ADVANCEMENT OF THE PRACTICE
tives—often without recognition but always with purpose. The quiet, behind-the-scenes work of EHSS professionals is more vital than ever. As the field rapidly expands, so do oppor- tunities to shape a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world. The University of Findlay’s programs are not just educating future lead- ers—they are building the foundation for resil- ient communities and a more secure future. Food Safety Ensuring the safety of our food supply is another vital, often invisible, aspect of envi- ronmental health. The next example show- cases how programs prepare students to prevent foodborne illness and promote safe food practices. The University of Illinois, Springfield’s Environmental Health Program integrates food safety into both education and work- force development. Students and faculty have translated local health department educa- tional resources into several languages and developed mock inspection scenarios for food inspector training. The program also assists in formalizing standard operating procedures for foodborne illness complaints and food recalls, ensuring compliance with the Volun- tary National Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards from the Food and Drug Adminis- tration. These eorts, combined with hands- on training and internships, prepare graduates to prevent foodborne illness and promote safe food practices in diverse communities. Healthy Housing Safe and healthy housing forms the bedrock of community well-being. Here, we see how envi- ronmental health training helps residents and addresses housing-related health disparities. Texas Southern University’s Environmen- tal Health Program prepares graduates to address crucial environmental health chal- lenges, including the promotion of healthy housing in underserved communities. This commitment is exemplified by a recent stu- dent internship with the Houston Health Department, where the student designed a brochure for the Apartment Compliance Pro- gram to educate residents about their rights and responsibilities regarding housing condi- tions and how to report violations. Drawing on insights gained during ride-alongs, the student created an accessible guide to help community members navigate the reporting
process. By empowering residents with clear information, the program supports eorts to improve living environments and fosters a deeper understanding of tenant rights, directly advancing healthier housing out- comes in the community. Noise and Indoor Air Quality Environmental health extends to the spaces where we learn and gather. The following example demonstrates how programs are reducing noise impacts and improving indoor air quality in schools and public venues. University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire’s envi- ronmental health students, guided by faculty, have evaluated noise levels and hearing risks at athletic events, resulting in the availability of earplugs for fans and protection for all 475 members of the university’s marching band. Their research extended to local industry, where testing at a rubber manufacturing facility documented noise reductions following engi- neering improvements. Students also installed and tested air purifiers in 17 classrooms at the Children’s Nature Academy, documenting a 30% decrease in respiratory disease transmis- sion. By engaging in these applied projects, students gain valuable hands-on experience while delivering lasting benefits to the cam- pus and local community. Collectively, these applied projects demonstrate how the program translates classroom learning into real-world solutions that prevent hearing loss, improve air quality, and protect community health.
programs across North Carolina, conducting applied research on insecticide resistance in local mosquito populations. By rearing mos- quitoes from eggs sent by partner agencies and assessing their resistance to various insecti- cides, students generate data that inform oper- ational decisions for mosquito control and help track resistance patterns statewide. This work not only supports public health agencies but also equips students with the skills and knowl- edge needed for eective vector management and disease prevention in their future careers.
Water Quality
Access to clean, safe water remains a universal need and a persistent challenge. The follow- ing stories demonstrate how academic–com- munity partnerships are making a dierence in water quality and public health. Montana State University’s environmental health majors tackle the widespread challenge of inorganic contaminants in private well water, a pressing issue for rural communities across Montana. By leveraging the Montana Ground Water Information Center’s database, students analyzed water quality data for 1 of >50 state watersheds, with several taking on leadership roles in peer collaboration, data visualization, and outreach to local health departments. Their findings revealed significant health risks from long-term exposure, prompting a formal statewide cumulative risk assessment by uni- versity and state partners. The results informed state policy and were presented at the Montana Environmental Health Association confer- ence. Further, the results will be made publicly accessible at the watershed level, empower- ing well owners and communities to make informed decisions about their drinking water safety. This project highlights how student-led research can drive policy change, contribute to improving community well-being, and foster professional growth in environmental health. East Tennessee State University’s faculty and students are tackling water quality and
Vectorborne Diseases
Vectorborne diseases pose ongoing threats to public health. This example highlights how students and faculty are advancing research and practical solutions to control these risks. East Carolina University’s environmental health students gain practical experience in vectorborne disease control through faculty- mentored, community-engaged research. Students collaborate with mosquito control
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Volume 88 • Number 2
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