Announcing Dr. Joycelyn Elders as our 2024 SPH Hooding Ceremony guest speaker

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Joycelyn Elders, the 15th Surgeon General of the United States, will be our guest speaker at this year’s 2024 OHSU-PSU School of Public Health Hooding Ceremony on June 2, 2024 at the Oregon Convention Center. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Dr. Elders is an influential and esteemed figure in the field of public health, bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and inspiration to mark this monumental occasion for our graduating class.

Dr. Joycelyn Elders, a trailblazing physician and public health advocate, has dedicated her life to improving health and promoting progress in health education. Her exceptional achievements and groundbreaking initiatives have not only reshaped the public health landscape but also paved the way for future generations of public health professionals.

Dr. Elders’ illustrious career in academia and public health began in 1975 when she joined the faculty at the University of Arkansas as a professor of pediatrics. Her distinguished work history includes serving as the Director of the Arkansas’ Department of Health from 1987 to 1992. However, it was her groundbreaking appointment as the first African-American Surgeon General of the United States by President Bill Clinton that truly secured her place in history.

During her tenure, Dr. Elders fearlessly confronted controversial topics, challenging societal norms and sparking nationwide conversations on crucial public health matters. Her courage, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of individuals and communities have solidified her reputation as a monumental figure in the public health and medical field.

As we prepare to usher our 2024 graduating class into the next chapter of their lives, Dr. Elders’ commencement address will undoubtedly inspire and empower our graduating class. Her profound insights and guidance will serve as a catalyst for our graduates to pursue their dreams, face challenges head-on, and make a lasting impact in the field of public health.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Joycelyn Elders for accepting our invitation and look forward to hearing her words of wisdom during this momentous hooding ceremony.