The School of Public Health welcomed members of the Board of Visitors (BOV) and Partner Advisory Board (PAB) November 19-20 for reflection, strategic discussion and inspiration. Dean Maureen Lichtveld opened the joint meeting by expressing deep appreciation for the boards’ continued leadership and commitment, noting that the past year has brought both significant challenges and meaningful progress across the school.
In her remarks, Dean Lichtveld highlighted the resilience and innovation demonstrated by faculty, staff and students. She pointed to advances in research, strengthened community partnerships, and new interdisciplinary collaborations that are helping shape the future of public health. She emphasized that the boards provide essential guidance that informs strategy and amplifies the school’s impact.
The agenda showcased the breadth of expertise represented across both boards. Members participated in committee discussions and joined scientific presentations on aging, artificial intelligence and precision public health. These topics are central to the school’s evolving research portfolio and to the future direction of the public health field. Strategic sessions also examined the federal landscape, the Plan for Pitt and opportunities for deeper integration within Pitt’s Health Sciences.
Both boards reaffirmed their missions: the Board of Visitors as an advisory group that helps assess educational objectives, guide strategic planning and strengthen external relationships, and the Partner Advisory Board as a network that connects the school with employers, practitioners and community stakeholders to reinforce curriculum relevance and enhance career readiness for students.
Throughout the day, members contributed thoughtful insights drawn from their wide-ranging professional backgrounds. Their engagement reflected a shared commitment to preparing graduates for a shifting workforce and advancing public health at the local, national and global levels.
The meeting concluded with the annual Alumni Awards Dinner, which celebrated the achievements and impact of Pitt Public Health graduates. The event provided a fitting end to a day focused on leadership, partnership and the vision guiding the school’s next chapter.
-Clare Collins