National Public Health Week 2025

Steps Plus: Hofstra Fitness and Health Challenge 2025

In recognition of Exercise is Medicine Month in Spring 2025 and National Public Health Week in April 2025 (and the collaborative advocacy efforts exercise and public health professionals conduct in promoting active lifestyles for better health) the Exercise is Medicine on Hofstra Campus pre-professional club and the Future Healthcare Leaders (undergraduate Exercise Physiology and graduate Health Administration program student clubs) will be sponsoring the Steps Plus: Hofstra Fitness and Health Challenge. This is a team competition from Thursday, April 1 to Friday, April 11, 2025. Teams of 2-5 people including current undergraduate or graduate students, faculty and staff are invited to participate. The goal of the challenge is to accumulate as many steps as possible each day throughout the two weeks (a team average for each day will be recorded). In addition to steps acquired through walking, jogging, and other activities throughout the day, steps will be 'awarded' for time spent participating in mental health promotion activities and for completing health challenges posted daily on the Steps Plus Canvas page. Gift prizes of $300, $200, and $100 will be awarded to the teams finishing 1st, 2nd, and 3rd! The sign-up site will be available soon (ALL team members must sign up individually). This event is FREE but we would request each person participating donate a non-perishable food item for donation to the Hofstra University Pride Pantry located in the Hofstra Dome. Please direct any questions to Dr. Katie Sell at Katie.Sell@hofstra.edu.

To sign up, please go to: hofstra.edu/stepsplus (or https://hofstra.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5dpztcTLAxE9A4S). ALL team members must sign up individually. This event is FREE but we would request each person participating donate a non-perishable food item for donation to the Hofstra University Pride Pantry located in the Hofstra Dome. Please direct any questions to Dr. Katie Sell at Katie.Sell@hofstra.edu.

Saturday, April 5, 2025
Community Baby Shower and Family Resource Fair 
11am-2pm
Student Center Multipurpose Room 101
Hofstra University

Community members who are pregnant or parenting infants will be celebrated with food, games, and gifts. Local organizations who offer services and support for families will present information and resources.

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Sunday, April 6, 2025
SOPHA 5K 
8:30 a.m.-1p.m.
Hofstra Fitness Center
Hofstra University

Join us for our 5K fun run/walk on April 6, 2025. Registration will begin at 8:30AM at the Hofstra Fitness Center. The cost for registration is to provide a donated non-perishable item to the Hofstra Food Pantry. This event is sponsored by the Society of Public Health Advocates graduate student organization.

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Monday, April 7, 2025
Gift of Life Registry Table 
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Student Center Atrium
Hofstra University

Stop by our Gift of Life Registry table to learn how you can make a lifesaving difference! The Gift of Life Marrow Registry helps patients battling leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood disorders find matching donors for stem cell and bone marrow transplants.

By joining the registry, you have the potential to save a life. It’s quick, easy, and only takes a simple cheek swab. Visit our table to get more information, ask questions, and take the first step toward becoming a hero for someone in need.

Your generosity could be the gift that gives someone a second chance at life!

No registration required!

Monday, April 7, 2025
Vinyasa Yoga Flow for All, with Keryn Hing-Avery 
1-2:25 p.m.
Hofstra Fitness Center/Aerobics Studio
Hofstra University 

This class is the perfect kickstart to your week! In this invigorating class, participants will flow through dynamic sequences that harmonize breath with movement, leaving you refreshed and centered. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just beginning your journey, this inclusive environment invites both students and faculty to connect, rejuvenate, and cultivate inner strength.

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Limited to 20 people

Monday, April 7, 2025
CPR/AED/Narcan Training 
1-2:25 p.m.
Hofstra Dome, 2nd Floor 
Hofstra University

Participants will learn to recognize life-threatening situations and receive certification in CPR/AED and choking skills through the Emergency Care and Safety Institute (valid for two years). Additionally, students will be trained to identify opioid overdoses and administer Narcan. Each participant will receive a Narcan kit, and certification will be provided by the NYS Opioid Overdose Prevention Program.

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Limited to 20 people

Monday, April 7, 2025
Student Film Competition 
1-2:25 p.m.
Monroe Lecture Center Theater
Hofstra University

Teams of students from across Hofstra University compete for best short video, addressing the 2025 theme: “It starts here. Public health starts with each of us making a difference in our homes and communities.” A professional panel of judges will award prizes to the winning videos. For more information, contact Amy Roberts, Associate Professor, Dept. of Physician Assistant Studies, at Amy.L.Roberts@hofstra.edu

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Monday, April 7, 2025
Heart to Heart: My Journey to Becoming a Cardiovascular Physician 
4:30-6:20 p.m.
Student Center Greenhouse
Hofstra University

We invite you to an engaging and heartfelt conversation with Hofstra alumnus Dr. Frank Amico, Jr., BSCH ’06, DO. He will share his inspiring journey—both personal and professional—highlighting his experiences of perseverance and resilience while navigating the health care system as both a patient and a practitioner.

