< Back NCGHA Member Organizations Reflect on Impacts Facing North Carolina Tom George Mar 6, 2025 RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. (WTVD) -- The non-profit research institute RTI International has announced more cuts due to a lack of federal funding. Previous Next

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!

< Back NCGHA and Member Representatives Speak at Durham City Council Meeting Mar 6, 2025 City of Durham, NC Announces Joint Resolution Calling for the Immediate Lifting of the Stop Work Order on Foreign Assistance Programs and the Re-opening of the United States Agency for International Development Video will start at introduction of Joint Resolution to Durham City Council Links to the Motion and Joint Resolution: Motion to Adopt Joint Resolution Joint Resolution Previous Next

2026 NC Global Health Career Week Monday, Feb 2 - Friday, Feb 6 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ET every day Register below! Mon Mon, Feb 2 @ 12:00 pm ET Purposeful Preparations: How to think about career decisions in 2026 Join us for a candid conversation about how to think strategically about career decisions in 2026. We'll dive deep into doing the groundwork that leads to smarter choices in a competitive landscape. Register Tues Tues, Feb 3 @ 12:00 pm ET Where the Jobs Are (and How to Find Them) If you're wondering where the real job opportunities are right now, this session is for you. We'll take a practical look at where jobs are emerging in life sciences, civic service, and government work. We'll share concrete tools. Register Wed Wed, Feb 4 @ 12:00 pm ET A Recruiter's Guide to Acing the Interview Ever wonder what's really going through a recruiter's mind during an interview? Join us a for a behind-the-scenes look at the good, the bad, and the unexpected from the point of view of the people making hiring decisions. Register Thurs Thurs, Feb 5 @ 12:00 pm ET Standing Out in a Crowded Field: How to get noticed for the job you want In a competitive job market filled with highly qualified candidates, standing out can feel overwhelming. Join us as we break down what actually makes a candidate memorable - from first impressions, resumes, cover letters, and follow-up. Register Fri Fri, Feb 6 @ 12:00 pm ET Success Stories: Conversations with global health professionals who made the pivot work Career pivots aren't easy, but you are not alone. We will hear directly from global health professionals who navigated job transitions in 2025 and found new roles that align with their skills and values. Hear lessons learned to jumpstart your own 2026 job search. Register

< Back WRAL News Coverage of Funding Freeze and Stop Work Order Effecting North Carolina Eric Miller, WRAL Feb 5, 2025 A funding freeze and stop work order at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is threatening thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in economic impact in North Carolina. WRAL coverage of the funding freeze and stop work order To view the full article: https://www.wral.com/news/local/public-health-experts-warn-trump-funding-freeze-impact-north-carolina-february-2025/ Previous Next

Our Story Our Origin Story Before 2009, professionals and leaders in North Carolina would see each other at events, including dinners and receptions. They would say, "you know, we have so much in common." This included many shared interests and a commitment to global health, whether in North Carolina or across the globe. "We should do something together," they'd proclaim. But then they'd go home. And when they saw each other again, they'd have the same conversation and come to the same conclusion. ‘We should do something - together ." In 2009, they finally did. Leaders at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Duke University, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Biotechnology Center, FHI 360, IntraHealth International, and RTI International founded what was then known as the Triangle Global Health Consortium, which has now grown and become the North Carolina Global Health Alliance. The evolution of the Alliance hasn't changed its goal to be a successful convener, amplifier, and advocate for global health in the state and abroad, carrying out its mission through collaborative events, networking, and career development. But it's that original spirit that moved us, that recurring after-dinner conversation of "let’s do something together." That's the real tie that binds us together and keeps us moving forward into the future. Join Us! Serving Our Members We help people and groups discover and create the connections they would have otherwise not established. The Alliance is the source for: Partnering for growing business. Through our technical sharing and networking events, we aid organizations in forging alliances for global health innovation to win new projects or bring in new revenue through global initiatives. Access to specialists. Through our knowledge-sharing offerings, forums, and networking events, we help connect people who have specialized expertise to organizations, individuals, and projects with corresponding needs. Access to new talent. By connecting our organizations and their staff and students, we put the Triangle’s exceptional talent to use regionally and globally. We also help prepare the next generation of global health leaders. Access to global health best practices. Through our knowledge sharing and technical events, we help the global health community identify and share best practices and demonstrate how best practices can unite traditionally unilateral sectors. Economic growth for the Alliance and North Carolina. In promoting the Alliance and N.C. as an epicenter of global health worldwide, we help attract new talent, investment, and organizations to the region. Consolidated voice for advocacy. By combining our members’ voices into one common voice for global health, we convey more power, clout, and credibility with other businesses, governments, and communities regionally and worldwide.

