Agents of Change: Spartans are Built for the Challenge

When I think about what it means to be a public health change agent, I envision a ripple effect—a single action creating waves that extend far beyond what the eye can see. That’s the power of public health: small, intentional efforts that lead to meaningful, systemic change. As a proud Spartan and a graduate of the Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Michigan State University, I carry this belief with me in every facet of my work.

From Montana to Ghana: What Drew Me to Rural Public Health

As a respiratory therapist, Master of Public Health (MPH) student Shelly Bundy witnessed health disparities affect communities while working with the most vulnerable during the height of COVID-19. She writes about what led her to pursue an MPH, why she chose the Rural Public Health concentration, and what she learned during the Public Health in Ghana program.  

USA TODAY Recognizes Mona Hanna in "2025 Women of the Year"

As Rx Kids, a cash prescription program for expecting and new parents, turns one, its co-creator Mona Hanna, MD, Rx Kids director, associate dean for public health, and Charles Stewart Mott Endowed Professor of Public Health, has been recognized as one of USA TODAY’s 2025 Women of the Year. The list honors women who have made a significant impact in their communities and across the country.

Darline El Reda Appointed Director of the Master of Public Health Program and Associate Chair of Education

The Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health is home to the online CEPH-accredited Master of Public Health Program within the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Launched in 2006, the program trains a public health workforce dedicated to attaining the highest level of health for all individuals. As public health evolves, so does our leadership.  

Breaking Cycles and Rebuilding Systems: My Path to Public Health

My path to public health has been anything but linear.

My childhood was devoid of safety or guidance, and I struggled to navigate a chaotic home life. I learned early on that suffering, trauma, and abuse do not discriminate by income bracket—it does not matter how many doors are open if the people meant to guide you refuse to do so.

Students and Alumni Honored as Delta Omega Inductees

The Epsilon Pi Chapter of the Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health at Michigan State University is pleased to announce the College of Human Medicine’s spring 2025 inductees. Each year, Delta Omega elects new students, faculty, alumni, and honorary members based on high academic standards and outstanding performance in scholarship, teaching, research, and community service. Election of membership in Delta Omega is intended to recognize merit and encourage further excellence in and devotion to public health work.

First Flint Spartan Scholar Looks Back

In 2021, Katlin Harwood-Schelb, MPH ’24, decided to take a chance. After hearing about a brand-new scholarship opportunity from MSU’s Master of Public Health (MPH) offering students living or working in Flint full financial support to pursue an MPH degree, she decided to apply.

“I wasn’t sure if I would get it, but you miss all of the opportunities you don’t take,” she said. “And I was very, very happy when I found out I got it.”

Rx Kids Celebrates Program's First Birthday

More than 1,300 babies and families in the city of Flint have received nearly $6 million in cash prescriptions since Rx Kids launched in January 2024. A birthday bash complete with cupcakes, coloring pages, and other birthday fun, was held Jan. 29 at the Flint Children’s Museum for 100 guests.

Let’s Give Michigan Families an Extra Hug with Cash Prescriptions

On my first day at MSU, as a student intern, I was greeted with one of the most memorable hugs of my lifetime. I was to work directly under Dr. Mona Hanna, a nationally recognized leader and award-winning pediatrician most known for her role in uncovering the Flint Water Crisis; it was a dream opportunity for any 20-year-old public health student, and I was a ball of nerves. As soon as Dr. Mona walked into the room, my worries evaporated as she threw open her arms and gave me a bear hug. “I’m a hugger,” she said.

Department Difference Makers Awards

The Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health Awards Committee is proud to announce the recipients of the Difference Makers Awards. These awards recognize the hard work of faculty members, staff members, and community partners. 

MSU Appoint Faculty to Lead Expanded Public Health Concentrations

To address the rural public health concerns and train the next generation of public health professionals on how to effectively use health data and improve health outcomes in a community, the Michigan State University Master of Public Health (MPH) Program in the College of Human Medicine has expanded the roles of two MPH assistant professors.