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2024 North Carolina Global Health Conference Agenda Tuesday, October 22, 2024 McKimmon Center 1101 Gorman St, Raleigh, NC 27606 Click Here to View a Map of the McKimmon Center! See our full list of speakers here! Conference Speakers PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A DRAFT AGENDA, SUBJECT TO CHANGE UP UNTIL CONFERENCE DATE 8:15 - 9:00 9:00 - 9:15 Room 2 Registration, Poster Presentations, & Exhibit Hall Connect with Exhibitors and hear poster presentations from 40 researchers! As soon as you sign in, swing through Room 1D to visit Exhibiting Organizations and then cross the hall to Room 2 (the main conference room) to engage with presenting researchers! See all Posters Welcome & Opening Remarks Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, MPH, Executive Director, NCGHA 9:15 - 10:00 Room 2 Fireside Chat: North Carolina's Place in the World Secretary Kody Kinsley, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service With Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, MPH, Executive Direcor, NCGHA 10:00 - 10:45 Room 2 Keynote Speaker Peter Kilmarx, MD, Deputy Director, Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health (NIH) With an Introduction by Tim Mastro, MD, FACP, DTM&H, Principal, Mastro Global, LLC., & Chair, Board of Directors, NCGHA 15-Min Transition Don’t forget to visit the all-day Exhibit Hall in Room 1D! CONCURRENT SESSIONS - ROUND 1 11:00 - 12:00 Room 2 Countering Misinformation on the Journey to Earning Trust Hear from the experts who know a thing or two about how misinformation impacts our health, and what we can do to actively rebuild and gain trust in communities. Learn about climate messaging, vaccine hesitancy, and trust in science all in one dynamic conversation. Kathie Dello, PhD, State Climatologist of North Carolina, Director of the North Carolina State Climate Office Brian Southwell, PhD, MA, Distinguished Fellow &Lead Scientist for Public Understanding of Science, RTI International Erin Fry Sosne , MPH, Director of Strategy, Department of Public Health, NCDHHS Sachiko Ozawa, PhD, MHS , Associate Professor, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy Room 1C Global to America's Local: Learning from Global Health Models to Address American Challenges (Roundtable Discussions) Be inspired by work that was developed elsewhere and successfully adapted to the American context. Move between three tables to take part in interactive discussions on reproductive freedom, AI and cancer treatment, and perinatal care from experts who understand what it takes to translate models across geographical contexts. Pearl Friedberg , Senior Program Director, Ipas Jenny Jensen, MSN, MPH, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, Family Connects International Lauren Bevington, LCSW, MBA, Implementation Consultant, BroadReach Group Moderated by Kristen Sullivan, PhD, MSW, MBA, Director of Undergraduate Programs, Global One Health Academy, NCSU Room 7 North Carolina Leadership for Global Impact Learn from the leaders in North Carolina health whose work you really should know about. From vaccine equity to rehabilitation to workforce development, these NC experts are leading the way! Michelle Ries, MPH, President & CEO, North Carolina Institute of Medicine Peter Cassidy, MBA, FACHE, Vice President, Atrium Health Brandon Young, PhD, Senior Medical Science Liaison, Seqirus Moderated by Solomon Ayehu, MD, MSc, MIDP, Duke Global Health Institute & Duke Sanford School of Public Policy, MIDP '24 Transition Don’t forget to visit the all-day Exhibit Hall in Room 1D! 12:00 - 1:00 Room 2 Lunch, Poster Presentations, & Exhibit Hall Pick up boxed lunch in Room 1D (Exhibit Hall) 1:00 - 1:10 Room 2 Performance Taal Harmony School of Dance 1:10 - 2:15 Room 2 Plenary Panel: Opportunities to Bridge North Carolina with the World Suzanne Maman, PhD, Associate Dean for Global Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Lindsey Bickers Block, MPH, Director of Health Education & Community Transformation, Durham County Department of Public Health Francis Lajara de los Reyes III, PhD, MS, Glenn E. & Phyllis J. Futrell Distinguished Professor, University Faculty Scholar, Dept. of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, NC State University Liz Mallas Law, MPA, MS, MA, Director, FOCUS Regional Lead, NC, SC, AR, Gilead Sciences Moderated by Chris Beyrer, MD, MPH, Director, Duke Global Health Institute 15-Min Transition Don’t forget to visit the all-day Exhibit Hall in Room 1D! CONCURRENT SESSIONS - ROUND 2 2:30 - 3:30 Room 2 Conflict to Community: The Continuum of Healthcare Provision from Displacement to Resettlement Hear from the experts as they track healthcare provision from crisis through displacement to resettlement right here in North Carolina. Coy Isaacs, Senior Director, Crisis Response and Resilience, FHI 360 Jennifer Toller Erausquin, PhD , Associate Professor, Public Health Education, UNC Greensboro Tra Tran, MS, Research Coordinator, Refugee Community Partnerships Moderated by Cristina España , Deputy Director of the Office of Public Engagement, Office of NC Governor Cooper Room 1C New Models of Leadership for Tomorrow's Global Health (Roundtable Discussions) Join this interactive session to contribute your voice to an exploration of how we can transform our models of leadership and practice to align with our evolving global health landscape. Katherine Tur ner, MPH, President & Founder, Global Citizen LLC; Adjunct Professor, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health LaHoma Smith Romocki, PhD, MPH, Professor & Department Chair, Public Health Education, North Carolina Central University Karah Pedersen, MPH, Deputy Director of Business Development , IntraHealth International Room 7 Addressing Global Health Priorities in North Carolina Communities What global health threats are disproportionately affecting marginalized communities here in NC? Join this interdisciplinary conversation to hear more about rural healthcare, vector borne illnesses, and environmental exposures - three critical topics here and everywhere! Mercedes Bravo, PhD , Assistant Research Professor of Global Health & Associate Director for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Duke Global Health Institute Ross Boyce, MD, MSc, Assistant Professor of Medicine, UNC School of Medicine Nick Galvez, MBA, CCMA Rural Hospital Program Manager, NC Department of Health and Human Services Moderated by Zainab Alidina, PhD, MPH, Data and Evaluation Manager, The Center for Child & Family Health 10-Min Transition Don’t forget to visit the all-day Exhibit Hall in Room 1D! 3:40 - 4:00 Room 2 Closing Call to Action Congresswoman Deborah Ross, United States Representative for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District 4:00 + Room 2 Ice Cream Social Thank You to Our 2024 Conference Sponsors! Gold Level Sponsors Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsors Sustaining Sponsors Mastro Global, LLC