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Monday, April 7, 2025
MHA Alumni Association Event: Health Equity Starts Here: Optimizing Health for All
6:30-8:20 p.m.
Student Center Theater
Hofstra University

Join the MHA Alumni Association for an inspiring event focused on health equity and optimizing healthcare for all. This event will feature meaningful discussions, expert insights, and opportunities to drive positive change in public health.

Moderator:  Andrea Ault-Brutus, PhD, Special Assistant Professor of Community Health, Hofstra University

Panelists:

• Kenya V. Beard EdD, RN, AGACNP-BC, ANEF, FAAN, Dean and Chief Academic Officer, Professor, School of Nursing, Mercy University, 2012 Macy Faculty Scholar
• Austin F. Cheng, Esq., Chief Executive Officer, Gramercy Surgery Center
• Jonnel Doris, Chief Executive Officer, StartCare
• Michael Goldberg, Founder and CEO, Walk alongside Leader (Hofstra Alum)

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Monday, April 7, 2025
SHS Alumni Association Dessert and Networking Session 
8:30-10 p.m.
Student Center Theater Lobby and Rosalind’s Garden 
Hofstra University

Join us for the School of Health Sciences’ inaugural Alumni Association networking reception! This special event offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow alumni from across our school's diverse departments - Population Health, Allied Health and Kinesiology, Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, and Counseling and Mental Health Professions. 
Meet and mingle with fellow graduates, connect with industry professionals, and engage with the SHS Alumni Association E-Board as we celebrate our growing community. Whether you're looking to build professional relationships, learn about career pathways and opportunities, or simply catch up with old friends, this reception is the perfect setting.

Join us immediately following the MHA Alumni Association event—we can't wait to see you there!

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Coffee and Career Panel
9-10 a.m.
Student Center Plaza Room 127
Hofstra University 

Moderated by Martine Hackett, PhD (Hofstra University)

Panelists:

1. Megan Diamond, MPH (WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence)
2. Janani Iyer, PhD (Absci) • Perpetual Tamakloe, MPH (Merck Pharmaceuticals)
3. Stephanie Tuminello, PhD MPH (Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai)
4. Gretchen Van Wye, PhD (NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene)
5. Perpetual Tamakloe, MPH (Merck Pharmaceuticals)

This event is a standalone event of the 11th annual New York City Epidemiology Forum (NYCEF). The event will be co-sponsored by the Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, the Hofstra School of Health Sciences, and the Master of Public Health Graduate Program in the School of Health Sciences. The conference includes oral presentations, posters, and discussion sessions and is expected to lead to new collaborative activities, such as networks with shared resources and joint educational programs.

For the past 11 years, NYCEF has provided a vibrant forum for regular contact and exchanges between epidemiologists working in academic and other institutions in the New York City/tri-state area, with a special focus on junior researchers, including junior faculty, postdocs, fellows, and students. NYCEF fosters increased awareness about research conducted across institutions. It provides opportunities for researchers to present their work, with the overall goals of promoting bilateral or multisite collaborative projects and enhancing career opportunities for junior investigators. For more information about the forum, please visit: https://www.hofstra.edu/health-sciences/nycef.html

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Keynote Address: Michael Dowling, President and CEO, Northwell Health 
3:30 p.m.-4 p.m.
Student Center Theater
Hofstra University

Healthcare 2025: Navigating Challenges, Seizing Opportunities 
Introduction by Rebecca Schwartz, PhD (Northwell Health)

Please join us for the keynote speaker of the 11th annual New York City Epidemiology Forum (NYCEF). The event will be co-sponsored by the Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, the Hofstra School of Health Sciences, and the Master of Public Health Graduate Program in the School of Health Sciences. The conference includes oral presentations, posters, and discussion sessions and is expected to lead to new collaborative activities, such as networks with shared resources and joint educational programs.

For the past 11 years, NYCEF has provided a vibrant forum for regular contact and exchanges between epidemiologists working in academic and other institutions in the New York City/tri-state area, with a special focus on junior researchers, including junior faculty, postdocs, fellows, and students. NYCEF fosters increased awareness about research conducted across institutions. It provides opportunities for researchers to present their work, with the overall goals of promoting bilateral or multisite collaborative projects and enhancing career opportunities for junior investigators. For more information about the forum, please visit: https://www.hofstra.edu/health-sciences/nycef.html

RSVP

Tuesday, April 8, 2025
11th annual New York City Epidemiology Forum (NYCEF) 
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Student Center Theater
Hofstra University

Please join us for the 11th annual New York City Epidemiology Forum (NYCEF). The event will be co-sponsored by the Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, the Hofstra School of Health Sciences, and the Master of Public Health Graduate Program in the School of Health Sciences. The conference includes oral presentations, posters, and discussion sessions and is expected to lead to new collaborative activities, such as networks with shared resources and joint educational programs.

