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June 2, 2026
Funding, Politics, and Proof: Advocating for Public Health When Resources are Scarce
Lerner Center for Public Health Advocacy, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University
Tuesday, June 2, 2026; 12:00 to 1:30 p.m.
Session 1: Making the Case for Public Health Investment 101: Learn how to do more for public health with less.
This session explains why now is a pivotal moment for public health and how you can act on it. Advocacy experts will highlight current windows of opportunity, share successful case studies, and discuss how they have navigated the current political climate. Participants will leave with clear lessons learned and how they can best advance their public health priorities.
Panelists:
- Katie Coester, MPP. Vice President of Federal Government Relations, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK)
- Matt Wellington, Associate Director, Maine Public Health Association
- Sharon Gilmartin, MPH, Executive Director, Safe States Alliance
Moderator:
- Tesfa Alexander, PhD, MA
Deputy Director, Lerner Center for Public Health Advocacy
Register to Join Advocating for Public Health
Future Sessions
These sessions will take place in Fall 2026. Dates and additional information coming soon! Subscribe to the Lerner Center Newsletter for updates.
Session 2: Power Mapping - Actions to Take Before and After Midterms
Learn how to build a power map, with a focus on preparing for the midterm elections. Learn to define your goal, prioritize targets, and strategically use your resources to advance your public health goals.
Session 3: From Need to Value - How to Persuade Decision Makers
Build the skills to engage decision-makers, operate effectively in nonpartisan settings, and use media advocacy to amplify messages and mobilize supporters. Participants will leave with tools they can use to influence policy when time, staff, and budgets are limited.