2023 North Carolina Global Health Conference Agenda November 1, 2023 McKimmon Center 1101 Gorman St, Raleigh, NC 27606 Click Here to View a Map of the McKimmon Center! Don’t forget to visit the all-day Exhibit Hall in Room 1D! 8:15 - 9:00 CHECK-IN, NETWORKING & LIVE MUSIC Enjoy a live musical performance from Diali Cissokho and Will Ridenour while you check-in! Then, visit Susan Lankford, Director of Science and Technology Development at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, at a table past check-in to learn more about professional networking! 9:00 - 9:10 Room 2 WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS Tim Mastro , NCGHA Board Chair; Senior Science Advisor, FHI 360 9:10 - 9:20 Room 2 OPENING REMARKS: CONGRESSWOMAN DEBORAH ROSS C ongresswoman Deborah Ross , United States Representative for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District 9:20 - 10:15 Room 2 PLENARY PANEL: WHAT IT MEANS TO HAVE RESILIENCE IN THE GLOBAL HEALTH ECOSYSTEM Gwen Collman , Director, Office of Scientific Coordination, Planning and Evaluation (SCOPE), NIEHS Sid Thak ur , Executive Director of Global One Health Academy; Professor of Molecular Epidemiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine at NC State Gavin Yamey , Associate Director for Policy, Duke Global Health Institute; Director, Center for Policy Impact in Global Health Rachel Clad , Director of Partnerships and Alliances, BroadReach Group; Moderator BREAK/TRANSITION CONCURRENT SESSIONS - ROUND 1 10:30 - 11:20 Room 2 Overcoming Structural Inequalities in the Global Health Workforce Roy Zwahlen , Chief Strategy Officer, Eshelman Institute for Innovation; Associate Dean, Strategic Partnerships & Risk Management, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy Janet Muriuki , Senior Director of Health Workforce Development, IntraHealth International Gerald Bloomfield , Associate Director for Research, Duke Global Health Institute; Associate Professor with Tenure, Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine Danny Hamrick , Director of Admissions, Master of International Development Policy (MIDP) Program, Duke University Center for International Development; Moderator Room 6 Mental Health in Global Health: Roundtable Discussions Luke Smith , Executive Director, El Futuro Emma Harver , Deputy Director of Communications & Development (United States), CFK Africa Eddah Ogogo , Clinical Health Services Lead, CFK Africa Victrine Oluoch , Psychological Counselor, CFK Africa Brandon Knettel , Associate Director, Duke Global Mental Health Program Ismail Amiri Shekibula , Graduate Student, Duke University Kathy Walmer , Executive Director, Family Health Ministries; Moderator Emma Hughes , BS Candidate, Human Biology & Science, NC State University; Moderator Room 5 Adapting Global Health to Meet a Changing Climate Reality Tracy Mitchell , Director of Resilience and Climate Adaptation, RTI International Elizabeth McCormick , Assistant Professor, UNC Charlotte; PhD Candidate, NC State University Zachary Witkin , Senior Growth & Partnerships Manager, YLabs Karen Setty , Senior Manager, Research Translation, The Aquaya Institute; Moderator BREAK/TRANSITION CONCURRENT SESSIONS - ROUND 2 11:30 - 12:20 Room 2 Deepening Community Relationships Avindra Mandwal , Senior Program Manager, IPAS Casey Bishopp , Technical Officer II, Demand Generation & Marketing, FHI 360 Daphne de Souza Lima Sorensen , CEO, MiracleFeet Suzanne Maman , Associate Dean for Global Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health ; Moderator Room 6 Public Health & the People: The Engagement of Users in Systems and Solutions Margaret D. Louey , PhD PMP, Senior Technical Manager, Global Health Sciences, Clinton Health Access Initiative Paul L. Domanico , PhD, Senior Director of Global Health Sciences, Clinton Health Access Initiative Jasmine Benner , Graduate Student Intern, RTI International; MPH Candidate, Michigan State University Felicia A. Browne , Senior Research Social Epidemiologist, RTI International Solo mon Ayehu , MD, MSc, Master of Internatio nal Development Policy (MIDP) Candidate, MIDP Fellow, Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University Vandana Shah , Vice President, Health Systems Strengthening, Global Health Advocacy Incubator; Host Room 5 5-Minute Lightning Talks: Global Health at a Glance Jessica Parzygnat , PhD Candidate, NC State University Gayoung Lee , MPH Candidate in Applied Epidemiology, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Benjamin Mukumbya , Research Technician, Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology Lauren Enochs, UNC Summer Fellow, IntraHealth International; MPH Candidate MCFH, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Rachel Couper , Senior Global Health Specialist, DAI Hannah Dewey , PhD Candidate in Fiber & Polymer Science, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University; Host Lihan Chen , Graduate Student, Department of Chemistry, NC State University; Host 12:30 - 1:30 1:30 - 2:20 Room 2 Room 2 BREAK/TRANSITION LUNCH, NETWORKING & EXHIBIT HALL KEYNOTE SPEAKER: ANGELI ACHREKAR, UNAIDS Angeli Achrekar , Deputy Executive Director for the Programme Branch, UNAIDS; Assistant Secretary-General, United Nations BREAK/TRANSITION CONCURRENT SESSIONS - ROUND 3 2:30 - 3:15 Room 2 Expanding Products & Product Development in New Markets