For the past 11 years, NYCEF has provided a vibrant forum for regular contact and exchanges between epidemiologists working in academic and other institutions in the New York City/tri-state area, with a special focus on junior researchers, including junior faculty, postdocs, fellows, and students. NYCEF fosters increased awareness about research conducted across institutions. It provides opportunities for researchers to present their work, with the overall goals of promoting bilateral or multisite collaborative projects and enhancing career opportunities for junior investigators. For more information about the forum, please visit: https://www.hofstra.edu/health-sciences/nycef.html. To view the program, please visit: https://www.hofstra.edu/sites/default/files/2025-01/nycef-2025-program.pdf.

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Aging Café 
4:30-6:20 p.m.
HofUSA
Hofstra University

Embark on an immersive journey at our interactive event! Guests will explore various stations - including falls risk assessment, rock steady boxing, ergonomics, helpful cognitive exercises, resources on scams and smart 911, dementia risk reduction, sensory architecture -  engaging in lively conversations and exciting activities that foster a positive perspective on aging. Plus, indulge in food and drinks as you mingle and discover the vibrant experiences that await. Join us for an unforgettable evening of discovery, connection, and celebration!

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Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Empowering Our Community: Navigating Alzheimer’s and Dementia 
6:30-8:20 p.m.
Cultural Center Theater
Hofstra University

The Alzheimer's Association, Long Island Chapter, returns for a special presentation: "Empowering Our Community: Navigating Alzheimer’s and Dementia."

Gain valuable insights into the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, along with essential resources for caregivers and those living with the disease. The event will feature an elder-care attorney who will tackle critical conversations on driving, doctor visits, and legal and financial planning. The event will also feature a couple from the Alzheimer’s Association who will share their lived experience. Don’t miss this powerful, informative, and uplifting event!

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Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Stress-Less Yoga: It Begins with Breath, with Keryn Hing-Avery 
1-2:25 p.m.
Hofstra Fitness Center/Aerobics Studio
Hofstra University

Join us for Stress-Less Yoga: It Begins with Breath, a calming and restorative yoga session designed to help you release tension, quiet the mind, and reconnect with your breath. This class focuses on mindful breathing techniques, gentle movement, and guided relaxation to support stress relief and inner balance. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, this practice will leave you feeling refreshed, centered, and at ease.

Come as you are and take a deep breath—peace starts here.

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Limited to 20 people

Wednesday, April 9, 2025
CPR/AED/Narcan Training
1-2:25 p.m.
Hofstra Dome, 2nd Floor
Hofstra University

Participants will learn to recognize life-threatening situations and receive certification in CPR/AED and choking skills through the Emergency Care and Safety Institute (valid for two years). Additionally, students will be trained to identify opioid overdoses and administer Narcan. Each participant will receive a Narcan kit, and certification will be provided by the NYS Opioid Overdose Prevention Program.

RSVP

Limited to 20 people

Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Health Sciences Career & Internship Fair 
1-3:30 p.m.
Student Center Multipurpose Room
Hofstra University 

Health Sciences Career & Internship Fair - No Pre-Registration required

The Health Sciences Career & Internship Fair is a great place to connect with a large number of employers at one time. Companies will visit campus to recruit for full-time, part-time, volunteer, and internship opportunities in all areas of health and human services.  All majors and class years are encouraged to attend!

You can also get your LinkedIn headshot taken at the fair!

Please dress professionally and bring copies of your resume. Don't have anything to wear? The Career Closet is FREE for students and is located in the Campus Living and Wellness Center, Room 147B. During the fall and spring semesters, students may drop-in hours of Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-2:30pm.

We are happy to answer any questions that you have about the fair! Contact us at careerdesign@hofstra.edu.

Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Brett Lake Mental Health Speaker Series 
4:30-6:20 p.m.
Student Center Multipurpose Room
Hofstra University

This year the Brett Lake Event will focus on suicide prevention, and best practices for counseling interventions will be explored.

