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.

GSGA Newsletter

November 8, 2022

Hello SPH students,

Today is Election Day! This is your last chance to vote for the change you want to see. Polling places across New York State are open until 9 PM tonight.

• New York City residents can locate their polling site here. 
  • Make sure to check your ballot! There are four ballot proposals, three of which are unique to NYC. 

• Residents of New York State can track their absentee ballot and locate their polling site here.
  • Make sure to check your ballot! There is one ballot proposal in NYS. 

• If you live in another state, you can find your polling place and check how late it is open here.
  • Your location may have ballot proposals: you can access voter guides and more information here. 

Happy voting,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

Save the Date! GSGA Fall Event: Origami and Sip

Wednesday November 30 | 6 PM – 7:30 PM

Save the date for our GSGA fall event!

Please join us as we demonstrate some of our favorite origami crafts and share recipes for yummy festive drinks that can help make your holiday season pop. 

This is a great way to pause, unwind, and have some fun before finals! There’s nothing that you need to buy – you can follow along with just a sheet of paper.

More details will be provided soon. Be sure to keep checking your email for new updates.

SPH Events

Welcome to Harlem Strong

Wednesday November 16 |  10 AM – 11:30 AM  |  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.

Join us to learn more about Harlem Strong, meet its leaders, hear about their next steps and launch date, and find out how you can get involved.

CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute Forum: Turning ideas into action after the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health

Thursday November 17 |  11 AM – 12:30 PM  |  RSVP

How can we translate into action some of the core ideas and solutions put forward at the 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health?

Guest speakers will explore this question through the lens of three central food policy goals: making free school meals available to all, ending college food insecurity, and reducing corporate influences on community food environments (including reducing predatory marketing of unhealthy food and beverages to young people).

Wellness Events

LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group

Thursday November 10  |  6:00 PM – 7:00 PM  |  RSVP

The Office of Counseling and Wellness Services is holding an LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group every Thursday at 6 PM (except November 24th). 

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.

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

October 27, 2022

Hello SPH Students,

We hope that you are having a lovely October and making the most out of these brisk autumn days. Believe it or not, we are now at the halfway point of the semester! Kudos for your hard work and accomplishments, and for making it thus far.

There are now only 12 days left until Election Day (Tuesday November 8th). Early voting in New York City is from Saturday October 29th through Sunday November 6th, and you can find your poll site here. If you’re located in another state, you can find your polling place by state here. This is your chance to vote for the change you want to see. 

Happy Halloween! 

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

Fall 2022 GSGA Student Survey

We want to make your experience at SPH better!

Please help us by responding to the Fall 2022 GSGA Student Survey.

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

GSGA Awards – Deadline November 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 2022 awards include: 

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

All applications must be received by November 1st, 2022 at 11:59 PM.

Please see the GSGA website for the budget form and applications. 

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

SPH Events

National Stress Awareness Day

Wednesday November 2  |  3:00 PM – 4:00 PM  |  RSVP

How can you more effectively manage and reduce stress, prioritize self-care, and engage in healthy activities? What does well-being and mental health mean to you? Engage in a discussion with your peers and learn more about resources that can help provide you with support. 

A demo will be provided by Lee Swain of Togetherall, a safe, anonymous, online peer community monitored by licensed and registered mental health practitioners where you can connect with others, share your thoughts, and be heard. Togetherall has partnered with CUNY to provide 24/7 access to all CUNY students, and you can sign up at any time. 

A stress reduction workshop will also be offered. Details TBA.

Student Office Hours with Dr. Dave Chokshi

Tuesday November 1  |  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM  | On Campus

The Office of Career Services invites you to join CUNY SPH Senior Scholar Dr. Dave Chokshi for in-person office hours. Stop by to meet Dr. Chokshi, learn about his work, advocacy, and leadership, and discuss your academic and professional pursuits.

In order to attend, please fill out this Google form and carefully review the confirmation message.  