Dhiren Thakker , Founding President & CEO, MedAditus Paul L. Domanico , Senior Director of Global Health Sciences, Clinton Health Access Initiative Audrey Fratus , Senior Technical Officer, Product Development & Introduction, FHI 360; MPH Candidate, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Laneta Dorflinger , Distinguished Scientist & Director, Product Development and Introduction, FHI 360 ; Moderator Room 6 TechTalks: Interactive Sessions on Technology & its Role in Global Health Erika Samoff , HIV/STD Surveillance Manager, North Carolina Division of Public Health Michael Levy , CEO, Digital Health Institute for Transformation (DHIT) Brittany Barreto , Founder & Chief innovation Officer, FemHealth Insights; Host, FemTech Focus Podcast; Forbes Contributor Nancy Warren , Program Manager, RTI; Moderator Room 5 Local is Global: Bringing Global Health Back to North Carolina Nicolle Miller , Interim Director and a Senior Project Lead for Public Sector & Systems on the North Carolina team; Partners In Health – United States Eve Puffer , Director, Duke Global Mental Health Program, Duke Global Health Institute; Associate Professor, Psychology & Neuroscience and Global Health, Duke University Julie Swann , A. Doug Allison Distinguished Professor, College of Engineering, NC State University; Head of the Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, College of Engineering, NC State University Michelle Hindin , Director, Global Health & Population Research, FHI 360; Moderator 3:20 - 3:30 Room 2 TRANSITION CLOSING & CALL TO ACTION: CHRISTIAN PITTER Christian Pitter , MD, MPH, Director of Global Health and Population, FHI 360 3:30 - 4:00 Room 2 ICE CREAM SOCIAL Don’t forget to visit the all-day Exhibit Hall in Room 1D! Thank you to our 2023 Conference Sponsors!

< Back Carrboro Council Passes Resolution In Solidarity With USAID Employees, Urges Restart of Federal Aid Brighton McConnell Mar 6, 2025 NCGHA and Member Representatives Attended Carrboro Council Meeting to Support the Passing of a Resolution in Support of North Carolina Global Health Businesses and Employees Please follow the below link to read the full story: https://chapelboro.com/news/local-government/carrboro-council-passes-resolution-in-solidarity-with-usaid-employees-urges-restart-of-federal-aid Previous Next

The NCGHA 2026 Spring Event The Global Health Workforce: An Economic Imperative Mon, April 20 | 9 am - 12 pm | Durham, NC After a year of instability for the global health workforce, the need to make a clear economic case for robust investments in its stability has never been greater. This special Spring Event examined how strategic investments in the global health workforce drive economic resilience. Recap: A Morning of Health, Economics, and Action On Monday, April 20, 2026, the North Carolina Global Health Alliance (NCGHA) convened 60 global health leaders from across North Carolina at FHI 360's headquarters in Durham to bridge a critical gap in our state's dialogue: the intersection of global health and economic development Connecting the Global to the Local Dr. Jerry Bloomfield, the NCGHA’s new Board Chair, kicked off the event by defining the Alliance’s unique role. He described North Carolina not just as a participant in global health, but as a leader. The Alliance serves as the glue connecting our world-class research institutions and thriving businesses to something larger than any one organization could achieve alone. Following Dr. Bloomfield, NCGHA Executive Director, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, addressed the question, why does North Carolina need its own global health alliance? The answer lies in economic development. With over 900 organizations reaching 175 countries, this sector brings $32 billion in value to our state annually, an impact comparable to the construction industry that we see on our daily commutes. The Human Infrastructure Karah Pedersen then took the stage to shift our focus to the frontline. She spoke passionately about the people who make health systems function. Her message was clear: the global health workforce is not just a budget line item, it is the essential infrastructure of a functioning society. Without paid, safe, and supported workers, even the most advanced medical technology fails to reach those in need. Fireside Chat: Healthy Populations as Economic Engines After a brief networking break, we welcomed Dr. Mandy Cohen of Manatt Health and Dr. Tessie San Martin of FHI 360 for a two-chapter conversation that served as the heart of the event. Chapter One: Health as Infrastructure. The speakers discussed how a healthy population is the bedrock of economic productivity. Dr. San Martin noted that under-investment in health leads to massive productivity losses, while Dr. Cohen emphasized that the global health sector is a major employer within our own state borders. Chapter Two: The Workforce as an Engine. The discussion turned toward the workforce itself. We explored how the 56,000 global health jobs in North Carolina create a ripple effect, supporting local businesses and fueling innovation. The audience engaged deeply here, asking how we can better translate health outcomes into economic data that policymakers can't ignore, and what individual impacted workers can do to continue careers of impact. Dr. San Martin emphasized that health is a long-term investment that drives productivity. She noted that global growth results in demand for U.S. products, meaning we are deeply invested in the health of the rest of the world for our own prosperity. Dr. Cohen spoke on the importance of trust and communication. She highlighted that for the public to value health as an "end" in itself, we must be better translators of our work, moving from "wonky" policy talk to human-centered stories. The View from Raleigh To bring the conversation home, Marina Pieretti from the NCDHHS Division of Public Health gave a presentation on workforce development efforts right here in NC. She showcased how the state is working to bridge the gap between global expertise and local public health needs, ensuring that the skills learned abroad are being applied to keep North Carolinians safe. What's