The panel was led by Elon faculty members Ifeoma Udeh, Titch Madzima, Sandra Darfour-Oduro, Sheila Otieno and Mussa Idris. Each speaker contributed unique perspectives shaped by their research, professional backgrounds, and personal experiences, offering attendees a multifaceted view of contemporary issues affecting African nations. Throughout the event, the panelists addressed a series of thought-provoking questions that guided the discussion. “Which issues in Africa have most influenced your research? allowing each speaker to reflect on the driving forces behind their academic work.

Healthcare, trade, culture and religion in African countries were the major focus of discussion. Panelists emphasized the importance of the African Continental Free Trade among African countries. They also acknowledged the surge in non-communicable diseases and discussed promoting health education, investing in healthcare, and expanding access to medical care in Africa.

Religion and culture were explored as a powerful social force, particularly in response to the question, “Can religion be leveraged as a tool for social and health promotion in Africa and how?” Panelists discussed how religious institutions often serve as trusted community hubs and can play a significant role in disseminating information, encouraging positive behavioral changes and fostering social cohesion.

Finally, the discussion concluded on an optimistic note with the question, “What gives you the most hope about Africa’s future?” Panelists pointed to many different things that gave them hope, but among them were the continent’s rapidly growing youth population, increasing innovation and expanding opportunities as key sources of hope. They emphasized the resilience and creativity of African communities, as well as the potential for continued growth and global influence. The event was moderated by Salome Onikolase and Mariama Jalloh.

In addition to the academic discussion, attendees were treated to a traditional Ghanaian meal, which added a meaningful cultural dimension to the event. Sharing food created a welcoming atmosphere and allowed participants to experience a tangible aspect of African culture, reinforcing the event’s goal of connection and understanding. The event was made possible through the support of Associate Provost for Academic Inclusive Excellence Naeemah Clark, Dean of Global Education Nick Gozick, the Isabella Cannon Global Education Center at Elon, and Beth DeFord, program assistant.

Baker presented on a documentary-dance film titled “Reclaiming Power: The Black Maternal Health Crisis.” She collaborated with Assistant Professor of Dance Keshia Gee and collected data from viewers before and after watching the documentary, which showed that the documentary promoted a hopeful view of Black birth in the United States.

“At a time when public health is being challenged in numerous ways, coming together with people in our field from around the world was exactly what I needed to affirm that the work I am doing matters and needs to continue,” Baker said.

Two public health majors, Emily Ecker ‘26 and Niagara Legette ‘26, also presented their work at the conference. Ecker received the Public Health Education and Health Promotion Student Award for her poster presentation.

“It meant a lot to be the only �þ��� recognized among master’s and doctoral students,” Ecker said. “For me, the award highlights how important community-engaged research is and the impact it can have when local voices are centered in public health work.”

This year, the department supported four additional public health majors in attending the conference, increasing their exposure to the significant research and practices shared. This was made possible through the generous contributions of alumni and parent donors to the department’s gift fund and Fair’s coordination. Jamari Heredia ‘27, Jenna Toms ‘26, Madalein Amoaka ‘26, and Tajallah Amirkhil ‘28 were selected through a competitive application process and received funding for travel, lodging and conference registration.

Elon’s participation in the APHA Conference demonstrates the Department of Public Health’s commitment to experiential learning opportunities for students, enabling them to engage in high-quality public health experiences in communities and settings beyond the college campus.

By continuing to participate in the APHA Conference, Elon underscores the department’s commitment to developing future leaders who address critical health challenges through research, collaboration, and community engagement. This also provides a crucial opportunity for growth and learning for the public health students who were able to attend the conference.

“I think attending the APHA conference gave students the opportunity to experience the numerous public health research that is being done in the USA and around the world,” Darfour-Oduro said. “It also gave students the opportunity to listen and engage with leading experts in Public Health.”