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

2024 North Carolina Global Health Conference POSTER PRESENTATIONS 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 Poster Presentations 8:15 am - 9:00 am Revisit the posters you missed at 12:45 Room 2 Developing a Differentiated Care Model Strategy for People Returning to HIV Care in Cape Town, South Africa Ashima Agarwal, MPH Candidate 2025, UNC Chapel Hill A Tailored Approach: Population and Sex-Specific Anthropometrics Thresholds for Qatari's Rawan Ajeen, PhD Candidate 2025, UNC Chapel Hill Drivers of Physicians' Migrations from Ethiopia to the US: A Mixed Methods Study Solomon Ayehu, MD, MSc MIDP, Duke University Working towards Equitable Practices in Global Health Partnerships and Programming Sarah Brittingham, MA, MPH , Technical Advisor, FHI 360 Adverse Childhood Experiences and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among Ukrainian College Students: Mediating Role of Intimate Partner Violence and Lifetime Trauma Experience Julia Burlaka, PhD, CHES , Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Greensboro Viktor Burlaka, LMSW, PhD, Professor of Social Work, School of Health and Human Sciences, University of North Carolina at Greensboro Oleksii Serdiuk, PhD, Head of the Research Laboratory for Psychological Support of Law Enforcement, Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs; Kharkiv, UKRAINE (not present) Arash Javanbakht, M.D., Director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic at Wayne State University, School of Medicine (not present) The Association Between Race and Rurality on Maternal Outcomes in North Carolina Ebony Burns, DHA, MHA , Clinical Research Professional How does a Free Childcare Center at a Local Hospital Improve Access to Healthcare for Mothers? Sydney Chen , BA Global Health Candidate 2025, Duke University Heterogeneous spatial distribution of knock-down resistance F1534S mutations in Aedes albopictus in Wake County, North Carolina Jessica Ding, PhD Candidate 2028, North Carolina State University Tomo Adams, PhD Candidate 2029, North Carolina State University Increased prevalence of hypertension in dental screening patients in Mosoriot, Kenya Amy Gillespie , Doctor of Dental Surgery Candidate 2027, UNC Adams School of Dentistry Evaluating the Breastfeeding-Friendly Community Partner Initiative in Durham, North Carolina Kimberley Glover, MPH 2024, Temple University Do Elderly Men and Women Experience Grief Differently? Investigating Gender Differential Impacts of Spousal Bereavement on Health Outcomes Among Older Adults in the United States Elena Granowsky , BA Global Health Candidate 2025, Duke University Lauren Tse, BS Economics Candidate 2025, Duke University Longitudinal Mental Health Outcomes for Transitioning OSCYAs in Udayan Care Rohan Gupta, BS Psychology Candidate 2025, Duke University Chidimma Umerah, Duke University Pratikchhya Rimal, Duke University Assessing the antenatal care-seeking determinants associated with the penetration of the WHO eight-visit antenatal care policy across states in Nigeria Christiana Ikemeh, PhD Candidate 2025, UNC Gillings School of Global PUblic Health, UNC Chapel Hill Leah M. Frerichs, PhD, Associate professor, Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill (not present) Kazeem Arogundade, MD, Bruyere Research institute, Ottawa, Canada (not present) Adedayo O. Adeyemi, PhD, Director, Center for Infectious Diseases Research and Evaluation, Lafia, Nasarawa state, Nigeria (not present) Christopher M. Shea, PhD, Professor, Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill (not present) Justin G. Trogdon, PhD, Professor, Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill (not present) Effects of self-reported health, obesity, and hypertension on the likelihood of having health insurance in Mexico Lirui Jiao , PhD Candidate 2028, UNC Chapel Hill Delays in seeking care among pediatric cancer patients: A qualitative study in Northern Tanzania Happiness Kajoka, MD, Msc Candidate 2025, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tanzania Ingredients for Success: Factors associated with successful integration of depression care into non-communicable disease clinics in Malawi: A mixed-methods analysis Abigail Morrison, PhD Candidate 2025, Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill Childhood vaccination prevalence and perception in Roatán, Honduras Madeline Morrison, BA Global Health Candidate 2026 Grace Muriithi, BA Global Health Candidate 2026 Reena Kagan, BA Global Health Candidate 2026 (not present) Arya Kumar, BS Biomedical Engineering Candidate 2027 (not present) Barriers to Effective Pain Management in Sickle Cell Disease: Voices of Patients, Caregivers, and Healthcare Providers