Next? At the NCGHA, we are committed to ensuring North Carolina remains a place where this talent is valued, utilized, and integrated into our economic vision. We cannot afford to lose the very people who keep our state and the world running. The conversations shared in this session were more than just reflections, they are the foundation for the NCGHA's state-level advocacy strategy over the coming year. As we look to the future, our focus is clear: we must protect, retain, and grow the life-saving talent that calls North Carolina home. Our current priorities include: Protecting our Current Workforce: The stories we have heard from our community over the last year, and the recent reports of skilled professionals facing career uncertainty, underscore the fragility of our sector's current infrastructure. The NCGHA is committed to being a vocal champion at the state level to ensure that these workers are recognized as essential economic contributors. We are working to ensure that when global shifts occur, our local workforce has the support and visibility needed to pivot and remain in the spaces where their expertise is most effective. Building a Pipeline for the Future: North Carolina's universities are graduating some of the brightest young minds in global health, but a degree is only the first step. To keep this talent from leaving our state, we need to better bridge the gap between graduation and long-term career placement. Our goal is to create an ecosystem where North Carolina isn't just a place to study global health, but the premier destination to build a career in it. Meet the Speakers Mandy Cohen, MD, MPH National Advisor, Manatt Health; Former Director, CDC; Former Secretary, NC Department of Health and Human Services Tessie San Martin, PhD, MPA CEO, FHI 360 Gerald Bloomfield, MD, MPH Associate Director for Research, Duke Global Health Institute; Associate Professor with Tenure of Medicine and Global Health, Duke University Board Chair, NCGHA Karah Pedersen, MPH Steering Committee, Frontline Health Workers Coalition; Head of Global Health Partnerships, Global Communities Marina Pieretti, MPH Director of Public Health Workforce Development, Division of Public Health, NC Department of Health and Human Services Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, MPH Executive Director, North Carolina Global Health Alliance Thank you to our Sponsors! Sponsor Host Agenda 9:00 am - 9:30 am Registration & Networking with light refreshments 9:30 am - 9:40 am Welcome, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm 9:40 am - 9:50 am Opening Remarks, Dr. Jerry Bloomfield 9:50 am - 10:10 am Centering Frontline Health Workers, Karah Pedersen 10:10 am - 10:30 am The Economic Return of Global Health in North Carolina, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm 10:30 am - 11:40 pm Fireside Chat with Dr. Mandy Cohen & Dr. Tessie San Martin, Moderated by Brianna Clarke-Schwelm Chapter 1: Healthy Populations as Economic Infrastructure Chapter 2: Health Workforce as an Economic Engine 11:40 am - 12:00 pm Closing Remarks, Marina Pieretti 12:30 pm + Please join us for an informal lunch gathering across the street at the American Tobacco Campus. Find us in the covered courtyard area at the tables in front of Boricua Soul (705 Willard St).

North Carolina Global Health Alliance Career Center Click below to find job opportunities from our member organizations! Want to highlight a job in our newsletter or social media? Send it to executivedirector@ncglobalhealth.org to be featured. Not a member of the NCGHA? Email us to find out how you can get your jobs featured. Event Sponsor Mission: To make North Carolina the healthiest state in the nation. Mission: FHI 360 advances equity, health and well-being through data-driven, locally led solutions – so that humanity thrives. Mission: To improve public health and economic prosperity in informal settlements by partnering with communities to strengthen systems, reduce inequalities, and improve access to quality health care, education, and economic opportunities. Mission: To improve the performance of health workers and strengthen the systems in which they work. Mission: To promote mutual understanding between the people of North Carolina’s Triangle region and the international community through education, cultural exchange, arts, and the celebration of achievements. Mission: To achieve health equity for vulnerable groups and individuals around the world through research, education and partnership. Mission: To harness health technology and innovation that empowers human action. Mission: To serve as a center for research, scholarship, and creativity and to teach a diverse community of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students to become the next generation of leaders. Mission: As a research-extensive land-grant university, North Carolina State University is dedicated to excellent teaching, the creation and application of knowledge, and engagement with public and private partners. Mission: To end health inequities through transformative excellence in education, clinical practice, and nursing science. Mission: To advance global health equity by promoting and facilitating collaboration to drive impactful innovation. Mission: To partner with underserved communities to make measurable and sustainable improvements in their health and wellbeing. Mission: To build resilient abortion and contraceptive ecosystems using a comprehensive approach across sectors, institutions, and communities. Mission: To build human capacity and technical capability for creating better access to medicine in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mission: Increases access to proper treatment for children born with clubfoot in low- and middle-income countries through partnerships with local healthcare providers. Mission: To discover how the environment affects people in order to promote healthier lives. Mission: To provide long-term economic and societal benefits to NC by supporting biotechnology research, business, education, and strategic policy statewide. Mission: To design technologies that amplify youth power, agency, and opportunity. Thank you to our sponsor.

