When research universities partner with community hospitals, it’s a proven win-win resulting in improved health for patients and more real-life learning opportunities for students. Now the University of Maryland School of Public Health (UMD SPH) and St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) are joining forces to create an academic health department partnership that aims to strengthen the local public health workforce while also advancing on-the-ground learning for students and professionals alike.
Academic health departments create opportunities for collaborative research, workforce development, internships and continuing education. Through this partnership, UMD public health students will gain hands-on learning experiences, while faculty will work closely with health department staff on applied research, evaluation and community health improvement.
“We are thrilled to partner with St. Mary’s County Health Department to launch this Academic Health Department,” said SPH Dean Dr. Boris Lushniak.
“While enhancing student learning through real-world experience, this partnership also crucially supports the local workforce and ensures that our teaching and research efforts are grounded in the needs of communities. It’s mutually beneficial for UMD students and Marylanders.”
St. Mary’s County Health Officer Dr. Meena Brewster, noted that the partnership brings public health practice and education into closer alignment.
“We are excited to introduce UMD students and faculty to public health in action in our county. Our local health department and community will benefit from the scientific expertise, training opportunities and direct pipeline to emerging public health talent that the University of Maryland offers,” said Brewster.
The academic health department will also serve as a platform to jointly pursue funding opportunities, pilot innovative public health strategies and improve health outcomes through community-engaged approaches.