The USF College of Public Health (COPH) brought its public health community together in San Antonio during the 2026 American Public Health Association (APHA) Annual Meeting & Expo. From student research presentations and professional development opportunities to reconnecting with alumni, faculty and public health advocates at the college’s annual reception, COPHers showcased their passion, expertise and commitment to advancing public health.

As a child growing up between Jamaica and Central Florida, Dr. Atalie Ashley West dreamed of one day becoming Jamaica's Minister of Health. Surrounded by public health nurses, including a great aunt who was among the Windrush nurses who helped establish England's National Health Service, she developed an early appreciation for the role public health plays in improving lives. Years later, that passion found its home at USF’s College of Public Health, where an unexpected class would shape the cour

Kimberly Cole is building on years of experience in infection prevention to strengthen her leadership skills through USF’s College of Public Health (COPH) doctor of public health (DrPH) program. As an infection prevention manager in South Florida, Cole is connecting her professional experience with applied learning to expand her impact on public health.