North Carolina Global Health Alliance's 2025 event - Global Health in Transition. Sponsored by RTI International, Advocate Health, and Mastro Global, LLC; and Hosted by The North Carolina Biotechnology Center. Panelists Panel Discussion - The Long View: Leading for Global Health's Next Chapter M. Rashad Massoud, MD, MPH, FACP Head, Global Health USA, IQVIA Dr. M. Rashad Massoud is Head of Global Health, USA at IQVIA. A physician executive and global health leader, he is internationally recognized for advancing healthcare quality, health systems strengthening, and equity. Dr. Massoud has managed large-scale programs in more than 100 countries, overseeing multimillion-dollar portfolios and achieving measurable health improvements worldwide. He teaches healthcare improvement at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. In voluntary capacities, he serves as: Chair, International Advisory Board, Ministry of Health, Palestine; Board of Directors, Disaster Health Institute; Executive Committee, ISQua Academy; Board of Directors, Harvard Alumni Association; President Emeritus, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Alumni Association; Advisory Board, World Health Organization Global Report on Quality & Safety. Panel Discussion - The Long View: Leading for Global Health's Next Chapter Paul Weisenfeld, JD Executive Advisor, RTI International Paul Weisenfeld is the Executive Advisor at RTI International, a global research institute and leading international development organization. For the past 10 years, he has led RTI’s international development practice, which is dedicated to improving the human condition through multi-sectoral, inclusive solutions that lead to sustainable economic growth, climate resilience, improved food security, quality education and healthcare, environmental protection, and greater prosperity. Before joining RTI, he served as a foreign service officer for USAID, achieving the highest rank of career minister in the Senior Foreign Service, and led high-profile initiatives across various international development sectors. Panel Discussion - Expanding Access, Saving Lives: Global Partnerships for Critical Care Vafa Akhavan Chief Executive Officer, World Pediatrics Vafa Akhavan is the Chief Executive Officer of World Pediatrics, leading efforts to advance children’s health worldwide. A seasoned global executive and management consultant, he has worked with startups, mid-caps and Fortune 500 clients across seven sectors and sixteen countries. He is a senior faculty member at the Schulich Executive Education Centre, Schulich School of Business, York University, and serves on the Board of Children Believe, contributing to its Audit & Risk and Governance & HR committees. Vafa was selected as one of the top 10 most influential Canadian Professionals by Beyond! Magazine In 2023. He has also been a contributing writer to Canada’s premier business publication, The Globe and Mail. Panel Discussion - Expanding Access, Saving Lives: Global Partnerships for Critical Care Diane Lynn Enterprise Assistant Vice President, Global Health Care, Advocate Health; MBA '26 UNC Pembroke Diane Lynn is the Enterprise Assistant Vice President of Global Health Services at Advocate Health, the fifth-largest nonprofit integrated health system in the U.S. She leads enterprise-wide international and national programs, including destination care, international strategy and business development, and physician observations. With more than 25 years of experience spanning business administration, operations, and healthcare leadership, Diane has served in key roles at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and University of Michigan Health–Sparrow. She holds credentials from National Louis University and Harvard Business School, and actively contributes to multiple boards, including the U.S. Cooperative of International Patient Programs and the WHO World Rehabilitation Alliance. Panel Discussion - Expanding Access, Saving Lives: Global Partnerships for Critical Care Jill Sergison, MA, CNM, RN Co-Founder, Points True North Consulting; PhD '27 Duke University School of Nursing Jill Sergison is the Co-Founder of Points True North Consulting, a firm dedicated to advancing health, gender, racial, and social justice through strategic coalition building, policy change, and campaign development. Under her leadership, Points True North provides tailored consulting services to nonprofits, policy organizations, businesses, and foundations, with a focus on healthcare, scientific research, and policy. Jill’s expertise lies in building organizational capacity by designing structures, processes, and skills essential for long-term mission success. She is also a PhD Candidate at Duke University, a Duke Margolis Health Policy Scholar, and the Founder and Executive Director of NC Nurses for Reproductive Rights. Closing Remarks Closing Remarks Krishna Udayakumar, MD, MBA Founding Director, Duke Global Health Innovation Center Dr. Krishna Udayakumar is the Founding Director of the Duke Global Health Innovation Center and Executive Director of Innovations in Healthcare, a non-profit co-founded by Duke, McKinsey & Company, and the World Economic Forum. His work focuses on advancing the study, scaling, and adaptation of health innovations and policy reforms globally. At Duke University, he serves as Professor of Global Health and has an additional faculty appointment in Medicine. He also chairs the university’s Global Priorities Committee. Dr. Udayakumar earned his MD and MBA from Duke University and has been widely published and featured in leading global media outlets. The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Student Speakers The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session: "Getting People in the Room " Breanna Barrett MSc Candidate, Duke University Breanna Barrett is a senior and an Accelerated Master of Science in Global Health student at Duke University, where her work focuses on integrating mental health support into oncology care across Jamaica, the United States, and Tanzania. She has conducted qualitative and implementation research with cancer care providers, community stakeholders, and health ministries, with an emphasis on stigma, psychosocial support, and health systems strengthening. Her current thesis explores pathways for embedding mental health services within cancer treatment settings in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session: "Rethinking the Value of Care: Choosing Wiser Over More " Yue Suo, MS PhD Candidate, Fudan University Visiting Scholar, Duke University Yue Suo is a Visiting Scholar at the Duke Global Health Institute and a PhD candidate at the School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. Her research focuses on health services utilization in cancer care, health technology assessment, and health systems. She has worked with the World Bank and the New Development Bank on projects addressing health technologies and health systems in China. The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session: "The Forest Fire We Can’t See: Antimicrobial resistance & climate change as one crisis " Lana Abusalem, MD MSc Candidate, Duke University Dr. Lana Abusalem is a physician and global health fellow who is pursuing a Master of Science in Global Health at Duke University. She has trained in internal medicine and infectious diseases. Her work