Wellness Events

LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group

Thursday October 27  |  6:00 PM – 7:00 PM  |  RSVP

The Office of Counseling and Wellness Services is holding an LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group every Thursday at 6 PM (except November 24th). 

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.

Healthy Boundaries Setting Webinar

Wednesday, November 2  |  6:00 PM – 7:00 PM  | RSVP

What can you do to set healthy boundaries? This webinar will provide students with the tools to set healthy boundaries, both with themselves and with others. Join in to discuss self-care decisions, promote assertive communication, and explore strategies for managing complicated interpersonal dynamics.

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

October 11, 2022

Hello SPH students,

We hope that you are having an enjoyable Fall 2022 semester and getting into the swing of things while staying nice and warm! 

We are pleased to introduce your 2022-2023 Graduate Student Government Association leaders. While some of us are returning, and others are new, all of us are tremendously proud to represent the CUNY SPH student body. You can learn more about each of us here.

GSGA Leadership

President: Doris Chiu

Vice-President: Zaire Ali

Treasurer: Natalie Echavarria

Communications Officer: Tess E. Baldwin

Masters Senators: Gregory Klimaytis, Cara Kraus-Perrotta

Doctoral Senators: Amena El-Harakeh and Shari Jardine

Advanced Certificate Senator: TBD

If you are an Advanced Certificate student interested in serving, please send an email to us at GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

Sincerely,

Your 2022-2023 GSGA

CUNY Votes

Election Day 2022 is less than a month away, and the deadline to register to vote is this week on Friday October 14th!

New York State Voter Registration Form

A personalized voter registration form is available through your CUNYFirst account. You can mail it yourself – you don’t even need a stamp!

You can also pick up a voter registration form on campus or at campus events like the Student Resource Fair. 

Register to Vote Online (with a NYS DMV-issued ID)

Absentee Voting Info

Check your Voter Registration status

CUNY How-To Guide for Voting

Find your Poll Site (NYC)

Find your Poll Site and Voter Registration (New York State)

Who is Eligible to Vote? (State regulations) 

GSGA Awards

The GSGA offers several awards for students. These awards are designed to support students with the costs of community service events, conferences, workshops, and publications, as well as professional growth and development opportunities that students may want to pursue. 

The 2022 awards include: 

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

All applications must be received by November 1st, 2022 at 11:59 PM.

Please see the GSGA website for the budget form and applications. 

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

Student Resource Fair: Spotlight on Student Life

Tuesday October 11  |  5:00 PM – 8:00 PM  |  7th Floor Lobby

Tuesday October 11  |  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM  |  Virtual drop-in

Stop by the 7th Floor Lobby (outside Room 708) or connect with us virtually to learn more about our student clubs and the GSGA, meet your fellow classmates, and hear about how you can get the most out of student life at SPH. 

Light snacks, gift bags, and other fun surprises will be available during our on-campus tabling events and all online participants will receive Panera Bread gift certificates. 

Wellness Events

LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group

Thursday, October 13  |  6:00 PM – 7:00 PM  |  RSVP

The Office of Counseling and Wellness Services is holding an LGBTQIA+ Student Support Group every Thursday at 6 PM (except November 24th). 

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.

Healthy Boundaries Setting Webinar

Wednesday, October 12  |  6:00 PM – 7:00 PM  | RSVP

What can you do to set healthy boundaries? This webinar will provide students with the tools to set healthy boundaries, both with themselves and with others. Join in to discuss self-care decisions, promote assertive communication, and explore strategies for managing complicated interpersonal dynamics.

Sessions will be held every Wednesday at 6 PM through November 2nd.

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

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GSGA Newsletter

June 10, 2022

Hello SPH students,

Happy Friday and welcome to the last issue of the GSGA newsletter for the 2021-2022 academic year!

We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the CUNY SPH Class of 2022. We are proud of all of you for reaching this milestone and completing your graduate degree! This is a great accomplishment based on years of hard work and dedication! Special congratulations to the graduates among GSGA 2021-2022 Officers: Natalia Surujnath (Masters Senator), Sherline Altidor (Masters Senator), Anthony Maltese (Past President), and Kevin Chin (Past Treasurer). We wish all graduates the best and we look forward to hearing about your future endeavors. We also hope you will join the Alumni Network!

We would also like to share the results from the recent election of student representatives to the GSGA, the Governance Council (GC) and Committees. Vacant positions on the GSGA will be filled in accordance with the GSGA Constitution/By-Laws available here. Vacant positions on the GC will be filled in accordance with the GC Governance Plan/By-Laws available here.

Graduate Student Government Association
President – Doris Chiu
Vice-President – Zaire Ali
Treasurer – TBD
Masters Senators – Greg Klimaytis, TBD (3)
Doctoral Senators – Amena El-Harakeh, Shari Jardine
Advanced Certificate Senator -TBD
USS Delegate/Alternate – TBD (2)

Governance Council
Ex Officio – Doris Chiu
CHSS Rep. – Amanda Pierz
EOGHS Rep. – Greg Klimaytis
EPI/BIO Rep. – Christina Samurkas
HPAM Rep. – TBD
Master’s Program Rep. – Ariani Alemzadeh
Doctoral Progam Rep. – Amena El-Harakeh
Alternates – TBD (2)

Committee for Equity & Inclusion
Ariani Alemzadeh
Adriana Padilla

Faculty Student Disciplinary Committee
Zaire Ali
Greg Klimaytis

Congratulations to all who were elected and thanks to all the candidates for your willingness to serve our school community!

Sincerely,
GSGA 2021-2022

Upcoming SPH Events

For a complete listing of all SPH events for the semester, please visit the CUNY SPH Events page.

Virtual Lavender Graduation

Wednesday, June 22  |  6:00pm to 7:00pm  | RSVP

Other Upcoming Events

Film Screening: Suppressed and Sabotaged: The Fight to Vote

Friday, June 17  |  6:00pm to 7:00pm  | RSVP

The Graduate Student Government Association and the Office of Student Affairs is hosting this special film screening as the New York State primary season gets underway. Suppressed and Sabotaged: The Fight to Vote shines light on the dark corners of our country’s voting processes; including the increase of vote-restricting laws passing through legislation prior to, during, and after the 2020 election cycle.

All attendees will receive a Panera Bread gift card.  Be sure to register using your SPH or CUNY email. 

And, if you are eligible and registered in NYS, don’t forget to vote!! (see details immediately below).

The June 28 primary election will be for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller, State Assembly and Judicial Seats. CUNY Votes is a comprehensive, non-partisan initiative whose mission is to promote student voter registration, voter participation and voter awareness through campus based activities, external partnerships and University-wide campaigns. More details can be accessed here.  

• Early Voting: June 18-26, 2022
• Primary Election: June 28, 2022

GSGA Past Events

Stressed? Give Mindfulness Meditation a Try

On May 3^rd 2022, the GSGA held an introduction to mindfulness meditation session led by Kell Julliard, who is a mindfulness meditation instructor certified by the International Mindfulness Teachers Association. In case you missed the session, you can check the recording here.

Student Resources

Student SNAP Pandemic-Eligibility Extended

Summer can be a difficult time for many students with less access to campus resources and free meals through campus events. The SNAP Pandemic Expansion was extended for 90 days and all CUNY students are encouraged to apply before July 15^th. Any CUNY student can text FOOD to (855) 230-6746 or fill out a quick form at swipehunger.org/cunysnn, and a student Navigator will be in touch shortly.

Career Services and Events

To view the SPH Career Services live calendar, click here. To schedule a 1:1 Career Coaching appointment with the Office of Career Services, book an appointment online now!

Job Opportunity Spotlight

1. Looking for a part time role at CUNY SPH? The Nutrition and Dietetic Internship & Office of Experiential Learning departments are looking to fill a 20 hour a week role as the Experiential, Non-Credit, and Distance Learning Program Assistant!

