A message from the President.

Greetings, NCPHA Family!

It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve as your President of the North Carolina Public Health Association (NCPHA) for 2026–2027. I am excited about the opportunity to lead this great organization and, more importantly, to work alongside so many dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health.

Public health has been a part of my life for more than 20 years, and if there is one thing I have learned along the way, it is that the strength of public health is in its people. Every day, across North Carolina, public health professionals work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of others. Some work directly with the communities we serve, while others work behind the scenes to keep our agencies running. Regardless of our roles, we all contribute to the same mission, and every role matters.

Our 2026 Fall Educational Conference theme, “From the Mountains to the Coast: Public Health for Every North Carolinian,” reminds us that while our communities may look different and face different challenges, we share a common goal: ensuring that every North Carolinian has the opportunity to live a healthier life.

As your President, I want to focus on bringing our members together, strengthening partnerships, supporting professional growth, and encouraging the next generation of public health leaders. I want NCPHA to continue being an organization where every member feels welcomed, valued, heard, and supported.

We know that public health is not without its challenges. Limited funding, workforce shortages, and the changing needs of our communities are realities we face every day. But I also know what we can accomplish when we come together, share ideas, support one another, and speak with one voice.

I am grateful to those who have led NCPHA before me and helped build the strong foundation we have today. I look forward to working with our Executive Board, Governing Council Members, committees, sections, partners, and members as we continue moving our Association forward.

My challenge to each of you is simple: Get involved. Stay connected. Share your ideas. Support one another. Whether you are new to public health or have served for many years, your voice and your involvement matter.

I believe leadership is about service, listening, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. While I may hold the title of President, the success of NCPHA is not about one person. It is about all of us working together.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve and for everything you do each day to improve the health and well-being of the people of North Carolina.

From the mountains to the coast, we are NCPHA, and together, we serve every North Carolinian.

Yours in Public Health,

Andrea R. Freeman, MPA, NC-CLGFO
President, North Carolina Public Health Association
2026–2027