Celebrating Environmental Health Leaders with 2025 Awards

Celebrating Excellence in Environmental Health

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) proudly recognizes exceptional individuals and organizations through its 2025 awards. These awards celebrate remarkable contributions to the environmental health profession, focusing on innovation, service, and excellence in public health protection.

Honoring Distinguished Leaders

The NEHA Annual Education Conference & Exhibition will showcase the achievements of leaders who embody the highest standards in environmental health. Dr. David T. Dyjack, the executive director of NEHA, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the often unseen efforts of environmental health professionals. He remarked, "Every recipient symbolizes the pinnacle of our profession, showcasing dedication and leadership."

Prestigious Awards for Outstanding Contributions

The highest honor bestowed by NEHA is the Walter S. Mangold Award, given to Charles S. Otto, III, REHS, DAAS, USPHS (Ret.). This award acknowledges individuals for their significant contributions to the environmental health field. Otto's exemplary commitment to education and progressive leadership reflects the dedication of environmental health professionals across the country.

An additional significant recognition is the Dr. Bailus Walker, Jr. Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Award, presented to Maurica Bynum, DrPH, MPH. This award honors individuals passionate about fostering diversity and inclusivity within the profession. Bynum's advocacy work is driving meaningful change and equity in the realm of environmental health.

The Joe Beck Educational Contribution Award will honor Joe Sarcone for his exceptional commitment to advancing the education and professional development of environmental health practitioners. His innovative and accessible training resources have profoundly impacted the field nationally.

Another important accolade is the Samuel J. Crumbine Award for Excellence in Food Protection, awarded to a local jurisdiction that excels in reducing foodborne illnesses. This year, it recognizes the efforts of Pima County for implementing innovative practices that promote food safety, honoring the legacy of public health pioneer Samuel Crumbine.

Emerging Talent in Environmental Health

NEHA also encourages the next generation of environmental health leaders through its Student Research Competition. This initiative celebrates young scholars who demonstrate extraordinary research capabilities in their field. This year's winners include:

• Lauren Garcia, whose project evaluated the treatment efficacy of a novel nano-antibiotic against drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is a bachelor's student in environmental health from East Carolina University.
• Kira Kalpeshkumar from the University of Illinois Springfield, awarded for her research on advancing sustainable plastic waste management.

These students were selected from a competitive pool of nearly 30 submissions. Both will receive travel support and stipends to present their research at the NEHA's 2025 Annual Education Conference & Exhibition.

Providing Opportunities with Scholarships

Alongside these awards, NEHA, in collaboration with the American Academy of Sanitarians (AAS), will grant five academic scholarships in 2025 to support promising students pursuing careers in environmental health:

• Caydence Freitas, from the University of Washington, will receive the Dr. Carolyn Hester Harvey Scholarship.
• Savanna Crooks, from Eastern Kentucky University, is honored with the Dr. Sheila Davidson Pressley Scholarship.
• Katrina Cruz, from Western Carolina University, receives the NEHA/AAS Undergraduate Scholarship.
• Julia Weakley, from Texas A&M University, is awarded the NEHA/AAS Graduate Scholarship.
• Damilola Sherifat Shaba, from the University of Illinois, also receives the NEHA/AAS Graduate Scholarship.

NEHA is committed to nurturing the talent within the environmental health field through these recognitions and advancements in education. By fostering a supportive environment, NEHA empowers the future workforce in addressing critical public health challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the NEHA awards?

The NEHA awards aim to honor individuals and organizations that significantly contribute to the advancement of the environmental health profession.

Who receives the Walter S. Mangold Award?

The award is presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the environmental health field, exemplified this year by Charles S. Otto, III.

What is the significance of the Dr. Bailus Walker, Jr. Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Award?

This award recognizes efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity within the environmental health profession, highlighting the work of leaders like Maurica Bynum.

How does NEHA support emerging leaders?

NEHA supports emerging leaders through the Student Research Competition, providing winners with travel support and opportunities for professional development.

What scholarships are available through NEHA?

NEHA, in partnership with AAS, awards several scholarships to students pursuing careers in environmental health, each with specific criteria and recognition.

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