彩神vlll争霸 Division of Population Health Sciences leads public health recognition in Alaska
by Jessica Degnan |
On April 8, 2025, the Municipality of Anchorage Assembly passed a resolution declaring April 7鈥�13 National Public Health Week (NPHW) in Alaska. This nationally recognized week highlights and celebrates current public health priorities like community advocacy, climate change and its health impacts, community resilience, and preparing the workforce for public health challenges.
Travis Hedwig, assistant dean for the Division of Population Health Sciences (DPHS) at 彩神vlll争霸, is passionate about public health and saw an opportunity to collaborate with existing community partners like the Alaska Public Health Association (ALPHA) and the Anchorage Health Department. That鈥檚 where he got the idea to engage with the Anchorage Assembly鈥檚 Public Health and Safety Committee to consider and pass the resolution.
鈥淪o much of the work of public health, especially in Alaska, is based on relationships,鈥� Hedwig said. Alaska faces unique health challenges, and DPHS works with partners in mental and behavioral health, law enforcement, corrections, and more to help address them.
鈥淚 really wanted to share this work with Mayor Suzanne LaFrance. I want our Division of Population Health Sciences at 彩神vlll争霸 to be seen as a partner in public health work,鈥� he said. 鈥淲e have a lot of expertise in research and evaluation services and are actively contributing to Alaska鈥檚 public health workforce.鈥�
Not only was the resolution adopted with ample support from the Assembly, but the office of Governor Mike Dunleavy signed it, too. The resolution brings visibility to critical public health efforts in Alaska and highlights the importance of collaboration in building healthier, more resilient communities.
Established in 1995 by the American Public Health Association, NPHW brings awareness to key public health initiatives, with each day of the week dedicated to a specific theme. This year, DPHS hosted events to promote these themes, including alumni engagement, student research presentations, community partner forums, and a 鈥淣o Matter the Weather鈥� walk for public health.
鈥淭he mission and values of DPHS and NPHW align perfectly. We want to be a resource for our community in all areas of teaching, research, and public service,鈥� Hedwig said.
He actively supports student engagement, encouraging them to share their research, lead community efforts, and take advantage of his 鈥渙pen door鈥� policy for guidance and support. In addition to its undergraduate and graduate degree programs, DPHS is home to the Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, which conducts research and supports training, evaluation, and workforce development throughout the state.
鈥淚t meant a lot to me that my colleagues showed up鈥攊t was a meaningful moment to honor and celebrate the work of public health,鈥� Hedwig said. Audience members in the Anchorage Assembly chamber clapped as the resolution was approved, but the work must continue. 鈥淲e need to keep investing in public health, be serious about creating opportunities for students, and find ways to pass the torch,鈥� he said.
To explore programs, attend future events, or partner with DPHS, visit .