in Kenya Ashita Nazareth , MSc Candidate 2025, Duke Global Health Institute From Research to Practice: Integrating Telehealth Counseling for Suicide Prevention Among People Living with HIV in Tanzania’s Healthcare System Paul Ngangula , MSc Candidate 2025, Duke Global Health Institute Weather Extremes Modify the Efficacy of Sanitation Interventions on Fecal Contamination in Rural Bangladeshi Households Caitlin Niven , PhD Candidate, North Carolina State University Psychological Burden and Social Support Needs Among Adolescents and Young Adults with Sickle Cell Disease in Kenya Yvonne Ochieng, PhD Clinical Psychology 2029, Duke University A Mixed-Methods Review and Recommendations for Improving Community Engaged Contracting Process for Adverse Childhood Experiences and Resilience Araba Oduro, MD , MPH Candidate 2025, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health What is the future of INGOs: Perspectives from the Transforming INGO Models for Equity (TIME) Initiative Catherine Packer, MSPH , Technical Advisor, FHI 360 Kim Kucinskas, Technical Director, Organizational Transformation, Humentum (not present) Robyn Sneeringer, Chief of Staff, EngenderHealth (not present) An Evaluation of the KIKOP Care Group Training Cascade in Kisii, Kenya Shriti Pant, MPH Candidate 2025, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, & Curamericas Intern Kaitlin Polgar, MPH Candidate 2025, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, & Curamericas Intern The Role of Faith in Suicide Prevention Among People Living with HIV: Perspectives of Religious Leaders and Mental Health Workers in Tanzania Ryan Parker, MSc Candidate 2025, Duke Global Health Institute Factors Influencing Hypertension Treatment Adherence in East Africa: a Scoping Review Mirlene Perry, PhD Candidate 2026/2027, Duke University School of Nursing Dengue Virus Seroprevalence in Kinshasa, DRC Rachel Sendor, MPH , PhD Candidate 2025, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Investigating Use of Coping Strategies and Mental Health of Transitioning OSCs in Udayan Care Akhilesh Shivaramakrishnan , BA Global Health Candidate 2025, Duke Global Health Institute Alek Mishra, Duke Global Health Institute Seth Liyanapathirana, Duke Global Health Institute Virtual versus Reality: A Comparative Analysis of Medical Advice Quality in Direct-to-Consumer Telemedicine and In-Person Consultations Shuyi Song, PhD Candidate 2027, UNC Chapel Hill Youth Engagement in Contraceptive R&D: Why & How? Becca Stern, BSPH Candidate 2025, UNC Chapel Hill, Youth Council Member at FHI 360 Addressing Unscheduled Hospital Readmissions: Insights from Northern Tanzania Frijenia Sumbai, MD, MSc Candidate 2025, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tanzania Public-Private Partnerships in India’s Covid-19 Response: Exploring Private Sector Perspectives on Pandemic Lessons and Future Pandemic Preparedness Ei Ei Swe, MB, BS, MSc , Duke University Association of Flooring Material with E. coli Contamination in Rural Bangladeshi Households Sumaiya Tazin , PhD Candidate 2026, North Carolina State University Optimizing Child Nutrition in Mali: A Data-Driven Approach to Tackling Malnutrition through Community Engagement Aklil Tessema, BA Candidate 2024, UNC Chapel HIll Preliminary mixed-methods analysis of disability prevalence and resource needs for persons with disabilities on Roatán, Honduras Hishi Ulak , BA Global Health Candidate 2025, Duke Global Health Institute Global Roles in Local Context: Enhancing Medicaid Expansion in Rural North Carolina Through Community Health Workers Harris Upchurch, BS Biology & Global Health 2024, Duke University Empowerment among treatment-engaged individuals living with schizophrenia in Tanzania Madeline Van Husen , MSW/MPH Candidate 2025, UNC Chapel Hill Relationships between epigenetic age in young adulthood to early-life and adult BMI differ between males and females Romaniya Voloshchuk, PhD Candidate, UNC Chapel Hill Advancing Community-Led HPV Screening Through Mobile Health App Development: Iterative Improvements of mSaada in Kisumu, Kenya Skylar Webb , BA Environmental Science & Policy, BA Global Health Candidate 2025, Duke Global Health Institute Sahil Choudhri, Duke Global Health Institute Afraaz Malick, Duke Global Health Institute Kelsey Goldwein, Duke Global Health Institute Global Network for Women’s and Children’s Health Research Scoping Review Roger Williams, MPH, MA , Protocol Manager and Project Coordinator, RTI International Anika Hannan, MPH , Research Public Health Analyst for Monitoring & Evaluation, RTI International Thank You to Our 2024 Conference Sponsors! Gold Level Sponsors Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsors Sustaining Sponsors Mastro Global, LLC

