The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health recently celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2025. The commencement ceremony took place at Little Rock’s Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, gathering 78 dedicated graduates who are now poised to take their next steps in the field of public health.
Chancellor Cam Patterson, M.D., MBA, addressed the graduates, emphasizing their profound responsibility to society. He reminded the new public health professionals that their chosen field is one that prioritizes the well-being of communities over personal prestige. “You chose a field that is not about prestige — but about people, about communities, about making sure that no person is invisible,” Patterson stated. His words highlighted the essence of public health, which often operates quietly behind the scenes, yet is pivotal for societal well-being.
Patterson also acknowledged the tumultuous backdrop against which these graduates pursued their education. Many began their studies in the midst of a global pandemic, a time characterized by uncertainty and challenge. He encouraged them to harness the strength and determination that propelled them through their studies. “Be brave,” Patterson urged. “Be curious. Be unafraid to speak hard truths. Most of all, never forget why you started.”
Equally commendable was the speech delivered by Mark Williams, Ph.D., dean of the College of Public Health. He praised the graduates for their commitment to public health and their readiness to tackle the critical issues facing the nation and Arkansas. “It’s important that the United States and Arkansas have highly trained professionals to provide public health and health care administration leadership,” Williams noted. His emphasis on truth and transparency in health communications reiterated the crucial role public health professionals have in shaping perceptions amidst a sea of misinformation.
During the ceremony, Jim Wallis received the 2025 Award for Service to the College of Public Health. Wallis, an Arkansas native, has been a strong advocate for public health funding, donating over $100,000 to the college. His contributions have been instrumental in establishing the Joseph H. Bates Chair in Academic Public Health Practice. “The chair will provide opportunities in perpetuity to support faculty, research on how to best implement public health measures in Arkansas and beyond,” Williams explained. Wallis’s commitment illustrates the vital support needed to enhance public health education and research.
This year marked a significant milestone for the college, as it hosted its first-ever independent commencement ceremony in its 24-year history. In previous years, graduation has been part of a larger UAMS-wide event. The decision to hold separate ceremonies reflects the college’s evolution and its growing prominence in public health education.
One of the most poignant moments of the ceremony came when graduates, faculty, and public health professionals united in reading the public health oath. This shared commitment to integrity and service encapsulated the spirit of the event, reinforcing the graduates’ pledge to prioritize science and truth. “Our obligation and responsibility is to truthfully report science,” Williams stated, compelling graduates to use their training to make a meaningful difference.
As the Class of 2025 embarks on their careers, they are equipped with not just knowledge, but the ethical foundation necessary to navigate the complexities of public health. Their journey will undoubtedly involve both challenges and triumphs, yet their preparation at UAMS has armed them with the tools to impact communities positively and effectively.
With the unwavering support of the college’s faculty and community leaders like Jim Wallis, these new professionals are well-positioned to address health disparities, ensure access to care, and uphold the integrity of public health science. The future of public health is in capable hands, and the Class of 2025 is ready to step into their roles as advocates for better health outcomes.
In conclusion, the notable achievements of the UAMS Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health’s Class of 2025 are a source of hope and inspiration. As they transition from students to public health leaders, their journey is a testament to the importance of commitment to community health and the pursuit of truth in science. The challenges ahead may be significant, but with bravery, curiosity, and a steadfast dedication to their mission, they are set to make a lasting impact in the field of public health.
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