On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Dr. Jan K. Carney, Associate Dean for Public Health and Health Policy in the Larner College of Medicine (LCOM) at the University of Vermont (UVM), led a thought-provoking panel discussion on public health issues during an event titled Federal Cuts to Global and Public Health: Effects and Responses. Co-sponsored by multiple units across UVM and the Vermont Public Health Association (VtPHA) and co-chaired by Dr. Jeanne Shea, Director of UVM's Health and Society Program and by Dan Olson, Executive Director of the VtPHA, the event brought together faculty, students, staff, and public health professionals to examine the far-reaching consequences of recent federal funding reductions to public and global health programs and research initiatives.

Dr. Carney moderated a dynamic conversation among a panel of public health experts, who explored the implications of these cuts in the United States. The discussion focused on the challenges facing public health infrastructure, the impact on vulnerable populations, and strategies for advocacy and adaptation in the face of shifting federal priorities. Dr. Shea moderated the keynote address and Dr. Burton Wilcke, Emeritus Associate Professor of Biomedical and Health Sciences at UVM, moderated a global health panel.

LCOM Public Health faculty members Dr. Tom Delaney, Dr. Tom Griffin, Dr. Erika Ziller, and Dr. Shamima Khan were also in attendance, contributing their insights and engaging with attendees during breakout sessions and informal discussions.

In addition to the panel, LCOM's Public Health division provided valuable resources and program information for undergraduate students interested in pursuing careers in public health.

These materials were designed to help students understand the current landscape and prepare for meaningful roles in addressing today’s most pressing health challenges.

The event underscored UVM’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue and equipping the next generation of public health leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate a rapidly evolving field.