Dear Alumni, Faculty, and Staff,
As spring comes to a close and summer quickly approaches, I'm reminded of the vital role that access to clean water plays in promoting global health and well-being. It's a sobering reality that most of the world's population struggles with water insecurity, and an estimated 50% of wells in developing nations are no longer functional.
This issue hits close to home for us at the School of Public Health, as our research in wastewater epidemiology and other water-related studies underscores the critical importance of clean water access. It's not just a matter of hydration; contaminated water sources can spread diseases and perpetuate cycles of poor health, especially in vulnerable communities.
Our mission as public health professionals extends far beyond the confines of a healthcare system. It's about understanding communities' unique needs and challenges and working collaboratively to develop sustainable solutions. Just as we approach community health initiatives, our efforts in the global arena must be centered around empowering local populations and respecting their cultural contexts.
I invite you to consider how your expertise and passion could contribute to this vital effort. Whether through research, program development, or direct service, we each have a role in ensuring that clean water is a reality for all.
As we approach summer in the coming weeks, let's renew our commitment to environmental stewardship and global health equity. Together, we can create a world where access to clean water is not a privilege but a fundamental human right.
Sincerely,
Warm regards,
Dr. Adam L. Aréchiga, PsyD, DrPH
Dean, School of Public Health