Dr. Donna Petersen’s career in public health began in practice, with a focus on maternal and child health. She rose to the position of Division Director of Family Health at the Minnesota Department of Health before transitioning into academia with a deep commitment to preparing students for careers in public health practice.
Her academic journey began at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, followed by her role as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Public Health. In 2004, she became Dean of the College of Public Health at the University of South Florida (USF). Throughout her leadership roles, Dr. Petersen has been a driving force in developing innovative, integrated, and practice-based curricula that equip students to tackle the complex challenges of 21st-century public health. Under her leadership, USF became one of the first institutions to implement an integrated core curriculum, guided by the college’s enduring motto: Our practice is our passion.
Dr. Donna Petersen holding her award with her two daughters. (Photo courtesy of ASPPH)
Dr. Petersen’s contributions to academic public health extend far beyond the institutions she has served. She has played a pivotal role in shaping public health education at the national level through her work with:
Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) – Chair of the Framing the Future Task Force (2011-2015), leading the most extensive review of public health curricula ever undertaken. She also served as Chair of the Undergraduate Task Force, Chair of the Education Committee, and later Chair-elect, Chair, and Immediate Past Chair of the ASPPH Board, where she guided the organization through its first strategic plan and helped expand membership to include accredited programs.
Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) – Member (2010-2016) and President (2014-2016), where she played a crucial role in modernizing public health education, leading CEPH’s shift from a siloed “five core discipline” model to a competency-based foundational curriculum for the MPH, and for the first time, establishing practice-based DrPH competencies to distinguish research-focused from practice-oriented doctoral training.
National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE) – Founding board member (2006-2013) and Chair (2007-2009), where she was an early advocate for professional certification in public health, inspiring both peers and skeptics to recognize its value.
Delta Omega Public Health Honor Society – Served as President-elect, President, and Immediate Past President, reinforcing the role of academic excellence in public health.
Dr. Petersen’s leadership in Framing the Future, her presidency at CEPH, and her advocacy for public health certification have helped shape the foundation of modern public health education. Her work has ensured that future generations of public health professionals are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to address real-world challenges.
The 1915 Welch-Rose Report established the framework for academic public health in the U.S., setting a course for over a century of education and training. Dr. Petersen’s contributions have further advanced this legacy, shaping the future of public health education in profound and lasting ways. Her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Reposted from ASPPH