Nationally, 2010 was a tremendous year in terms of public health with the passing of health care reform and other public health-related legislation. In 2011, the important dialogues regarding the implementation of health care reform and its impact on public health, and the effects of potentially serious budget cuts at the state level loom ahead. Now is the time for the Nevada Public Health Association to be a clear, strong, and unified voice representing all public health disciplines in the state. The Nevada Public Health Association (NPHA) is Nevada’s only statewide professional association representing all public health disciplines and sectors. In addition, NPHA is the state affiliate of the American Public Health Association.

You are a vital component of this voice for public health! If you are currently a member, I encourage you to become involved in the many activities that are occurring this year, including conference planning, advocacy for public health, attending the annual conference, attending a local chapter meeting, running for an NPHA officer position, and connecting with colleagues around the state. If you are not a member of NPHA, I STRONGLY encourage you to become involved. You can start by becoming a NPHA member.

Please join NPHA as the voice of public health in Nevada. If you have any questions or feedback about NPHA, please contact me any time at melva.thompson-robinson@unlv.edu. I look forward to working with you this year.