Boston, MA – Today people are likely to think of COVID-19 when hearing the term public health. In truth the range of public health issues – and the people who work diligently every day to safeguard the health of our communities – is vast and deep. From potential new outbreaks of Mpox and health care for the homeless to clean swimming pools and drinking water and services for those suffering from addiction or mental health, public health concerns each and every resident of the Commonwealth.

On Friday, June 2, 2023, the Massachusetts Public Health Association (MPHA) will honor four public health professionals for their critical service, inspiring leadership, and commitment to racial justice at the 21st Annual MPHA Spring Awards Breakfast. The 2023 MPHA Awardees are:

• Local Public Health Leadership Award: Dr. Matilde Castiel, Commissioner of Worcester Health and Human Services and President of the Massachusetts Large Cities Health Coalition
• Paul Revere Award: Kevin Cranston, Assistant Commissioner, Director of the Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences at the MA Department of Public Health
• Emerging Leader/Alfred Frechette Award: Tiana Davis, Deputy Public Health Commissioner for the City of Springfield.
• Lemuel Shattuck Award: Adrienne “Andy” Epstein, Brookline Advisory Council on Public Health

More than 350 people are expected at the sold out to be held at the Artists For Humanity EpiCenter in South Boston. Massachusetts Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein will speak along with President & CEO of Health Resources in Action and MPHA Board President Steve Ridini and Executive Director of Harvard and the Legacy of Slavery Initiative and MPHA Board President-Elect Roeshana Moore-Evans.

In addition to raising funds to support the advocacy and organizing agenda of MPHA, the breakfast offers an opportunity to recognize those whose daily work is devoted to making local communities and the entire Commonwealth healthier and more equitable.

“At this moment in history, when public health staff in Massachusetts and across the country have faced backlash and even harassment for their work it is more important than ever to celebrate those who have committed themselves to this hard and live-saving work,” stated Carlene Pavlos, Executive Director of MPHA.

Read the full release.