What is NPHW?
National Public Health Week (NPHW), organized by the American Public Health Association (APHA) every April, is celebrated throughout the United States in honor of the field of public health. During this week, universities and organizations are encouraged to host events that highlight public health contributions, bring attention to key health issues and unite the public health community.
As UC Merced's official public health undergraduate student organization, Public Health Society (PHS) partners with local organizations and departments every year to celebrate NPHW across campus. During this week, PHS hosts speaker presentations, tabling activities, community service opportunities, virtual infographics, a research symposium, and more geared towards student exploration of the field of public health.
2026 Events
MONDAY
Public Health Without Borders (Resource Fair)
In partnership with the Monarch Center, we will be hosting a Resource Fair where you will find all sorts free materials and connections to resources across campus. Complete your "passport" and win a free slushie!
Convo with Public Health Professionals (Panel)
Public health professionals from the Merced County Department of Public Health will share their experiences working in local public health. Don't miss it!
TUESDAY
Blood Drive
Sign up to donate blood via Diverse Doctors blood drive. By appointment (sign up): xxx
Behavioral Health Presentation and Workshop
Representatives from the Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services will join us to share about the opportunities for mental health work within government services.
WEDNESDAY
Volunteer Hour: Goodie Bag Prep
In collaboration with Operation Smile, we will be preparing "goodie bags" for the D St Homeless Shelter Community Action Agency. This activity will count towards volunteer credits.
Coffee & Cookies with Faculty
Join us for our recurring Coffee & Cookies event, a wonderful opportunity for undergraduate students to connect with their peers and meet our faculty in a casual and welcoming setting. Come by, grab a treat, and mingle with our Public Health community!
THURSDAY
2026 NCPC TESS Symposium
The Nicotine and Cannabis Policy Center (NCPC) will be hosting its second annual NCPC Tobacco Endgame Scholarship Symposium (TESS) where undergraduate and graduate scolars, early-career researchers, and public health professionals will present their research, policy analyses, and community engagement projects aligned with tobacco prevention and control efforts. Light food and refreshments will be provided!
To learn more and register, please visit: https://ucmerced.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4T37tgT67oJo9M2?Q_CHL=qr
From Bedside to Community: How Nurses Shape Public Health and Individual Healing (Panel)
A Panel Discussion Featuring Nurses from UC Merced, Merced County, and Local Emergency Medicine
Join us for an evening panel that explores the stunning breadth of nursing. You'll meet six nurses whose careers span the healthcare spectrum — created and facilitated by Ayomidamope (Ayo) Adebiyi, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with specialties in occupational and environmental health. Each panelist brings a unique story and setting. Together, they'll bust myths, share stories, and answer your honest questions about:
☑ What nurses actually do all day (hint: it's not what you see on TV)
☑ How nurses diagnose, treat, and lead — independently
☑ The deep connection between nursing and public health
☑ Why nursing might be your path — whether you're pre-med, pre-PA, public health, or still exploring
Other event details:
- Dinner will be provided
- All majors welcome
- Supported by the UC Merced Health and Wellness
FRIDAY
2026 NPHW Research Symposium
Join us for our 4th annual NPHW Research Symposium to explore the groundbreaking public health research being conducted at UC Merced and throughout the California Central Valley! A networking and tabling event will be taking place simultaneously where students, faculty, staff, and leaders/members from our community can network and learn about the opportunities and resources available to them. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided!
- Co-organized with the Department of Medical Education (DOME)
- Faculty session and lunch sponsored by Health Promotion
- Poster sessions supported by Document Services
Featured events:
- Keynote Speaker: Claudia Corchado (Deputy Executive Director, Cultiva Central Valley)
- SJV PRIME+ Student Poster Presentations
- Faculty Discussion Panel: Supporting Student Wellness at UC Merced
- Networking and Tabling Session
- Public Health Research Poster Presentations
- Closing Speaker: Yamilet Valladolid, MPH (Director of Government & Community Affairs | Golden Valley Health Centers & Central Valley PACE)
SATURDAY
You Solve Public Health! (MegaGame)
This public health MegaGame is a simulation exercise where participants respond to a hypothetical public health crisis. The goal is to test decision-making, identify weaknesses in response plans, and improve crisis strategies.
- Led by Prof. Bultena, Niove Aragon, and the “Dungeons & Dragons Skills IRL?” -- SPRK 001H class
- Sponsored by UC Merced Honors Program
Limited spaces (max 50 participants)! Sign up here: https://forms.gle/BDgLA2AqtanvPigg8
SUNDAY
Public Health Sports Day & Picnic
Join us for a fun closing of NPHW where we plan to play sports and board games and have a picnic in the grass area!
Brought to you by Public Health Society and the Department of Public Health at UC Merced.
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