A Message from Dean Eric Boerwinkle, PhD: 2026 Outlook on Public Health

As we look forward to the year ahead, I invite and encourage you to renew your commitment and passion for the field of public health, and to not lose sight of the importance of our work.

Reflecting on 2025, we can clearly mark advancements made and recognize the impact of our collective efforts. Each and every year there are challenges and barriers to overcome; we can anticipate that 2026 will be no different. That is why I am writing this message, declaring my optimism and faith in the public and population health workforce and research. I am confident that we can leverage creative solutions to address public health threats, meet future challenges as learning opportunities, and remain fully committed to the science.

I remain steadfast and assured in the abilities of our public health researchers and practitioners to lead with purpose, innovation, and resilience. Public health has never been more vital, and your work—whether in the classroom, the laboratory, the field, or in communities—continues to shape healthier, brighter futures for all.

I encourage you to remain positive and forward-looking as we anticipate the year ahead and the evolving future of public health. See challenges as new opportunities and leverage the strong and supportive team of professionals around you to leverage those opportunities. Together, through collaboration, curiosity, and service, we will continue to educate the next generation of leaders, drive meaningful research, and make a lasting difference in the public’s health.

I appreciate your dedication and shared commitment to this vision. I wish you and your loved ones a healthy and hopeful New Year, and I look forward to all we will accomplish together.

Stay healthy, stay informed,

Dean Eric Boerwinkle, PhD

M. David Low Chair in Public Health & Kozmetsky Family Chair In Human Genetics