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Welcome Jessie Gleckel to Our Department!

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portrait of Jessie Gleckel

We are thrilled to welcome Jessie Gleckel to our department, a seasoned leader in public health whose extensive experience spans practice, research, and evaluation on local, national, and international stages. Her impressive career has seen her excel in roles at prestigious organizations, such as PATH, Public Health – Seattle & King County, the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence.

Jessie’s diverse background has enabled her to collaborate effectively with both small and large nonprofit organizations, governmental health agencies, and federal institutions. Her passion and dedication are particularly evident in her focus areas, which include:

  • Prevention and research on sexual and intimate partner violence
  • Advocacy for sexual and reproductive health and rights
  • Promotion of gender equity in HIV prevention, care, and treatment
  • Quality improvement in correctional health

Beyond her focus areas, Jessie brings a wealth of expertise in:

  • Providing technical assistance to various stakeholders
  • Building strong, collaborative partnerships across different sectors
  • Conducting thorough assessments and evaluations
  • Designing innovative tools and processes for quality improvement and assurance

Jessie holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Washington’s Community-Oriented Public Health Practice Program and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Public Health at Rutgers University.

Her arrival heralds an exciting new chapter for our department as we continue to strive for health equity and innovation in public health. Join us in welcoming Jessie Gleckel to our team, where her leadership and vision will no doubt make a significant impact.

Supporting Our Community: Winter Donation Drive 2025

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This winter, our department is proud to support two impactful initiatives dedicated to serving Hartford residents: Hands On Hartford and Community Service Officer Jim Barrett’s Homeless Outreach Program. As the colder months arrive and financial instability continues to rise, community support is more important than ever.

About Community Service Officers & Officer Jim Barrett
Community Service Officers work directly within Hartford neighborhoods, building relationships, attending community events, and addressing quality-of-life concerns. Officer Jim Barrett, the city’s homeless outreach officer, goes above and beyond to support unhoused individuals. Operating out of a renovated bomb squad truck turned mobile care unit, he provides supplies, resources, and connections to social services. His compassionate work has been recognized locally and nationally.

About Hands On Hartford
Hands On Hartford strengthens the community through housing support, food access, homelessness prevention, and outreach services. Their MANNA Community Pantry, Backpack Nutrition Program, Supportive Housing, and Shared Use Kitchen all play a crucial role in meeting basic needs and fostering long-term stability. Their participation-based restaurant, Gather55, welcomes everyone—regardless of ability to pay—creating a space where community and compassion meet over a shared meal.

They also operate a Day Program that provides referrals, shelter support, health screenings, and a safe environment for those experiencing homelessness. With more than 1,400 volunteers each year and support from civic, faith-based, and organizational partners, Hands On Hartford continues to create a healthier, more inclusive Hartford for all.

How You Can Help
This year, many community members are facing reduced assistance, unexpected hardships, and limited access to food or warm clothing. Even small contributions can make a meaningful difference—especially items like $5 fast-food gift cards, which provide unhoused individuals the opportunity to purchase a warm meal.

Most-needed items include:

  • Financial contributions

  • Nonperishable food

  • Full-size toiletries & household essentials

  • Food for children’s backpack nutrition program

  • Snack kits for outreach

  • Hygiene products

  • Cold-weather gear

  • $5 fast-food gift cards to Mcdonalds, Burger King and Dunkin Donuts

  • Bus passes

Your generosity directly supports individuals and families navigating challenging times. Thank you for helping us make a positive impact this winter.

    UConn Public Health Sciences Shines at the 2025 APHA Expo

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    group photo of an APHA member, Makenna Lindsay, Shayna Cunningham, Dr. Stacey Brown, and Dr. Angela Bermudez- Millan

    And that’s a wrap! The UConn Department of Public Health Sciences had an incredible experience at the 2025 American Public Health Association (APHA) Expo.

    Our talented faculty members, alumni, and even Dr. Brown’s daughter took center stage to showcase their groundbreaking research through dynamic presentations and engaging posters. From innovative approaches to health equity to community-based interventions, their work reflected the breadth and impact of public health in action.

    The APHA Expo provided an invaluable platform for collaboration, learning, and inspiration—reminding us why public health is at the heart of positive change. It was truly inspiring to witness our team’s unwavering commitment to advancing the field and improving the well-being of communities everywhere.

    We’re proud to be part of a community that continues to push boundaries, share knowledge, and lead the way in shaping a healthier future.

    Check out our socials to view more photos and remember to give us a like!

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