SOPHE Chapters Region II
The Arkansas SOPHE Chapter is rebuilding with a focus on providing college students opportunities to actively engage with health professionals.
Currently, Arkansas SOPHE is planning its annual conference. The conference will be hosted by students on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas. All the schools in Arkansas are invited to participate and present during the student case competitions.
While the chapter focuses on professionals; they know that students ultimately benefit the most from networking and chapter membership.
“It is our responsibility to empower each other by magnifying the work our community contributes to igniting change and innovation in our ever-changing world.”
Arkansas SOPHE serves as the conduit for Arkansas organizations and public health professionals. The chapter is the liaison for professionals to obtain CEs at events which is a win-win for the partnering organization and the chapter. It’s a great way to increase membership. It will also offer an opportunity to have more membership perks for joining Arkansas SOPHE.
“Leaders may come and go; but infrastructure and succession planning will continue to move the association in the right direction. It is imperative to have a plan in place to direct new leadership while influencing the current membership that Arkansas SOPHE is a valuable resource. There will always be motivated professionals that are interested in moving the needle and being a resource for health professionals.”
The Delta SOPHE Chapter has three times as many students as professional members. Several members are taking the lead to move the Jackson State University School of Public Health toward accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health. It will be the first accredited school of public health in Mississippi among historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
“Communicate frequently. Keep everybody informed of chapter activities.”
The Florida SOPHE Chapter members are almost all national SOPHE members. They are active with local coalitions and co-sponsoring conferences with a focus on building and maintaining members.
Their advice,
“Help build sustainability in leadership to avoid volunteer burnout.”
The Georgia SOPHE Chapter is impacting the field of tobacco-related policy by partnering with and promoting organizations across the state advocating for smoke-free environments.
This chapter is unique with an advisory board that provides insight into funding strategies and membership recruitment. The chapter is actively identifying ways to engage all levels of health education professionals to diversify membership (students, working professionals, CHES/MCHES, retired professionals, and related professions).
Georgia SOPHE is leading the way in advancing the health education profession through cutting edge education/professional development opportunities and advocacy within the field to improve the health outcomes of ALL Georgians.
The Illinois SOPHE Chapter partners with the Illinois Public Health Association. One of the many benefits of this partnership is extending the reach of chapter CE events.
The chapter is proud of its impact on the next generation of health education specialists — an anonymous donor enabled the chapter to provide three student scholarships.
Their advice,
“Be patient. Volunteer led boards are often challenged with limited capabilities. Be open minded and flexible in setting goals.”
“Be clear about responsibilities and roles, develop a team mentality and have fun! “
The Midwest SOPHE Chapter is celebrating its fifth year as a chapter. A strategic plan will set the direction for the next three years. SOPHE Midwest covers Kansas and Missouri, has an opportunity to market public and school health education; advocate for policy, systems, and environmental changes that promote health and racial equity; and shine a light on the valuable work of their members.
Currently, the chapter is looking for opportunities to collaborate, grow, and strengthen public and school health education and promotion in its communities.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful and committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead.
The North Carolina SOPHE Chapter is proud of its history and is looking forward to the future. NC SOPHE honors and supports its health education professionals and partners with universities and colleges to actively engage students.
The chapter holds an annual conference with speakers, breakout sessions and networking opportunities. They offer CHES and MCHES credit for all professional development activities.
“Connections with colleges/universities is key. We’re working to establish and maintain those connections to infuse our chapter with youthful ideas and energy!”