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< Back CNN Investigates: Impacts on North Carolina Curt Devine, Casey Tolan, Kyung Lah, Audrey Ash and Yahya Abou-Ghazala, CNN Mar 3, 2025 An interview with effected aid workers and the NCGHA. View the article in full at the link below https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/03/politics/trump-funding-cuts-usaid-nih-north-carolina-invs/index.html Previous Next

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

Applications are open for the 2026 - 2027 Emerging Leaders in Global Health Cohort A leadership program for North Carolina's next generation of global health changemakers. The North Carolina Emerging Leaders in Global Health cohort is a selective, year-long leadership development program designed to prepare the next generation of North Carolina's global health changemakers. Bringing together six undergraduate and graduate students from North Carolina universities, the program provides hands-on experience in leadership, advocacy, communication, and professional engagement. Through monthly virtual sessions, mentorship from professionals, experiential learning opportunities, and site visits to local organizations, the Emerging Leaders gain a deeper understanding of the state's unique global health ecosystem while developing the confidence and skills to become effective and professional communicators and advocates for global health. Download the Application What Emerging Leaders Can Expect The Emerging Leaders program is designed to be an active, hands-on leadership experience. Throughout the year, cohort members will meet virtually with Visiting Experts from across North Carolina's global health community, exploring topics including the evolution of North Carolina's global health sector, the business of global health, leadership through crisis, navigating careers in a post-USAID landscape, business development, and building public-private partnerships. These conversations are designed to give Emerging Leaders an inside look at the many pathways and perspectives that shape global health in North Carolina. Emerging Leaders will not simply attend these conversations, they will lead them. Each of the six cohort members will be responsible or preparing and facilitating one Visiting Expert session. This includes communicating directly with the guest speaker, developing discussion questions, preparing a short memo for the cohort, and facilitating the conversation. Additional skill-building throughout the year will focus on networking, communication, public speaking, advocacy, and professional presence. Cohort members will also participate in NCGHA events and field visits with organizations across North Carolina's global health ecosystem. The program culminates in the Emerging Leaders Showcase at NCGHA's Spring Event on April 7, 2027. Beginning in the fall, each Emerging Leader will start exploring the idea they want to share. In January, they will work one-on-one with the NCGHA Executive Director to develop their concept, followed by a writing workshop, dedicated writing time, in-person rehearsal, & individual coaching. Each Emerging Leader will ultimately deliver a memorized 5-8 minute presentation without notes or slides to an audience of approximately 150 global health professionals, sharing their perspective on an important issue and their vision for the future of global health. This is a competitive cohort and a significant professional commitment. Emerging Leaders are expected to attend all regular cohort meetings, with the ability to miss one meeting as long as it is not the meeting they are responsible for leading. Any missed training must be made up with their peers . All participants are expected to approach the program with the professionalism, preparation, and commitment they would bring to a job. In return, Emerging Leaders will have an opportunity to learn from accomplished professionals, build relationships across North Carolina's global health community, develop skills that will serve them throughout their careers, and take the stage to share their own vision. Application Requirements Applications close Friday, September 25 at 5:00 pm ET. Applicants must be a current undergraduate or graduate student studying global health or a related field, or with research interests relevant to global health or a related field, at a North Carolina University during the 2026-2027 academic year. To apply, email the following to Members@ncglobalhealth.org : Resume (pdf) 1-page Cover Letter (pdf) Answers to 4 supplemental questions (pdf ). Applications that do not include answers to all four questions will not be considered. Please answer all four questions on a single page (~500 word total), save as a pdf, and submit with your resume and cover letter in one email. What global health issue or question are you most curious about right now and why? Tell us about a time when you worked with people who had different perspectives, backgrounds, or areas of expertise than you. What did you learn from that experience? What do you hope to gain from this experience and what will you bring to the cohort? Imagine you have five minutes on stage in April 2027 to share one idea that you believe could change the future of global health. What would you talk about and why? In the body of the email, please indicate if you will be available to participate in the full cohort experience between October 2026 - April 2027, and attend all required events. A note about Al: We encourage all applicants to answer the supplemental questions on their own, avoiding the use of Al. Reviewers will be looking for authenticity and a unique voice over perfection in communication style. We want to get to know you, not your bot. No late applications will be considered. No out of state applicants will be considered. Apply today! Applications are due by September 25 at 5:00 pm ET Download the Application Program Timeline September 25 Applications due by 5:00 pm ET (no late applications will be accepted ) October 5 - 14 Finalist interviews conducted virtually October 16 Decisions are delivered via email October 21 @ 6:00 pm Onboarding (virtual) October 22, 20-minutes between 2:00 - 4:00 pm Optional attendance for part of the NCGHA Board Meeting October 28 @ 6:00 pm Regular cohort meeting + Visiting Expert #1 (virtual) October 30 @ 12:00 pm Virtual pre-conference networking training November 6, 8:30 am - 3:00 pm Required in-person attendance at NCGHA Fall Conference, NCCU, Durham November 9 - 20 In-person one-on-ones with Executive Director November 18 @ 6:00 pm Regular cohort meeting + Visiting Expert #2 (virtual) December 2 @ 6:00 pm Elevator Pitches + Visiting Expert #3 (virtual) January 4 - 14 Virtual one-on-ones with Executive Director January 20 @ 6:00 pm Regular cohort meeting + Visiting Expert #4 (virtual) February 3 @ 6:00 pm Regular cohort meeting + Visiting Expert #5 (virtual) February 17 @ 6:00 pm Regular cohort meeting + Visiting Expert #6 (virtual) March 3 @ 6:00 pm Writing Workshop (virtual) March 4 - 18 Independent writing of presentation March 19, time tbd *Required* in-person rehearsal at Duke March 20 - April 1 Independent time to memorize March 29 - April 1 Optional one-on-one virtual rehearsals April 2 Recommended in-person rehearsal at NC Biotech Center April 7, 8:30 am - 3:00 pm Emerging Leaders Showcase at NCGHA Spring Event, NC Biotech Center April, date tbd Cohort Lunch *Dates tbd Two in-person field trips to local global health organizations Apply today! Applications are due by September 25 at 5:00 pm ET Download the Application

