The 2023 Future Public Health Leaders Program cohort. Photo courtesy of the FPHLP.
I recently had the privilege of participating in a panel discussion on the vital role of philanthropy in public health and associated career trajectories. The panel, which also featured Saloni Patel of the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Tam Ngo of the Lucille Packard Foundation, was part of the University of Michigan School of Public Health’s Future of Public Health Leaders Program (FPHLP). This 10-week residential summer program aims to increase the diversity of the public health workforce and foster a commitment to reducing health disparities — goals that align with the values of public health philanthropy.
The Crucial Role of Foundations in Public Health
Foundations are instrumental in shaping public health initiatives and expanding health equity. They can act as incubators for innovative solutions by leveraging resources, connections, and financial capital to tackle problems that government entities may be unable to address may be unable to address, often due to budgetary or political constraints. Foundations have the flexibility to experiment with programs and support research that may lack traditional funding, driving progress and fostering collaborations among diverse stakeholders.
These characteristics position foundations well to partner with communities that have been historically and systematically oppressed. Often, these communities know what needs to be done but can’t access the resources to implement their solutions. Foundations can provide the necessary backing to address community-specific challenges effectively and work alongside communities in developing upstream solutions to influence long-term, systemic change.
The Modernized Anti-Racist Data Ecosystems (MADE) for Health Justice initiative exemplifies this approach by providing community-based organizations support and resources to develop data ecosystems that center anti-racism, equity, justice, and community power; embrace the full diversity of the social determinants of health; and ultimately drive just and equity-centered decision-making. By being nimble, adaptable, and willing to take risks, foundations can catalyze change, address systemic barriers, and pilot innovative strategies to transform public health policies and practices.
Advice for Aspiring Public Health Professionals
For undergraduates considering a career in public health, particularly in the philanthropic sector, I and the other panelists offered this advice:
1. Self-Reflection: Start by looking inward. Understand what inspires and fulfills you. Think about how you want to show up in your work and life. Knowing your values and passions is essential in finding a career path that is both satisfying and impactful.
2. Skill Development: Beyond public health expertise, focus on building cross-cutting strategic skills such as project management, budget management, risk identification, and change management. These skills are critical in executing successful public health initiatives and ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and in line with objectives.
3. Continuous Learning: Public health is dynamic, and staying informed is imperative. Pursue further education and certifications, such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), or change management certifications. This ongoing learning will help you remain adaptable and effective in addressing ever-evolving public health challenges.
4. Networking and Mentorship: Engage with professionals in the field through internships, conferences, and social media platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentors who can guide and support you as you navigate your career path.
5. Passion and Persistence: Public health is a challenging field that requires dedication and resilience. Stay passionate about your goals, be persistent to overcome obstacles, and remain true to yourself.
As we continue to face complex public health issues, the role of philanthropy will remain crucial in driving innovation and supporting underserved communities. For those considering a career in this field, remember that it’s not just about what you know, but how you can leverage your skills and passions to make a meaningful impact. Together, we can work toward a future where health equity and justice are a reality.
