March 26, 2024
Congratulations Grand Challenge for Health Cohort 4 Members!
Submitted by Stephanie Gutierrez
Congratulations Grand Challenge for Health Cohort 4 Members!
Eleven Extension/university professionals have successfully completed the 4th cohort of the Grand Challenge for Health (GCfH) initiative! The cohort members completed the University of Minnesota’s Systems Approaches to Healthy Communities (SAHC) online course, and engaged in coaching sessions that explored policy, systems, and environmental change strategies. Coaching sessions were facilitated by Priscilla Brenes, Christina Holmes, Elizabeth Kiss, and Erin Martinez.
Following the successful completion of the 8-week course, cohort members are now eligible to receive a microcredential badge and funding for the implementation of innovative Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) projects within their communities. Lisa Ross and Elaine Johannes spearheaded the GCfH initiative in 2022 with the aim of empowering Extension professionals to take the lead in addressing the Grand Challenges for Health. Since its inception, numerous cohort members have launched community projects aimed at addressing a diverse range of issues, including structural access barriers, childcare, civic health, youth engagement, health literacy, and the establishment of information and resource hubs.
Cohort 4 members:
Crystal Bashford, Morton County
Clara Misenhelter, Southwind District
Jennifer Gleason, 21 Central District
Jackie Gamez, Chisholm Trail District
Adrian Self, National Ag Biosecurity Center
Karen Shepard, Twin Creeks District
Deb Andres, Geary County
Michelle Broxterman, Wildcat District
Sharon Erickson-Fryback, Gray County
Kaitlyn Peine, Douglas County
Jessica Kootz, Midway District
Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement!
Looking ahead, Cohort 5 will commence in January 2025. If you and a local collaborator are interested in being included, please contact Stephanie Gutierrez at smgutier@k-state.edu.