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!

2025 Global Health Career Week Spend the week learning from experts about the job search process during four virtual sessions. Schedule and Registration Links Please feel free to register for all events, or individual events. Webinar: Expanding Your Global Health Horizons - Exploring New Sectors MONDAY March 17 12-1pm EST In lieu of recent events, global health professionals may be looking outside the traditional global health industry for opportunities. Hear from those who already made the leap and learn more about how you can too. JOIN US Webinar: Virtual First Impressions - Resumes, LinkedIn, Email TUESDAY March 18 12-1pm EST Hear from Recruiters and Talent Acquisition Experts as we explore the ins and outs of writing a resume that gets you through the Applicant Tracking System and still impresses the human on the other side. You'll also get an insider perspective on how to use LinkedIn and Email effectively and professionally. JOIN US Webinar: Interviewing from the Recruiter's Perspective WEDNESDAY March 19 12-1pm EST Learn from the professionals who are sitting on the other side of the table during a professional interview. Hear from the experts on how to show up to your interview prepared, confident, and authentically you. JOIN US Webinar: Career Trajectories – Stories from Global Health Professionals THURSDAY March 20 12-1pm EST Do you want to know how current professionals in global health went from student to expert? Join us as we speak with three incredible professionals who have worked for some of the industry's top employers. JOIN US Thank you to our sponsor

