School Notes: School of Public Health
September/October 2026

Making impact while still in school

A YSPH Environmental Health Sciences class developed model legislation in collaboration with community champions, which resulted in the passage of a bill that the Connecticut General Assembly ratified with bipartisan support this May, and the governor signed into law. That’s public health in action—while still in the classroom. It shows how YSPH students don’t wait until graduation to make real impact. CTGA Special Act 26-13 is based on the Mount Growmore Hydroponic Farm, Wellness Campus and Learning Center national model for children and family well-being championed in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

An alum has his moment

Bob Schwartz ’76MPH was unable to attend his own commencement, but 50 years later, the Class of 2026 welcomed him to theirs. As his moment arrived, cheers rang out as the audience stood to applaud him. The Class of 2026 included 19 students who earned doctor of philosophy (PhD) degrees, 301 who earned master of public health (MPH) degrees, and 72 who earned master of science degrees in public health. Thirteen joint MPH degrees were awarded to students enrolled in graduate programs at other Yale schools.

Where public health meets innovation

The 2026 Yale Innovation Summit Health Track, organized by Yale Ventures and led by Senior Fellow KP Yelpaalawith other volunteers across Yale, brought together entrepreneurs, investors, clinicians, and policymakers to explore how innovation can build stronger, more equitable health systems. Dean Megan Ranney hosted a chat with Andy Slavitt, former acting administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, on the future of US health policy. YSPH faculty moderated panels on AI, global health, and mental well-being. Students pitched startups. Faculty presented research. It was YSPH’s vision—translating science into solutions, and ensuring innovation reaches the communities that need it most.