focuses on antimicrobial resistance and she is currently leading a project in Sri Lanka on resistant infections hoping to advance sustainable approaches to global health that bridge clinical medicine, policy, and planetary health. The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session: "Monitoring Matters: Getting creative about global health evaluation " Lucy Tantum PhD Candidate, UNC Chapel Hill Lucy Tantum is a fourth-year PhD candidate in Environmental Sciences and Engineering at the University of North Carolina's Gillings School of Global Public Health. Her PhD research focuses on impact evaluation of water, sanitation, and hygiene programs in healthcare facility settings. Prior to UNC, Lucy worked on health system strengthening programs and research projects in Liberia. She holds a bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College. The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session: "The People Closest to the Problem Hold the Solutions " Anoushka Das MPH Candidate, UNC Chapel Hill Anoushka Das is pursuing her Master of Public Health in Global Health at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. She has experience working in Kenya on community-driven programs addressing women's health disparities. Her current research focuses on understanding adolescent girls and women's health and advancing equitable health solutions for underserved populations. Return to Event Page Thank you to our sponsors! Platinum Sponsor Gold Sponsor Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsor Sponsoring Host

Reflections on a Shared Day of Community and Commitment On April 25, the North Carolina Global Health Alliance welcomed 120 members of our state’s global health community to the NC Biotechnology Center for a powerful day of reflection, reconnection, and forward momentum. The Global Health Futures Symposium was more than a professional gathering—it was a reunion, a healing space, and a rallying cry. As we gathered over coffee, breakfast, and long-overdue hugs, it was clear how much we all needed this moment. In the wake of an unprecedented 95-day pause in U.S. foreign aid programs—triggered by an Executive Order to “Reevaluate and Realign” international assistance—our sector has been shaken. Jobs lost. Futures uncertain. But our purpose remains clear. In her opening remarks, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm , Executive Director of NCGHA, met the moment with honesty. She spoke to the exhaustion and uncertainty many in the room were feeling — and also to the unshakable importance of our work. “This is lifesaving work,” she said, “and when we say lifesaving, that is not hyperbole.” Quoting John Lewis, she reminded us: “...each one of us in every generation must do our part… the responsibility is ours alone to build a better society and a more peaceful world.” To open our hearts before the policy conversations began, Brianna introduced Emily Cataneo and Arshia Simkin , founders of the Redbud Writing Project , who invited attendees to engage in healing through storytelling. They led with a poignant reading, then encouraged everyone to write—offering writing prompts and a midday workshop that many attendees described as moving and transformative. The first panel, moderated by Brianna, brought Elisha Dunn-Georgiou , JD, MS, President & CEO of the Global Health Council, and Jeremy Tolbert , Deputy National Outreach Director of the US Global Leadership Coalition, into conversation on the state of global health advocacy. They unpacked the challenges of navigating today’s political climate, from litigation to preserve global health funding to reframing how we talk about international investment with local relevance. “Leading globally matters locally,” Jeremy reminded us—a theme echoed throughout the day. After the break (and Redbud’s writing workshop), we shifted focus to the local application of global expertise. In a session facilitated by Deborah Baron , PhD, MPH, MIA, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Health Behavior at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, panelists Laura Rowley , PhD, Vice President of Life Sciences Economic Development at the NC Biotechnology Center and Patrick Brown , PharmD, Executive Director of the NC Public Health Collaboration, explored how global health skills—advocacy, cross-sector leadership, resilience—can and should power local health efforts. Their message was clear: your skills are transferable, and North Carolina needs you. In a moving moment that left few dry eyes, Redbud returned to the stage to introduce two audience members who shared stories they had written that day—raw reflections of service, struggle, and enduring commitment to health equity. NC Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall closed the symposium with a powerful reminder of North Carolina’s long-standing and ongoing role in global health leadership. Drawing on her office’s 26-year partnership with Moldova, she emphasized the importance of diplomacy, collaboration, and storytelling. “You represent the best of who we are,” she said. “As you listen, collaborate, and lead—never turn down the opportunity to share your story.” Brianna concluded the day with a message of belonging: whether or not you remain in the traditional global health sector, you will always be part of this community. The North Carolina Global Health Alliance is, and will remain, a home for all who believe in global health equity. Let us continue the climb—together. With Closing Remarks From Elaine F. Marshall Secretary of State North Carolina Globe Global Health Advocacy: Uniting to Build a New Future for Global Health Elisha Dunn-Georgiou, JD, M.S. President & CEO Global Health Council Globe Jeremy Tolbert Deputy National Outreach Director US Global Leadership Coalition Globe Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, MPH Executive Director North Carolina Global Health Alliance Globe Pathways Forward: Applying Global Skills to Meet Local Needs Patrick Brown, PharmD Executive Director NC Public Health Association Globe Laura Rowley, PhD Vice President, Life Sciences Economic Development North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech) Globe Deborah Baron, PhD, MPH, MIA Adjunct Assistant Professor, Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Globe Agenda 8:30 - 9:00 Registration, Networking, Redbud Writing Project Station 9:00 - 9:30 Welcome with NCGHA Executive Director, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm and Redbud Writing Project's Emily Cataneo & Arshia Simkin. 9:30 - 10:15 Session #1: Uniting to Build a New Future for Global Health with Global Health Council CEO, Elisha Dunn-Georgiou; US Global Leadership Coalition Deputy National Outreach Director, Jeremy Tolbert; and NCGHA Executive Director, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm. 10:15 - 10:45 Networking and Redbud Writing Project Station 10:45 - 11:30 Session #2: Adapting Global Skills for Local Careers with NC Public Health Association Executive Director, Patrick Brown; NC Biotech Center Vice President of Life Sciences Economic Development, Laura Rowley; and UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Adjunct Assistant Professor, Deborah Baron. 11:30 - 12:00 Closing Remarks from NC Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall Thank you to our sponsors NCDHHS and host the NC Biotechnology Center!

