Letter from KPHA President Ruaa Hassaballa-Muhammad, MPH, MA

February 11, 2024

Dear Kansas Public Health Association Members,

I trust this message finds you in good health and prepared for a fulfilling year ahead. As we step into 2024, I’m eager to share some key updates and set the stage for what looks to be a significant and impactful year for the Kansas Public Health Association (KPHA).

Save the Date: KPHA Conference
September 12-13, 2024, at KU Edwards, Overland Park, KS

Mark your calendars! Our KPHA annual conference is scheduled to take place on September 12-13, 2024, at KU Edwards in Overland Park, Kansas. Our dedicated Conference Co-chairs, Shirley Orr and Tanya Honderick, have already begun crafting an outstanding program that promises to enrich your knowledge, foster collaboration, and inspire positive change as we work to rebuild the public health system in Kansas.

Strategic Priorities for 2024

This year, KPHA has outlined five key strategic priorities that will guide our efforts and initiatives:

a) Capacity Building & Training: Strengthening the skills and knowledge base of our members to better tackle public health challenges.
b) Strengthening the Public Health Infrastructure: Working towards building a robust and resilient public health system in Kansas.
c) Policy Advocacy: Advocating for policies that promote the health and well-being of our communities.
d) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ensuring that our organization and public health efforts reflect the diverse needs and perspectives of the communities we serve.
e) Membership Engagement and Retention: Fostering a sense of community and engagement among our members to ensure a vibrant and active association.

We believe that by focusing on these priorities, we can make meaningful contributions to public health in Kansas and beyond.

2023 Annual Report and Acknowledgments

The 2023 Annual Report highlights the significant achievements and milestones of KPHA over the past year. I want to express my sincere gratitude to Christi Wells for her exemplary leadership as KPHA President in 2023. Her dedication and hard work have been instrumental in shaping the success of our association, including an update to KPHA bylaws. Also, a big shoutout to our KPHA Board of Directors for their dedication to improving the health of Kansans.

Time for Public Health Advocacy

As we look forward to the year ahead, it is important to acknowledge the challenges we face, particularly in the realm of public health legislation. Together, we must stand united against anti-public health measures and advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of our communities. Let us approach these challenges with determination, resilience, and a shared commitment to the principles of public health.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Kansas Public Health Association. I am confident that, together, we will make 2024 a year of positive impact and progress for public health in Kansas.

Best,

Ruaa Hassaballa-Muhammad, MPH, MA
President
Kansas Public Health Association