About the Brett Lake Speaker Series:

The Brett Lake Event is an annual event sponsored by the Brett Fund for Mental Health, a fund that honors Brett Lake for whom life became too much to bear in 2021. Brett was born on July 4th, 1993, and he was a typical little boy who grew into a kind and caring young adult. This was evidenced by his strong friendship bonds with a wonderful group of young adults, his chosen experiences from spending time on the Hill in DC post-graduation from Hofstra as a political science major, to becoming a Housing specialist in the Department of Homeless Services under Mayor DeBlasio where his job was finding housing for the homeless. These experiences led to Brett’s enrolling in the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University. It was during this time that Brett developed signs of mental struggle. The purpose of this fund is to support positive mental health initiatives aimed to help students by providing resources to access support and help with stress management as needed. In addition, the fund sponsors speakers to come to campus during the annual National Public Health Week. If this program could result in the saving of but one life ended too shortly, it would have to be considered an overwhelming success and would add that much more meaning to the purpose of Brett’s life.

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Thursday, April 10, 2025
From Pap Smear to Progress: The Evolution of Cervical Cancer Screening and Modern Recommendations 
10 a.m.-Noon
Cultural Center Theater
Hofstra University

Join us for a special screening of The Cancer Detectives, a compelling documentary that explores groundbreaking efforts in cervical cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This thought-provoking film follows the scientists, doctors, and patients at the forefront of early cancer detection, shedding light on innovative research and the future of cervical cancer care.

Following the screening, stay for a discussion featuring experts in oncology, public health, and medical research. Engage in a meaningful conversation about the film’s themes, the impact of early detection, and advancements in cancer prevention and treatment.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn, reflect, and be part of the dialogue on one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.

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Thursday, April 10, 2025
Confronting the Black Perinatal Health Crisis: A Community Dialogue 
1-2:30 p.m.
Cultural Center Theater
Hofstra University

Join us for a critical panel discussion addressing the urgent infant and maternal health crisis facing Black individuals in the United States. The event will feature a screening of Toxic: A Black Women's Story, a powerful documentary that delves into the complex inequities underlying the alarmingly high infant mortality rates among Black women. This timely discussion comes as recent data shows Black infants continue to die 3 to 4 times the rate of white infants. Our expert panel will explore the multifaceted causes of these disparities, including systemic racism, healthcare bias, and socioeconomic factors, while highlighting potential solutions and ongoing initiatives to combat this critical issue.

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Thursday, April 10, 2025
8th Annual Grand Audiology Debate
4:30-6:20 p.m.
246 East Library Wing
Hofstra University

Topic: Use of AI in Audiology
Panelists:
Mitch Kase, Executive Director, Education and Research, Ed Tech, Hofstra University
Aniruddha Deshpande, Chair and Associate Professor of Audiology, Hofstra University

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the use of harvesting vast stores of existing information available online to produce novel and generative output. Some examples of AI systems are movie suggestions on Netflix, virtual assistants like Siri, and chatbots like ChatGPT. These systems undoubtedly make our everyday lives easier to navigate. But their uncontrolled use may lead to unintended consequences. This student-led debate – relevant to the National Public Health Week 2025 theme of ‘It Starts Here’ – will explore both the benefits and pitfalls of the use of AI in Audiology and other healthcare disciplines.

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Thursday, April 10, 2025
Global Health Symposium 
4:30-6:20 p.m.
Student Center Multipurpose Room 101
Hofstra University

Join us for the School of Health Sciences’ Global Health Symposium, an interdisciplinary gathering of students, faculty, and professionals dedicated to exploring critical issues in global health. This symposium will feature a keynote speaker and discussion on global disease prevention, health equity, climate change and health, innovations in healthcare delivery, and more.

Whether you're a student, researcher, or health advocate, this event offers a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and collaborate on solutions to today’s most pressing global health challenges.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping the future of global health!

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Thursday, April 10, 2025
Health Equity Advocacy - Today and Beyond 
6:30-8:20 p.m.
Cultural Center Theater
Hofstra University

The Department of Population Health presents "Health Equity Advocacy – Today and Beyond," a dynamic event featuring experts from government, public health, healthcare, social services and advocacy organizations. Guest speakers will share their insights on the current landscape of health equity advocacy, highlighting challenges, progress, and opportunities for meaningful change. Together, we'll explore innovative strategies and bold actions needed to shape a more just and equitable future in health. Don’t miss this thought-provoking and impactful conversation!

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Friday, April 11, 2025
Annual Creative Arts Therapy Counseling Conference: 
It Starts Here: The Power of Creative Beginnings
8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Hagedorn Hall 
Hofstra University

For the past three decades, the Creative Arts Therapy Conference at Hofstra University has been at the forefront of exploring the growth of the creative arts therapy profession. Merging with National Public Health Week, we celebrate 30 years of impact, innovation, and healing within our communities. This milestone conference is more than a celebration, it is also a call to action as It All Starts Here: The Power of Creative Beginnings. We are proud to remain part of the movement to shape the next era of art therapy and welcome our Keynote, Jordan Potash, to share his expertise on advocacy efforts within the field.

Website

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