Keynote Speaker Peter Kilmarx, MD Deputy Director, Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Featured Speaker Secretary Kody Kinsley Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services Plenary Panel Suzanne Maman, PhD Associate Dean for Global Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Lindsey Bickers Block, MPH Director of Health Education & Community Transformation, Durham County Department of Public Health Francis Lajara de los Reyes III, PhD Glenn E. & Phyllis J. Futrell Distinguished Professor & University Faculty Scholar, Dept. of Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering, NC State University Liz Mallas Law, MPA, MS, MA Director, FOCUS Regional Lead, NC, SC, AR, Gilead Sciences Chris Beyrer, MD, MPH Director, Duke Global Health Institute Moderator Closing Remarks Congresswoman Deborah Ross United States Representative for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District Concurrent Sessions Countering Misinformation on the Journey to Earning Trust Brian Southwell, PhD, MA Distinguished Fellow & Lead Scientist for Public Understanding of Science, RTI International Erin Fry Sosne, MPH Director of Strategy, Department of Public Health, North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services Kathie Dello, PhD State Climatologist of North Carolina Director, North Carolina State Climate Office Sachiko Ozawa, PhD, MHS Associate Professor, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy Global to America's Local: Learning from Global Health Models to Address American Challenges Pearl Friedberg Program Support Director, Ipas Jenny Jensen, MSN, MPH, RN Chief Nursing Officer, Family Connects International Lauren Bevington, LCSW, MBA Implementation Consultant, BroadReach Group Kristen Sullivan, PhD, MSW, MBA Director of Undergraduate Programs, Global One Health Academy, NCSU Moderator North Carolina Leadership for Global Impact Michelle Ries, MPH President & CEO, North Carolina Institute of Medicine Peter Cassidy, FACHE Vice President, Atrium Health Brandon Young, PhD Senior Medical Science Liaison, CSL Seqirus Solomon Ayehu, MD, MSc, MIDP Research Assistant, Duke Global Health Institute; Duke Sanford School of Public Policy, MIDP '24 Moderator Conflict to Community: The Continuum of Care from Displacement to Resettlement Jennifer Toller Erausquin, PhD Associate Professor, Public Health Education, UNC Greensboro Tra Tran, MS Research Coordinator, Refugee Community Partnerships Coy Isaacs Senior Director, Crisis Response and Resilience, FHI 360 Cristina España Deputy Director of the Office of Public Engagement, Office of NC Governor Cooper Moderator Addressing Global Health Priorities in North Carolina Communities Nick Galvez, MBA, CCMA Rural Hospital Program Manager, NC Department of Health & Human Services Ross Boyce, MD, MSc Assistant Professor of Medicine, Assistant Professor of Epidemiology, UNC School of Medicine & UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Mercedes Bravo, PhD Assistant Research Professor of Global Health & Associate Director for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, Duke Global Health Institute Zainab Alidina, PhD, MPH Data and Evaluation Manager, The Center for Child & Family Health Moderator New Models of Leadership for Tomorrow's Global Health Katherine Turner, MPH President and Founder, Global Citizen LLC; Adjunct Professor, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health LaHoma Smith Romocki, PhD, MPH Professor & Department Chair, Public Health Education, North Carolina Central University Karah Pedersen, MPH Deputy Director of Business Development, IntraHealth International Poster Presentations See the agenda here! Conference Agenda Thank You to Our 2024 Conference Sponsors! Gold Level Sponsors Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsors Sustaining Sponsors Mastro Global, LLC Want to showcase your institution to North Carolina's top global health professionals? Email us at Members@ncglobalhealth.org to learn more about sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities!

Terms of Use Thanks for visiting our website. This page sets forth the terms and conditions governing the activities of our website visitors and the relationship between the site visitors and our organization. This website is owned and operated by North Carolina Global Health Alliance. These Terms set forth the terms and conditions under which you may use our website and resources as offered by us. This website offers visitors resources on global health topics. By accessing or using the website of our service, you approve that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms. In order to use our website and/or receive our services, you must be at least 18 years of age, or of the legal age of majority in your jurisdiction, and possess the legal authority, right and freedom to enter into these Terms as a binding agreement. You are not allowed to use this website and/or receive services if doing so is prohibited in your country or under any law or regulation applicable to you. The prices we charge for membership to the Alliance is listed on the site. We reserve the right to change our prices displayed at any time, and to correct pricing errors that may inadvertently occur. We may, without prior notice, change the membership; stop providing the services or any features of the memberships we offer; or create limits for the membership. You agree to receive from time to time promotional messages and materials from us, by mail, email or any other contact form you may provide us with (including your phone number for calls or text messages). If you don't want to receive such promotional materials or notices – please just notify us at any time. Effective Date: May 2022

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< Back Press Release: NCGHA Sounds Alarm on USAID Shutdown, Impacting Jobs and Economy Feb 3, 2025 North Carolina Global Health Alliance Sounds Alarm on USAID Shutdown, Impacting Jobs and Economy FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 4, 2025 North Carolina Global Health Alliance Condemns Dismantling of USAID, Citing Severe Economic and Security Impacts for North Carolina Raleigh, NC – The North Carolina Global Health Alliance (NCGHA) expresses profound concern over the recent actions leading to the dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Following an initial Stop Work Order that paused all funding and caused immediate furloughs and disruptions, the subsequent shutdown of USAID operations has exacerbated the crisis, threatening thousands of jobs in North Carolina and posing significant risks to both the state's economy and global stability. North Carolina stands as the fourth-largest recipient of USAID funding in the nation, supporting a robust global health sector that contributes $31.9 billion annually to the state's economy. The initial funding freeze led to immediate furloughs and disrupted long-standing international partnerships. The complete dismantling of USAID now jeopardizes the future of numerous organizations and the livelihoods of countless professionals dedicated to global health and development. "The dismantling of USAID is a direct assault on North Carolina's economic vitality and our leadership in global