School of Public Health students selected as liaisons to the American Public Health Association
Two West Virginia University students will have the opportunity to hone their leadership skills and grow their professional networks as they represent WVU in their newly-appointed roles with the American Public Health Association, a professional association with approximately 25,000 members who work in every discipline of public health across the world.
Cassie Bambrick, an undergraduate pursuing a B.S. in public health, and Allison McCracken, a graduate student pursuing an MPH in Health Policy, Management and Leadership, have been selected to represent the School of Public Health as Campus Liaisons to the APHA Student Assembly.
As Campus Liaisons, they’ll play an integral role in expanding awareness of the work that the APHA does throughout the nation – including its investment in developing future public health leaders and providing opportunities for professional and personal development. They will be expected to maintain an active committee membership, disseminate APHA information and conduct public health activities and events throughout the year.
Bambrick recognizes that serving as a Campus Liaison during a pandemic may present a unique opportunity when it comes to some of their activities.
“I think it will be a challenge to fulfill some of our responsibilities digitally, but I consider it a learning opportunity to problem-solve and become savvier with technology,” she said. “I'm looking forward to connecting and working with everyone this year.”
She also acknowledges the value this will add to her experience as a public health student.
“This will encourage me to be more involved in my role as a future public health professional,” Bambrick said. “I also see this as a networking opportunity, as there are ways for liaisons from all over the country to connect. And, this is clearly a great resume booster that I can add when applying for graduate school.”
McCracken expects her new role with the organization to affirm her decision to pursue public health.
“Since I began my journey in public health at WVU, my perspective about what public health could be and should be has been reshaped – primarily thanks to each one of my professors, who are always inspiring and enthusiastic,” she said. “Their guidance has helped ensure that public health is the right fit for my passion and goals, and this opportunity will no doubt help solidify that.”
“I’m grateful that Cassie and Allison have been given this opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, connect with the national organization on a deeper level and contribute to the future of public health,” Scot McIntosh, director of career development and student success. “It’s no surprise that both have stepped up to take on these leadership roles – like all Mountaineers, they are always finding ways to ‘go first’ in all that they do, especially when it comes to living out their shared passion for public health.”
-WVU-
nl/09/04/20
CONTACT: Nikky Luna, Director of Marketing and Communications
School of Public Health
304-293-1699; nikky.luna@hsc.wvu.edu