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On behalf of the College of Public Health, congratulations to Kelly Beckwith on being honored with the 2024 Association of Schools & Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) Student Services Excellence Award. Beckwith has been instrumental in enhancing the public health education and experiences offered at Mason, exemplifying what it means to create a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Her work has ensured that public health training is embedded throughout the College across all units.
“Kelly is the lynchpin for public health education at Mason. She is deeply invested in each student’s success and is personally involved with guiding them to success in the program and after graduation. Her commitment to Mason students is second to none,” said Professor and Chair of Global and Community Health Carolyn Drews-Botsch, who nominated Beckwith.
The ASPPH Student Servies Excellence Award recognizes a faculty or staff member from an ASPPH-member, CEPH-accredited school or program who has devoted their career to the advancement of public health education. Beckwith’s contributions to the College embodies the spirit of the award through her willingness to go above and beyond for Mason public health students. She is driven by her determination to facilitate student success and strengthen the future public health workforce.
“There are many things I love about my job, but I am most passionate about providing career guidance, information, and connections to my students. It’s hard to figure out what you want to do in a broad field like public health, and no one can figure it out for you. It takes exploration and exposure, along with critical thinking, to find your career fit,” Beckwith said. “I try to showcase a wide variety of resources and opportunities to students to help them find their path to a meaningful career in public health.”
Beckwith has pioneered initiatives such as creating a mentorship program that pairs students with alumni to engage in deeper conversations about working in public health and leading the College’s Delta Omega chapter.
“Being honored with a national-level award makes me feel both honored and lucky. I have amazing colleagues at universities across the country who could easily win this award, but I’m glad that this year it was me,” said Beckwith.
Beckwith’s impact on public health education at Mason reaches beyond impacting student programs. Throughout her seven years at Mason, she has supported fellow faculty members and routinely seeks to bring innovative ideas from her colleagues to life. Beckwith was also key in Mason launching the first and only College of Public Health in Virginia.
“Kelly is simply amazing and works tirelessly for our students, our department, and our College,” said Drews-Botsch.
Beckwith will be recognized at the 2024 ASPPH Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 21, 2024.
Once again, congratulations to Kelly Beckwith for this remarkable distinction.