health," said Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, Executive Director of the NCGHA. "The initial funding freeze was devastating, but the complete shutdown threatens to decimate an industry that not only provides thousands of jobs but also plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges." Beyond the immediate economic repercussions, the closure of USAID undermines U.S. national security interests. USAID's programs are instrumental in countering global instability, mitigating the influence of adversaries, and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. The absence of these programs cedes strategic ground to competitors and diminishes the United States' ability to respond to international crises. The NCGHA urgently calls upon North Carolina's congressional delegation, including Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, to take immediate action to address this crisis. The organization also encourages concerned citizens to contact their representatives to advocate for the restoration of USAID's critical functions. "We cannot afford to remain passive as an essential agency is dismantled, jeopardizing both our state's economy and our national security," Clarke-Schwelm added. "It is imperative that we act swiftly to restore USAID's operations and protect the interests of North Carolina and the nation." For media inquiries, please contact: Brianna Clarke-Schwelm Executive Director, North Carolina Global Health Alliance Email: Brianna@ncglobalhealth.org Website: www.ncglobalhealth.org Previous Next

On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, the North Carolina Global Health Alliance will host the 11th Annual North Carolina Global Health Conference in Raleigh, NC. Join leaders and visionaries, students and experts, practitioners and researchers for a day of networking, learning, and reflecting. Spend the day exploring how global learnings can be adapted to and from local North Carolina settings. Hear from both global and domestic leaders with expertise in translating learnings across contexts, actualizing the ideals of global to local, and establishing mutually beneficial bidirectional collaborations. Take part in an exciting day of Bridging North Carolina with the World! Read more about the agenda here: CONFERENCE AGENDA Registration has closed Featured Speakers Peter Kilmarx, MD Deputy Director, Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Congresswoman Deborah Ross United States Representative for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District Secretary Kody Kinsley Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services See our full list of speakers here! Conference Speakers Check out these other exciting speakers! Chris Beyrer, MD, MPH Director, Duke Global Health Institute Francis Lajara de los Reyes III, PhD Glenn E. & Phyllis J. Futrell Distinguished Professor & University Faculty Scholar, Dept. of Civil, Construction & Environmental Engineering, NC State University Michelle Ries, MPH President & CEO, North Carolina Institute of Medicine Suzanne Maman, PhD Associate Dean for Global Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Brian Southwell, PhD, MA Distinguished Fellow, & Lead Scientist for Public Understanding of Science, RTI International LaHoma Smith Romocki, PhD, MPH Professor & Department Chair, Public Health Education, North Carolina Central University Thank You to Our 2024 Conference Sponsors! Gold Level Sponsors Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsors Sustaining Sponsors Mastro Global, LLC Want to showcase your institution to North Carolina's top global health professionals? Email us at Members@ncglobalhealth.org to learn more about sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities! Reserve a booth at the day-long Exhibit Hall and showcase your organization to a vast global health audience! A reservation includes one 6-foot table, one registration, access to all sessions, and lunch. Exhibit Hall Pricing Member Organizations: $400 Non-Member Organizations: $600 Email M embers@ncglobalhealth.org to confirm your reservation. Registration Rates Tickets are available until Friday, October 18! *A limited number of needs based scholarships are available. Inquire at members@ncglobalhealth.org * Member Professional: $200 Please purchase the “Professional” ticket and add your member discount code at checkout. If you do not have a member discount code, please email Members@ncglobalhealth.org Non-Member Professional : $250 Member Student : $75 Member Universities: Duke University, NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill Non-Member Student : $100 Low-Income Country Professional : $40 Please purchase the “Professional” ticket and add your discount code at checkout. If you do not have a discount code, please email Members@ncglobalhealth.org Government Agency Discount : $110 Please be sure to register with your government email address to receive the government discount. If you have any questions, please email Members@ncglobalhealth.org ! Register Today! Looking Back at the 2023 North Carolina Global Health Conference Want to join? Reserve your spot today! Tickets on sale through Friday, October 18 Register here! We are committed to working with local businesses. Check them out! Photography Printing Catering Rave! Catering Performance Why Attend the North Carolina Global Health Conference? Network! The NC Global Health Conference attracts talent from across the state and region, and from across the many discplines of the global health industry. This is your chance to connect - and reconnect - with professionals and students from across the global health arena. You never know who you'll meet! Learn! The conference theme - Bridging North Carolina with the World - encourages engagement in a wide range of topics. Hear from keynote speakers, a plenary panel, and breakout sessions; no matter your area of expertise, there will be something for you! Specific topic areas included in the day's agenda include, but are not limited to: local to global / global to local, climate change, sexual and reproductive health, HIV, rural health, North Carolina public health, technology, humanitarian & crisis work, health equity, WASH, engineering, funding global health. Don't see your topic of interest included here? Check our website for an updated list of speakers or email us at Members@ncglobalhealth.org for more information! Contribute to the Conversation! Every session and space is curated to be as welcoming and as interactive as possible. Attendees will have ample opportunity to meaningfully participate in sessions, connect with speakers, and meet other attendees. Connect with Global Health Institutions! Not only will there be speakers and attendees representing the very best in global health, there will also be an Exhibit Hall where attendees will have ample opportunity to meet with representatives from institutions sharing jobs, research findings, opportunities for engagement, and more! Be Part of the Community! North Carolina's global health industry is simultaneously big and small; it is a dynamic, growing industry, and yet for newcomers, it can feel like everyone already knows one another. This is the perfect place to get plugged into who is doing what, where, and explore how you can be part of it.