The 2022 NC Global Health Annual Conference At a time of global economic hardship, and when global health inequities are even more pronounced, our global health programs, services and research need to be more impactful than ever. Are we actually making a difference? Are our programs and services having the individual, social, economic and political impacts that are needed today? Is our research yielding the required evidence? Can we demonstrate this impact? Can we identify when they are not? What are the key elements of effective programs? What lessons can we learn? The 2022 Annual Conference explored these questions and the global health impact North Carolina's organizations, and those based nationally and globally, are having at the individual, community and global levels. Thank you to all of the amazing presenters, speakers, attendees, and sponsors who made the 2022 NC Global Health Annual Conference such a success! Thank You to Our 2022 Annual Conference Sponsors Platinum Sponsors Gold Sponsors Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsors ...And a Huge Thank You to Our Awesome 2022 NC Global Health Annual Conference Planning Committee Laura Hoemeke , DrPH - Senior Consultant, Clear Outcomes; Adjunct Professor, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Sydney Nadel , MPH - Advanced Implementation Specialist, Family Connects International Valerie Flax , PhD - Senior Research Public Health Analyst, RTI International Katrina Kulik , MAS - Operations and Development Manager, CFK Africa Suzanne Mama n, PhD - Associate Dean for Global Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Naya Villarreal , MPH - Global Health Associate Director, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Kathy Walmer , MSN - Executive Director, Family Health Ministries Sut Soneja , PhD - Epidemiologist and Lead Public Health Specialist, MITRE Hannah Bain Lineberger - Communications Manager, CFK Africa André Anthony - Executive Director, North Carolina Global Health Alliance Heather Vahdat , MPH - Executive Director, Male Contraceptive Initiative Brittany Trottier , MPH - Health Specialist, NIEHS Aubrey Weber , MPH - Senior Technical Officer for Science Facilitation, FHI 360 Jennifer Schroeder Tyson , MPH - Lecturer, Appalachian State University Grace Ruffin - Career Development and Community Engagement Intern, North Carolina Global Health Alliance

