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PROMOTE • PREVENT • PROTECT
Home2026 Public Health Policy Champions Cohort
Inaugural Public Health Policy Champions (PHPC) Cohort
Spring 2026
PHPC Purpose
  • Enhance foundational knowledge of policy and advocacy principles among SD public health professionals through structured virtual training sessions.
  • Strengthen peer connections and professional networks among PHPC cohort members to foster public health policy and advocacy.
  • Provide experiential learning opportunities that allow the PHPC cohort to apply their knowledge in practical, policy-relevant contexts.
  • Cultivate leadership skills that empower PHPC cohort members to serve as effective advocates and change agents within their communities.

Eligibility

Any individual(s) with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed training activities. Self-directed learners looking to advance their leadership advocacy skills. Currently working in public health leadership role (e.g., state government, community-based organization).

Participants must be able commit to:

  • Travel to Pierre (Feb 11-12) to engage with state legislators & exposure to policy making processes and trainings

  • Weekly virtual trainings and Action Learning Lab (March & April)

  • Present at the South Dakota Public Health Association (SDPHA) Annual conference in Sioux Falls (May 2026)

Application

Please fill out the application linked below:

Spring 2026 PHPC Application Form
Wondering if you can do this work with your current professional role? Please refer to webinar linked below:
Webinar: From Voice to Influence: Navigating Advocacy and Lobbying

South Dakota Public Health Association is an affiliated association of the American Public Health Association (APHA). We have collaborated with APHA to grow stronger as organizations, to share expertise, influence, and resources, and to advocate for common priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. APHA champions optimal, equitable health and well-being for all. With our broad-based member community and perspective, we influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Learn more at www.apha.org.

Promoting Health. Preventing Disease. Protecting South Dakotans.

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