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 A Statement From the North Carolina Global Health Alliance on Recent Executive Orders Jan 28, 2025 The North Carolina Global Health Alliance Urges North Carolina's Congressional Delegation to Advocate for the Reversal of the Stop Work Order The North Carolina Global Health Alliance urges members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation to immediately advocate for the reversal of the State Department's recent Stop Work Order, which freezes all existing foreign assistance programming and pauses new aid, with limited exceptions. It is critical that policymakers act swiftly to reverse this decision. Read the North Carolina Global Health Alliance's full statement on this issue below. January 27, 2025 The North Carolina Global Health Alliance (NCGHA) expresses deep concerns regarding the State Department’s recently issued “Stop Work Order,” which freezes existing foreign assistance programming and pauses new aid, with very limited exceptions. This action follows the President’s Executive Order on Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid mandating a review of U.S. foreign assistance programs, yet the Stop Work Order goes beyond this mandate, jeopardizing the health, security, and prosperity of both our nation and North Carolina. The North Carolina Global Health Alliance supports efforts to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of foreign assistance programs. However, this important review must not come at the cost of interrupting critical ongoing initiatives. On behalf of the many North Carolinians dedicated to advancing U.S. foreign assistance efforts, the NCGHA urges North Carolina’s Congressional Delegation to take action to halt this order and advocate for the continuation of essential foreign assistance programs. The USAID-supported work happening here in North Carolina directly contributes to making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous and any interruption to funding and implementation puts the livelihoods of thousands of North Carolinians at risk. Economic Impact on North Carolina Foreign assistance programs, particularly those funded by USAID, significantly benefit North Carolina’s economy and communities. The 2022 Global Health Sector Economic Impact Report published by the NCGHA and RTI International, highlights how global health investments generate billions of dollars annually in economic activity for our state. The more than 900 global health institutions operating in North Carolina in 2021 sustained 170,000 jobs in our state across multiple sectors, and these institutions contributed $31.9 billion in total value added to North Carolina’s economy. According to data from USA Spending , North Carolina implementers have received the fourth-largest amount of USAID obligations nationwide, trailing only Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts. This almost $1 billion in USAID funding to North Carolina institutions has supported thousands of high-quality jobs across sectors, from research and innovation to health systems strengthening, positioning our state as a global leader in foreign assistance implementation. Risks of the Stop Work Order The critical work conducted by USAID-funded non-profits, universities, and businesses headquartered in our state serve to both mitigate threats to our national security and foster economic growth that benefits North Carolinians and Americans nationwide. The indiscriminate implementation of the Stop Work Order undermines these benefits and jeopardizes national security, economic stability, and government efficiency. Specifically: National Security Risks: Foreign assistance programs address root causes of instability, such as poverty, disease, and conflict. Pausing these initiatives creates a vacuum that strategic competitors can exploit, undermining U.S. influence and destabilizing regions vital to our interests. Economic Disruption: Halting foreign assistance programs disrupts funding streams to North Carolina-based institutions, leading to immediate job losses and economic instability. Restarting these programs later will incur higher costs and delays, compounding inefficiencies. Public Health Threats: Interrupting health programs risks the resurgence of diseases and the unchecked spread of infectious pathogens. This threatens global health security and, ultimately, the safety of Americans at home. Advancing American Strength and Prosperity USAID-funded programs are strategic investments that promote stability, expand markets for U.S. goods and services, and build goodwill abroad. North Carolinians engaged in this work take immense pride in representing American interests globally, serving as front-line diplomats who foster alliances, counter extremism, and advance health and prosperity. By ensuring the continuation of these programs, the United States strengthens its global leadership and reaffirms its commitment to security, economic growth, and humanitarian values—principles that resonate deeply with North Carolinians. Call to Action North Carolina’s leadership is critical in addressing this urgent matter. The NCGHA urges our Congressional Delegation to: Advocate for the immediate reversal of the Stop Work Order to prevent unnecessary disruptions to vital foreign assistance programs. Support efforts to establish a transparent and efficient review process that allows development institutions to demonstrate compliance with America First principles without undermining their ability to deliver impactful programming. Emphasize the critical role North Carolina implementers play in advancing national security, driving economic growth, and promoting global stability in your discussions with State Department and Congressional colleagues. Previous Next

