School of Public Health: Working with South Texas Communities

The heart of our work at the School of Public Health is community. We collaborate with partners throughout South Texas on research, experiential learning, and community events to improve the health of our region and contribute to the well-being of all.

 

 

Public Health Summit is coming April 6, 2026

Submit your abstract for the 2026 Public Health Summit, produced by the Kate Marmion School of Public Health and Bexar County Public Health.

HEALTH BEGINS HERE: COMMUNITY WISDOM, COLLECTIVE ACTION

Health doesn’t start in the doctor’s office — it starts where we live, work, learn, and connect.
This Public Health Summit is a space for sharing the powerful ways communities in South Texas are driving change and shaping healthier futures. Whether it is a neighborhood garden, a school partnership, a coalition or grass-roots effort, or an economic development campaign, your work matters here.

We are gathering community leaders, researchers, public health practitioners, educators, policymakers, and residents to exchange strategies, celebrate wins, and spark new collaborations.

Date and Location

Date: April 6th, 2026 

Location: UT San Antonio Downtown Campus

Presentation Categories

  1. Healthcare Access and Quality - Ensuring fair and attentive care for all individuals.
  2. Access to Good Schools and Educators - Enhancing learning opportunities as a pathway to better health.
  3. Jobs, Income, and Financial Security - Addressing financial factors that influence access to vital resources, such as nutritious food.
  4. Community Life and Support Systems - Strengthening relationships, networks, and community connections
  5. Neighborhoods, Housing, and Transportation - