2023 North Carolina Global Health Conference Speakers November 1, 2023 McKimmon Center Keynote Speaker Featured Remarks From 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 Rachel Clad Director of Partnerships and Alliances, BroadReach Group Moderator Christian Pitter, MD, MPH Director of Global Health and Population, FHI 360 Closing Remarks From Concurrent Sessions Overcoming Structural Inequalities in the Global Health Workforce Roy Zwahlen, J.D. 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, MD, MPH 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 Mental Health in Global Health: Roundtable Discussions Emma Harver Deputy Director of Communications & Development, United States; CFK Africa Eddah Ogogo, MPH Clinical Health Services Lead, CFK Africa Victrine Oluoch Psychological Counselor, CFK Africa Luke Smith, MD Executive Director, El Futuro Brandon Knettel, PhD Associate Director, Duke Global Mental Health Program Assistant Professor Ismail Amiri Shekibula, MGHc Graduate Student, Duke University Kathy Walmer Executive Director, Family Health Ministries Moderator Emma Hughes BS Candidate, Human Biology & Science, NC State University Moderator Adapting Global Health to Meet a Changing Climate Reality Tracy Mitchell, MA, MS Director of Resilience and Climate Adaptation, RTI International Elizabeth McCormick Assistant Professor, UNC Charlotte PhD Candidate, NC State University Zachary Witkin, MPH Senior Growth & Partnerships Manager, YLabs Karen Setty, PhD Senior Manager, Research Translation, The Aquaya Institute Moderator 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, PhD Associate Dean for Global Health, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Moderator Expanding Products & Product Development in New Markets Dhiren Thakker, PhD Founding President & CEO; MedAditus Paul L. Domanico, PhD 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, PhD Distinguished Scientist & Director, Product Development and Introduction; FHI 360 Moderator TechTalks: Interactive Sessions on Technology & its Role in Global Health Erika Samoff, PhD, MPH HIV/STD Surveillance Manager, North Carolina Division of Public Health Michael Levy, MBA CEO, Digital Health Institute for Transformation (DHIT) Brittany Barreto, PhD Founder & Chief innovation Officer, FemHealth Insights Host, FemTech Focus Podcast Forbes Contributor Nancy Warren, MPH Program Manager, RTI Moderator Local is Global: Bringing Global Health Back to North Carolina! Nicolle Miller, MS, MPH, RD Interim Director and a Senior Project Lead for Public Sector & Systems on the North Carolina team; Partners In Health – United States Eve Puffer, PhD Director, Duke Global Mental Health Program; Duke Global Health Institute Associate Professor, Psychology & Neuroscience and Global Health; Duke University Julie Swann, PhD 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, PhD, MHS Director, Global Health & Population Research; FHI 360 Moderator Public Health & the People: The Engagement of Users in Systems & Solutions Felicia A. Browne, ScD, MPH Senior Research Social Epidemiologist, RTI International Solomon Ayehu, MD, MSc Master of International 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 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 5-Minute Lightning Talks: Global Health at a Glance Benjamin Mukumbya, MS Research Technician, Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology 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 Jessica Parzygnat PhD Candidate, NC State University Gayoung Lee MPH Candidate in Applied Epidemiology, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Lauren Enochs UNC Summer Fellow, IntraHealth International MPH Candidate MCFH, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health With a live musical performance from Diali Cissokho and Will Ridenour ! Thank you to our 2023 Conference Sponsors!

< 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

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.

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

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

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

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

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!

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

Our Rebrand Story Triangle Global Health Consortium, now North Carolina Global Health Alliance “The strength of the organization comes from the diversity and breadth of our membership, and as you can see we are a powerful and diverse group. The rebrand was conducted thoughtfully to honor our foundation and history, while ensuring our organization’s mission, values and connection to global health innovation. I'm very proud of who we are, and the direction we are heading." Dr. Andy Stringer Previous Chair of the Board of Directors PRESS RELEASE Triangle Global Health Consortium Announces New Name and Rebrand – North Carolina Global Health Alliance The Consortium will rebrand to the North Carolina Global Health Alliance to better align the organization’s name with its mission to advance the state of North Carolina as a center of global health. MAY 3, 2022 - Triangle Global Health Consortium, a nonprofit member organization dedicated to advancing global health in North Carolina, announced today that it is changing its name to North Carolina Global Health Alliance. The new name more accurately reflects the organization’s mission to advance the state as a center of global health by serving and partnering with global health organizations across North Carolina. The North Carolina Global Health Alliance was founded in 2009 by leaders from the University of North Carolina, Duke University, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Biotech Center, FHI 360, IntraHealth International, and RTI International to help elevate North Carolina as a center of global health by building collaborations, convening, amplifying and advocating on behalf of North Carolina’s global health organizations. The Alliance will release a new logo, website redesign, and updated social media presence that will all work with its growing membership, donor base, and other stakeholder groups and partners. “The strength of the organization comes from the diversity and breadth of our membership, and as you can see we are a powerful and diverse group. The rebrand was conducted thoughtfully to honor our foundation and history, while ensuring our organization’s mission, values and connection to global health innovation. I'm very proud of who we are, and the direction we are heading,” stated Dr. Andy Stringer, chair of the organization’s board of directors. “Our organization’s name has changed, but our goal to be a convener, amplifier and advocate for North Carolina-based global health organizations has only become stronger,” said Executive Director, André Anthony. Anthony noted the new logo showcases the organization’s future, showcasing a new icon with an embedded blue N and orange C for the state’s abbreviation. The new icon also symbolizes the organization’s continued dedication to innovation and collaboration in the global health sector. Visit www.ncglobalhealth.org to explore the new website, brand, and global health events. The Alliance is also on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook @NCGlobalHealth. About the North Carolina Global Health Alliance The mission of the North Carolina Global Health Alliance is 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, nonprofit and for-profit organizations in this collaborative effort.

< Back North Carolina News CBS17 Coverage of NCGHA Statements Keaton Eberly, CBS17 Feb 4, 2025 Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, Executive Director of the NCGHA, was featured on CBS17 highlighting the impacts of executive orders on North Carolina industry and employment as a result of USAID turmoil USAID turmoil: NC Global Health Alliance urge state lawmakers to save foreign aid programs https://www.cbs17.com/news/north-carolina-news/nc-health-leaders-stress-immediate-action-as-trump-administration-aims-to-shut-down-u-s-aid-agency/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=socialflow Previous Next

Staff & Board of Directors Staff Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, MPH Executive Director Brianna (she/her) comes to the North Carolina Global Health Alliance with fifteen years of non-profit experience in both global health and domestic public health. She began her career working in health clinics in rural Kenya, Honduras, and Panama, before moving to New York City, where she served as a fundraiser for The Hunger Project, an international NGO committed to ending global hunger and poverty through community-led, integrated approaches. Brianna moved to North Carolina to work at the NCDHHS' Office of Rural Health and is proud to serve the people of North Carolina. Board of Directors Gerald Bloomfield, MD, MPH Associate Director for Research, Duke Global Health Institute Chair, Board of Directors, Katie Bowler Young, MFA Senior Director of University Collaborations, RTI International Emily Evens, PhD, MPH Director of Applied Research, FHI 360 Secretary, Board of Directors Christopher LeGrand, MS CEO, BroadReach Treasurer, Board of Directors Tracey du Laney, PhD Vice President, Science and Technology Development, NC Biotech Tim Mastro, MD, DTM&H Principal, Mastro Global LLC Executive Committee Sid Thakur, BVSc, MVSc, PhD Professor and Executive Director, Global One Health Academy, NC State University Heather Vahdat, MPH Executive Director, Male Contraceptive Initiative