2. CUNY Career Launch is seeking intern supervisors who will work 30 hours per week to oversee 10 undergraduate interns in the execution of their core work and build professional skills. Supervisors will start in late June and work until August 19. Supervisors will be employees of the Research Foundation of CUNY.

To read more and apply to these roles, see the listings in the Job Postings.

Student Wellness Support Services and Events

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

 GSGA Facebook Group

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GSGA Newsletter

April 28, 2022

Hello SPH students,

Happy Thursday and welcome to this issue of the GSGA newsletter. We hope you had a safe, relaxing, and rejuvenating spring break!

In this issue of the newsletter, we share details about our upcoming GSGA event on mindfulness meditation. We hope you are as excited as we are for this event! The event will be led by Kell Julliard on Tuesday, May 3, at 5 p.m. ET via Zoom. Make sure to check out the details and reserve your spot! Additional resources on mindfulness meditation will also be shared with participants!

We would also like to share with you that the Call for Nominations for the upcoming SPH student elections has been extended through Thursday, April 28 at midnight (11:59pm EST). Thank you to all who have submitted their nominations! The CUNY SPH and GSGA are still seeking nominations for student representatives to serve as Masters and Certificate Senators on the GSGA, and as Departmental Representatives and Degree Program Representatives on the CUNY SPH Governance Council (GC) for the 2022-2023 academic year. Please check your SPH email for the Call for Nominations and be sure to submit all nominations by today Thursday, April 28 at midnight (11:59 pm EST). The GSGA will postpone the Candidates’ Forum until next week. Stay tuned for details!

Sincerely,
GSGA 2021-2022

GSGA and SPH Clubs Events

Stressed? Give Mindfulness Meditation a Try

Tuesday, May 3 | 5:00pm to 6:00pm | RSVP

Graduate school is hard, but there is an effective, enjoyable way to achieve calm: mindfulness meditation. Join the GSGA for an introduction to mindfulness meditation to discover how it works and perhaps set yourself on a path toward improved awareness, sharpened mental focus and concentration, and less stress. Mindfulness is shown to rewire the brain for the better, so join this special session to see what all the fuss is about.

The session will be led by Kell Julliard. Certified by the International Mindfulness Teachers Association, Kell has taught mindfulness skills to health professionals and the public since 2010. Kell he teaches mindfulness for Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and is trained as a facilitator for the Eat Right Now mindful eating program. He holds a master’s degree in Expressive Therapy from the University of Louisville and served as a psychotherapist in the chemical dependency field. Formerly, he was director of clinical research at the Family Health Centers at NYU Langone in Brooklyn, where he also taught mindfulness skills to employees. For over two decades, he mentored medical and dental residents and faculty in research methods and evidence-based medicine.

Upcoming SPH Events

For a complete listing of all SPH events for the semester, please visit the CUNY SPH Events page.

Reaching policymakers in MHPSS evidence translation and service integration

Tuesday, May 3  |  8:00am to 9:00am  | RSVP

Other Upcoming Events

CSAAH’s Tenth Biennial Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Health Conference.

Tuesday & Wednesday, June 7 and 8

Student Resources

Career Services and Events

Career Services Workshop: Breaking Into the Public Health Field
Tuesday, May 10  |  12pm – 1pm  |  Register 

New to the field of public health? From the Office Career Services, this virtual workshop will showcase the many careers that public health graduates from across SPH’s academic concentrations can break into. Participants will learn about key resources available to explore careers in public health as well as strategies to launch a successful job/internship search. Students and recent alumni welcome.

Student Emergency Fund

CUNY SPH is committed to helping students who are facing financial hardship. Students who are experiencing a short-term financial emergency for any reason may apply for a quick-response grant from the Student Emergency Fund by clicking here.

Student Wellness Support Services and Events

GSGA@sphmail.cuny.edu

 GSGA Facebook Group

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 GSGA Twitter