Hudson College Staff Participate in APHA Annual Meeting

Faculty and staff from the Hudson College of Public Health played an active role at the 2025 American Public Health Association (APHA) Annual Meeting, held Nov. 2–5 in Washington, D.C., by sharing research and representing Oklahoma’s public health priorities at the national level.

Rebekah Rhoades, MPH, and Emily McDaniel, MPH, represented the Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology at the conference, one of the largest gatherings of public health professionals in the world. Their participation highlighted both the applied research strengths of the department and its engagement in national public health leadership.

Rhoades presented findings from an evaluation of the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust’s (TSET) Healthy Living Program using the Prevention Impact Simulation Model (PRISM). Her presentation, “Beyond the grant: simulating the future of public health investments,” demonstrated the program’s projected ability to prevent deaths and reduce medical costs across Oklahoma communities. The analysis emphasized the long-term value of sustained public health funding and the importance of using simulation models to inform policy and investment decisions.

McDaniel attended the meeting in her role as the Oklahoma Public Health Association (OPHA) Affiliate Representative to APHA’s Governing Council, a three-year appointed position designated by the OPHA president. As a voting member of APHA’s primary governing body, McDaniel reviews and votes on policy statements, bylaws, and elected leadership on behalf of Oklahoma. Her service ensures that the perspectives and priorities of Oklahoma’s public health community are represented in APHA’s national policy discussions and strategic direction.

The APHA Annual Meeting serves as a cornerstone event for advancing public health research, practice, and policy, bringing together thousands of professionals to exchange evidence-based strategies and innovative solutions. Participation by Rhoades and McDaniel not only underscores their individual expertise and leadership, but also enhances the visibility and reputation of the Hudson College of Public Health on a national stage.