Explore Resilience in the Global Health Ecosystem at this Year's North Carolina Global Health Conference! The North Carolina Global Health Alliance's 10th Annual Conference will take place on November 1, 2023 at NC State University’s McKimmon Center in Raleigh, NC. At this year's event, our global health community will come together to evaluate what it means to have Resilience in the Global Health Ecosystem. Through this theme, we will reflect on the unique components of our resilient global health ecosystem; both those that bolster our resiliency as individuals and also those that strengthen our resiliency as a community in the face of an ever-evolving global landscape. The last few years have forced us all to “pivot” time and time again, and this conference is an invitation to our global health community to take stock of all that has changed and evaluate what has worked that we should bring forward and what has not served us that we should leave behind. This conference is a highly curated intentional space for innovative thinkers to come together to address some of the world's biggest health issues in an inclusive, creative, and bold environment. It will be a space for learning, sharing, reflecting, and connecting, and will serve as just the first step for countless conversations that we will bring forward into the coming year. Speakers include leaders and visionaries from academia, biopharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, government, medicine, NGOs, and philanthropy. Our three sub-themes will allow us to dive deep into what makes our Global Health Ecosystem Resilient and how we can strengthen that resilience through the choices we make as individuals and as a community. Sub-themes: Expanding Global Health Partnerships : Global health has expanded to include a broader, more diverse range of partners. Who are the partners at this new global health table and how do we work together in this new environment? Who is not at the table that needs to be and how do we include them? Adapting the Way We Work : The workplace is different than it was five years ago – and so are we! How have we adapted to our new environment? What is working for us and how do we let go of what isn’t? Deepening Community Relationships : Localization faces countless challenges. How do we overcome them for a more equitable, collaborative, and sustainable approach to global health? Join us as we come together in-person and learn from one another's big triumphs and big hiccups - We can't wait to see you there! Click to Register! Keynote Speakers Angeli Achrekar, PhD, MPH Deputy Executive Director for the Programme Branch, UNAIDS Assistant Secretary-General, United Nations Congresswoman Deborah Ross United States Representative for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District Plenary Panel: What it Means to Have Resilience in the Global Health Ecosystem Gwen W. Collman, PhD Director, Office of Scientific Coordination, Planning and Evaluation (SCOPE), NIEHS Gavin Yamey, MD, MPH, MA Associate Director for Policy, Duke Global Health Institute Director, Center for Policy Impact in Global Health Sid Thakur, BVSc, MVSc, PhD Executive Director of Global One Health Academy Professor of Molecular Epidemiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine at NC State Christian Pitter, MD, MPH Director of Global Health and Population, FHI 360 Closing Remarks From 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 and one ticket of admission for someone to represent your organization. Exhibit Hall Pricing Member Organizations: $400 Non-Member Organizations: $600 Email executivedirector@ncglobalhealth.org to confirm your reservation. Registration Rates Tickets on sale now ! Member Professional: $210 Please purchase the “Professional” ticket and add your member discount code at checkout. If you do not have a member discount code, please email ExecutiveDirector@ncglobalhealth.org Non-Member Professional : $265 Member Student : $75 Member Universities: Appalachian State University, Duke University, NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill Non-Member Student : $100 Low-Income Country Professional : $30 Please purchase the “Professional” ticket and add your discount code at checkout. If you do not have a discount code, please email ExecutiveDirector@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 ExecutiveDirector@ncglobalhealth.org ! Register Now! Thank You to Our 2023 Conference Sponsors! Gold Level Sponsors Silver Level Sponsors Bronze Level Sponsors Sustaining Sponsors

< Back NCGHA Executive Director gives the 2026 Duke Global Health Institute Commencement Address May 8, 2026 Brianna Clarke-Schwelm was honored to speak to the graduating class of 2026 at the Duke Global Health Institute on May 8, 2026. "Your ambition is a gift." On May 8, 2026, NCGHA Executive Director Brianna Clarke-Schwelm had the honor of speaking to 35 Duke Master of Science in Global Health students and 21 graduating Duke Global Health Majors at their commencement ceremony at the Duke Global Health Institute. Reflecting on her own relationship with ambition, Brianna encouraged the graduates to pursue ambitions both big and small: "Progress on a global scale feels uncertain... but that doesn't mean we can't move forward. It means that progress will only happen if people like you are willing to lend your ambition not only to the big, lofty goals, but also to the small, human ones." Watch her full remarks here. Read about the Duke Global Health Institute class of 2026 here. Previous Next

