The Future of Public Health Leadership in Divided Times

Graduate / Professional

This course examines the evolving role of public health leadership, including challenges and opportunities of leading in an era of rising health threats and deepening political and social divides. Students explore how leaders can advance prevention, equity, and measurable health outcomes at scale, while navigating myriad crises including pandemics, mental health reform, the epidemic of chronic and diet-related disease, and climate change. Through guest lectures from leading national experts and practitioners, real-world case studies, and interactive simulations, students gain practical skills in political analysis, policy design, crisis communication, and data-driven decision-making to lead in divided and resource-constrained environments. Taught by Professor of the Practice and former New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the course equips future leaders with the skills to navigate crisis, build trust, and shape health policy for the pressing challenges of the day, in complex and divided times. T 10am-11:50am