DLSPH Open: Intro to Public Health & Health Systems
September 8/2017
Dear colleagues,
Welcome to the 2017-18 Academic Year.
For the 450 students beginning their studies at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health (DLSPH) this fall, welcome to DLSPH Open, a bi-monthly message to our community that shares progress towards our shared vision, celebrates successes, and showcases our collective social impact.
Introduction to PHS on Sept. 5, 2017
In my welcome to Public Health Sciences presentation on September 5, I talked about how we are the largest school of public health in Canada and one of the most diverse and comprehensive schools of public health in the world that recently received accolades from a global ranking body. According to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (also referred to as the Shanghai Rankings), public health at the University of Toronto ranked fifth globally.
This honour is worth highlighting to incoming learners because our success and international reputation is built on a foundation of teamwork among our faculty, students and staff. To new students joining us this month, you are now part of a dynamic community of scholars, policy-makers, health practitioners and researchers who are engaged in initiatives that span the full range of public health and health systems.
International recognition is great, but being locally embedded in Toronto’s, Ontario’s and Canada’s public health and health-care system is critical to our shared success, and an important point of distinction of the School. In order to fulfill our vision to be the leading model for public health and health systems learning, research and service, we must work collaboratively with government, civil society, the public and private sectors, and community-based organizations. The city of Toronto is bustling global hub for all these sectors, providing students with unparalleled access and opportunities to learn, create and contribute.
As a dynamic Faculty that aims to engage communities, create sustainable healthcare and achieve social justice in health, it is crucial to have strong internal communications and organizational culture. Here are some communications tools that everyone should be aware of:
- DLSPH Blog — is a platform for me to offer my two cents on public health and health systems issues and social justice, often in partnership with faculty, researchers and supporters.
- DLSPH Student Blog — student- authored and learner-centred written reflections on topics and issues central to scholarship, research and future careers.
- DLSPH Bulletin — is a monthly newsletter that gives a high-level summary of news, upcoming events, awards and opportunities to get involved.
Together, these communications contribute to a comprehensive view of the School where everyone is informed of news, events, awards, honours and opportunities and I encourage everyone to engage with these tools, and participate in community-building opportunities as much as possible.
Wishing all of you a happy and productive semester,
Adalsteinn Brown
Interim Dean
Dalla Lana Chair in Public Health Policy
Dalla Lana School of Public Health