St. Louis, October 7, 2023 – Washington University in St. Louis, as a part of its strategic vision known as “Here and Next,” is rallying its resources in research, education, and patient care to position the university and the city of St. Louis as a global hub for innovative solutions to society’s most pressing challenges. At the forefront of this endeavor is a focus on public health.
Provost Beverly Wendland highlighted the university’s unique opportunity to catalyze a transformation in public health with far-reaching impacts. “We have the opportunity — from here in St. Louis — to transform public health to improve lives across the nation and our globe,” said Wendland. “As we emerge from the pandemic, we have seen both the strengths and limitations of public health practices that have been in place for decades. We possess the talent to envision a future for public health that addresses unmet needs. With the right investments, WashU can effect unprecedented positive change in countless lives.”
Washington University in St. Louis already boasts a formidable foundation in public health, comprising a robust faculty with expertise in the field, pioneering research initiatives, and a spectrum of degree programs. In line with its commitment to advancing public health, the university is embarking on the establishment of a new School of Public Health. This initiative is geared towards meeting the dynamic requirements of the city, region, and the world, paving the way for WashU’s first new school in a century. This innovative school aims to amplify the university’s well-established academic and applied excellence in the domain of public health, building on its existing strengths and commitment to societal well-being.