A note from Dean Paula Song

In public health, we’re happiest when our work prevents a crisis from happening. But when the worst does happen, public health experts — with their analytic prowess, fierce advocacy and determination — are who you want in your corner.

When the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio upended life for her community, Misti Allison ’11 MPH wasn’t even working in public health. But in the face of uncertainty and fear surrounding her community, she stepped forward. Drawing on the foundation she built as a student at Ohio State’s College of Public Health, she became a trusted voice for residents seeking answers, accountability and hope.

What stands out most to me is not only Misti’s courage, but her compassion. She reminds us that public health leadership is not confined to laboratories, classrooms or government offices. It happens in living rooms, town halls and communities facing unimaginable challenges. It requires empathy, persistence and a deep commitment to service.

Misti’s advocacy reflects the very best of our college and our profession and I hope you will enjoy reading her story as much as I did.

Among the other highlights in this issue:

• A glimpse into the work of Assistant Professor Arbor Quist, who investigates how floods, oil spills and chemical exposures leave lasting imprints on health.
• A reminder of the breadth of possibility for those with a public health degree.
• A look back at outgoing Biostatistics Chair Kellie Archer’s remarkable decade of leadership.

As always, thank you for being part of our Ohio State public health community. As I look forward to wrapping up my first full year as dean this July, I can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be.

Paula