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

Current Members Ready to join us? Email us at members@ncglobalhealth.org to get started. Stay in the loop. The best way to stay connected is to subscribe to our newsletter* & follow us on LinkedIn. JOIN US *Be sure to check your spam after signing up for our newsletter & confirm your subscription.

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. Looking back at an event to remember The 2025 North Carolina Global Health Alliance Fall Event brought our community together at a moment when global health is rapidly shifting, and the energy in the room was undeniable! More than 140 practitioners, students, policymakers, and partners gathered to reflect on an era of transition and to imagine a path forward rooted in collaboration, courage, and hope. Throughout the morning, speakers challenged us to confront the complexities of global health today: evolving disease burdens, mismatched funding priorities, shifting geopolitical realities, and the urgent need for truly community-driven solutions. Storytelling emerged as a central theme, echoed most powerfully by our Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health speakers. These five rising leaders delivered TED-style talks on antimicrobial resistance and climate change, stigma reduction, low value care, creative evaluation, and the importance of centering - and truly hearing - lived experience. Their optimism, insight, and courage reminded us that the future of global health is not only bright, it is already taking shape. Date Friday, November 14, 2025 Time 8:30 am - 12:30 pm Followed by an informal lunch gathering at Boxyard RTP at 1:00 pm Location NC Biotech Center 15 TW Alexander Dr Durham, NC 27713 Agenda 8:30 - 9:00 am Registration & Networking 9:00 - 9:20 am Welcome & Opening Remarks, Brianna Clarke-Schwelm 9:20 - 9:40 am The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session, Five-minute talks with Breanna Barrett & Yue Suo, Introduced by Tim Mastro 9:40 - 10:30 am The Long View: Leading for Global Health's Next Chapter, Panel Discussion with Rashad Massoud, Paul Weisenfeld & Brianna Clarke-Schwelm 10:30 - 11:00 am Break & Networking 11:00 - 11:20 pm The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Session, Five-minute talks with Anoushka Das, Lucy Tantum & Lana Abusalem 11:20 - 12:10 pm Expanding Access, Saving Lives: Global Partnerships for Critical Care, Panel Discussion with Diane Lynn, Vafa Akhavan & Jill Sergison 12:10 - 12:30 Closing Remarks with Krishna Udayakumar 1:00 pm + Informal lunch gathering at Boxyard RTP. Join us! Featured Speakers Read Speaker Bios Here Vafa Akhavan CEO, World Pediatrics Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, MPH Executive Director, North Carolina Global Health Alliance Diane Lynn Assistant Vice President, Global Health Care Advocate Health; MBA '26 M. Rashad Massoud, MD, MPH, FACP Head, Global Health USA IQVIA Timothy Mastro, MD, DTM&H Board Chair, NC Global Health Alliance Principal, Mastro Global LLC Jill Sergison, MA, CNM, RN Co-Founder, Points True North Consulting; PhD '27 Duke University School of Nursing Krishna Udayakumar, MD, MBA Founding Director, Duke Global Health Innovation Center Paul Weisenfeld, JD Executive Advisor International Development Group RTI International The Ward Cates Emerging Voices in Global Health Student Speakers Lana Abusalem, MD MS Candidate Duke University Breanna Barrett MS Candidate Duke University Anoushka Das MPH Candidate UNC Chapel Hill Yue Suo, MS Visiting Scholar, Duke University PhD Candidate, Fudan University Lucy Tantum PhD Candidate UNC Chapel Hill Registration has closed. Thank you to our sponsors! Platinum Sponsor Gold Sponsor Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsor Sponsoring Host