USF College of Public Health Monday Letter, April 27

Features

On the 20th anniversary of the National Board of Public Health Examiners: It is long past time we became a profession

Since the first Certified in Public Health (CPH) exam was offered in 2008, more than 14 000 people have earned a CPH, including those with and without public health degrees from all over the world.

Global Virus Network meeting advances a science-driven agenda for pandemic preparedness

World-leading virologists highlight advances in antiviral therapeutics, artificial intelligence, immunology and global surveillance shaping how future pandemics may be detected and controlled.

USF’s 70 years of shaping Tampa Bay’s economy and workforce

For 70 years, USF has helped shape Tampa Bay’s economy and workforce—driving innovation, developing talent and fueling growth across the region. Today, USF generates nearly $7 billion annually in Tampa Bay, serving as a powerful engine for opportunity and a pipeline connecting students, research and industry.

Research

USF study emphasizes role of workplace information during a health crisis

During a public health emergency, who do people trust to deliver accurate, life-saving information – politicians, the press, the government?

USF ranks among top 20 public universities for new patents in 2025

USF has reaffirmed its position as one of the nation’s most innovative research institutions, earning a place among the top 20 public universities for producing U.S. utility patents, according to annual rankings released today by the National Academy of Inventors.

Accolades

COPH’s Dr. Judith Rijnhart receives Women in Leadership & Philanthropy health award

Dr. Judith Rijnhart has been honored with the 2026 Women in Leadership & Philanthropy (WLP) Valerie D. Riddle, MD Award in Health. With an interdisciplinary background spanning nursing, prevention and public health, and epidemiology, her research focuses on the mechanisms contributing to dementia and late-life cognitive decline.

COPH community shows out at 2026 USF Health Student Awards Ceremony

Students, faculty, staff and programs from the COPH were among those recognized for their leadership, service and impact during the 2026 USF Health Student Awards Ceremony, held April 22 at the Marshall Student Center.

Grads Made Good

A dean with a public health prescription

For COPH alum Brandon Censon, his early work in health care practice and community settings sparked a lasting commitment to public health and shaped the trajectory of his work.

Take Note

Featured Media

Big Biology Podcast: Ep 147: The Genetics of Vice (with Kathryn Paige Harden)

Big Biology is in the top 20 most rapidly growing science podcasts on Substack. A recent episode “The Genetics of Vice” features COPH’s Dr. Marty Martin and co-host Dr. Cameron Ghalambor in conversation with Dr. Kathryn Paige Harden, professor of psychology at University of Texas at Austin and author of Original Sin.

Together, they explore what genetics can—and can’t—tell us about human behavior, unpacking complex questions around morality, blame and forgiveness.

View all COPH videos

Upcoming Events

Harm Reduction Event with Idea Exchange Tampa

Thursday, April 30

Community Health Sciences Graduation Celebration

Monday, May 4

APHL 2026 Annual Conference

May 4-7

In Your Neighborhood: Baltimore

Tuesday, May 5

COPH Master's Degree Graduation Ceremony Thursday, May 7