Message from the Dean

DEAN’S MESSAGE

As we approach 2022, I catch myself reflecting on the growth of Stempel College since I first began my tenure as dean.

I came to Stempel College six years ago because I saw potential. When I met with the students, I saw determination. When I spoke with the faculty, I saw commitment. And when I learned about the impactful work the Stempel College community is doing and wants to do, I was sold. I often say that Stempel College was a diamond in the rough and, if cut at the right angles, it would shine. And shine it has.

In just five years, Stempel College has quadrupled its research funding, opening doors for our researchers to find solutions to some of the world’s most pressing public health challenges. Our students are graduating and landing positions at top agencies, academia, non-profits, for-profits and tech companies. As one of the top 50 colleges of public health among public universities, we are empowering our faculty and students to push the limits of science to make discoveries that positively impact communities worldwide.

Innovative ideas help shape the future. I invite you to explore this year’s Impact Report, highlighting our faculty and staff’s extraordinary work in helping to take public health to the next level. I am proud of our impact and know that it’s only the beginning of what is possible here at Stempel College.

This pandemic has caused so much uncertainty. But it’s clear – now more than ever – how critical it is to educate, train and empower future public health professionals to meet the needs of communities in the United States and abroad. I want to personally thank deans and program directors of public health from across the nation and the world for coming together in this unprecedented time. Through connecting and sharing information, we are helping give students the best possible college experience and the tools needed to build a future that serves the greater good.

Dr. Tomás R. Guilarte Dean, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work Professor, Department of Environmental Health Sciences Professor, Cognitive Neuroscience & Imaging Director, Brain, Behavior & Environment Member, Biomolecular Sciences Institute