Our Mission & Vision The North Carolina Global Health Alliance (NCGHA) is dedicated to advancing North Carolina as a center of global health. We work to foster collaboration and innovation in our state and region by acting as a connector and advocate on behalf of our global health community. Our Vision The North Carolina Global Health Alliance envisions a world in which collaboration and innovation lead to healthier communities. Our Mission The North Carolina Global Health Alliance works to advance North Carolina as an international center for research, training, education, program implementation, advocacy, and business dedicated to improving the health of the world's communities. We engage academic, governmental, non-profit, and for-profit organizations in this collaborative effort. Our Objectives Connect Inform Prepare Advocate

Membership Our members are committed to exploring innovative collaborations for the benefit of our world's health. We help organizations and individuals discover and create the connections they would have otherwise not established. The NCGHA is the catalyst for: Convening diverse institutions, disciplines, sectors, and priorities toward a common interest in global health. We create interactions, professional exchange, and new partnerships that would have otherwise not occurred. Convergence of many vertical stakeholders and resources to address the increasingly interconnected areas of global health. This convergence identifies unmet needs, creates synergy, and further engages new combinations of stakeholders to address these needs. Collaboration among individuals and diverse groups, working together to create increased understanding, enhanced approaches, unique ideas, and new opportunities. Member Opportunities Build Community and Facilitate Partnerships Networking & strategic partnership opportunities facilitated through NCGHA introductions Participation in topical round-table discussions with other industry leaders Invitation to national Global Health Networks Participatory events (e.g. member meeting, networking) Share Best Practices Annual Conference in the Fall Virtual opportunities to learn from experts Bi-weekly newsletter Member spotlights on NCGHA social media Opportunity to elevate events, research, and news to thousands of NCGHA newsletter recipients Prepare the Next Generation of Global Health Leaders Connection and access to qualified job-seekers In-person career fair Student field trips to local global health organizations Online Career center to post and view global health jobs NCGHA leadership visits to member universities Advocate For & Elevate the North Carolina Global Health Community Annual Award Ceremony In-person and virtual advocacy events Access to NCGHA’s neutral voice and resources Collaborative advocacy opportunities with other NCGHA member organizations Testimonials Leah M. Devlin, DDS, MPH Foundation Board Chair Centers for Disease Control and Prevention "The networking with like-minded professionals from globally focused businesses, nonprofits, and academic organizations provides enormous potential for innovative health investments and strategies that can change North Carolina and the world!" Anonymous Member of the Alliance & Annual Conference Attendee "The Alliance provides a crucial forum for local partners to connect -- as well as those from other locales. It's nice to take advantage of resources in the Research Triangle. You are doing incredible work, are an invaluable asset." Timothy Mastro Chief Science Officer FHI 360 "I love being a member of the Alliance because it serves as a connector of people and organizations in North Carolina dedicated to global health. The Triangle is a much richer place because of NCGHA." Member Perks Growth Career Center Event Discounts Community New Business & Partnerships Credibility Best Practices Advocacy Visibility Membership Dues The NCGHA is an institutional membership organization committed to making our membership as accessible as possible. Annual membership dues are based on the annual gross revenue of an organization or the number of students at a university. Students and professionals who are affiliated with one of our member organizations are considered to be members. University Membership Less than 1,000 students: $1,000 1,000 - 4,999 students: $3,000 5,000 - 9,999: $6,000 10,000+ students: $12,000 Nonprofit Membership For-profit Membership Less than $1 million: $350 $1-10 million: $1,250 $10-100 million: $2,500 $100-$500 million: $6,000 $500-$999 million: $12,000 $1B+: $20,000 Less than $1 million: $700 $1-10 million: $2,500 $10-100 million: $6,000 $100-$500 million: $12,000 $500-$999 million : $20,000 $1B+: $25,000 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.

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!