By: Todd Faubion, faculty director for undergraduate programs, Department of Global Health and Noura Youssoufa, academic advisor, MPH and undergraduate programs, Department of Global Health

This summer, North American beaches were the top destination for US travelers. And it’s easy to understand why. Not only does the ocean offer a fun respite from the summer heat (and pandemic lockdown), research shows that spending time at the coast can positively impact physical and mental health.

Founded in 2007, the University of Washington Department of Global Health is committed to preparing the next generation of global health leaders through world-class education and training programs focused on research, evidence-based practice, and policy development. Our alumni work in more than 25 countries across five continents to improve health and eliminate health disparities around the world. We’re proud that our graduates go on to lead ministries of health, direct non-profit organizations, run research labs, develop medical innovations, hold public office, and more.

The University of Washington Department of Global Health (DGH) and Division of Cardiology in the Department of Medicine announced the formation of a new joint Global Cardiovascular Health Program (GCHP) dedicated to global cardiovascular disease prevention and care.

Dr. Chris Longenecker will serve as the inaugural program director, beginning November 1, 2021. He will hold faculty appointments in both global health and cardiology.

Each year, an open group from within the University of Washington Health Sciences selects a Common Book that serves as a platform for students from across health professions to learn together on topics of common importance. Throughout the school year students have the opportunity to participate in a series of lectures, interactive discussions, advocacy efforts, and seminars focused on the major topic(s) of the book.

Over the last two decades, Beatriz Thomé, MD, MPH, PhD, has worked as a pediatrician, research manager, university lecturer, and monitoring & evaluation specialist in countries as geographically disperse as Mozambique, Switzerland, and her native Brazil. When asked what’s the thread that ties together her wide-ranging career in public health, global health, and medicine, Thomé responds with a simple question: How can I contribute?