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

GSGA Facebook Group

GSGA Instagram

GSGA Twitter

GSGA Newsletter

November 22, 2022

Hello SPH students,

We hope that you are staying cozy and warm as the holiday season fast approaches and we begin to wrap up the end of the Fall semester. 

Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate. We hope that you are able to enjoy a delicious meal and connect with those you love, whether in person or virtually. 

Please be reminded that due to the holiday, the school is closed from Thursday November 24th through Sunday November 27th. 

Enjoy your time off!

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

GSGA Fall Event: Origami and Sip

Wednesday November 30  |  6:00 PM – 7:30 PM  |  RSVP

Our Origami and Sip event is happening next Wednesday, and we’d love to see you there! We’ll be demonstrating some of our favorite origami crafts, sharing festive mocktail recipes, and exchanging some fun bits of trivia as we enjoy each other’s company and unwind before finals. 

There’s nothing that you need to buy in order to follow along with the origami – you can do so with just a sheet of paper. We look forward to meeting you and extending some lively holiday cheer for the SPH community!

This is a virtual event, and you can RSVP here using your CUNY email address. SPH students who attend will receive Panera Bread gift cards.

SPH Events

Migrant Health in Big Cities: Can Past Health Crises Inform the Future?

Tuesday November 29 |  9 AM – 10:30 AM  |  RSVP

Join us as we bring together researchers and scholars for a discussion about what we have learned about migrant health policy in urban areas after health crises such as COVID-19, and how this knowledge can inform future policy and action. 

Speakers will highlight themes including the impact of exclusion, promising strategies for integration and social connection, and the role of civil society in serving vulnerable migrant groups.

Viewers are actively encouraged to take part in this discussion, interacting with the speakers and asking questions as we explore these themes and see what can be done to address public health crises in the future. 

Upcoming Virtual Office Hours with Dr. Dave Chokshi

Tuesday December 6  |  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM  | RSVP

The Office of Career Services invites you to join CUNY SPH Senior Scholar Dr. Dave Chokshi for virtual hours via Zoom. 

Stop by to speak with Dr. Chokshi, learn about his work, advocacy, and leadership, and discuss your academic and professional pursuits.

Note that you must pre-register beforehand in order to be admitted into the Zoom call. 

Wellness Events

LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group

Thursday December 2  |  6:00 PM – 7:00 PM  |  RSVP

This is the last LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group of the Fall semester hosted by the Office of Counseling and Wellness Services, and we hope you can join us. 

This group is for students interested in discussing sexuality, gender identity and a sense of self, and who are looking for solidarity and camaraderie within the LGBTQIA+ community. A safe and affirming space will be provided for students to speak openly about their experiences, promote their overall well-being, and offer support for each other.

If you have any questions about this support group and what may be planned for next semester, you are welcome to reach out to sherry.adams@sph.cuny.edu. You can also access useful resources from the CUNY LGBTQI+ Hub. 

There’s still time to fill out the Fall 2022 GSGA Student Survey

Thank you to all of the students who have helped the GSGA make your experience better by completing the survey. 

You can still assist us by filling out the Fall 2022 GSGA Student Survey.

Your responses will help us address the needs of our SPH community and best serve students. We greatly value your input and appreciate your insights as to how we can make improvements for the student body. 

A full list of SPH events can be accessed here.

Keep an eye out for updates as more events are added – you can also view up and coming events and public health news on our Twitter and Instagram pages, and join our private student group on Facebook.