Health Policy Advocacy in Today's Climate: Expert Experiences & Guidance brings together leaders in healthcare policy and administration for a panel discussion on how the campus community can actively seek support at the state and national level for public health research and initiatives at this critical juncture in our country. 

Massachusetts state government is heavily invested in health, with an Executive Office of Health and Human Services projected budget of over $33 billion for FY26, a line item that has increased while other sectors of government support have narrowed. With a well-established history of support via health councils, committees, and advisory groups, Massachusetts has often been a leader in prioritizing all communities, especially rural and underserved communities, in their planning. But like all governments, bureaucracy exists and creates challenges. 

Panelists will share their leadership experiences in advocacy, and engage with faculty, staff, students, and the public on why their advocacy efforts are important and how they can get involved. Join us for real-life knowledge imparted not in the classroom but from the passionate advocates who have done the work in Boston, at the State House, for years.

The seminar will be moderated by Kathy Roberts Forde, Associate Dean of Equity & Inclusion and Professor of Journalism, in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Panelists include:

• Elizabeth Chen, Professor of Practice in Health Promotion and Policy and Director of the Online MHA Program
• Christine Schrauf '68BS '75MS, Health Policy Committee Co-Chair for the American Nurses Association Massachusetts and Elaine Marieb College of Nursing alumni board member
• Maryanne Bombaugh, MD, '17MBA, '79MS, Physician at Community Health Center and Past President of the Massachusetts Medical Society

This Dean’s Seminar is co-sponsored by the School of Public Health and Health Sciences, the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. 

Learn more and register here.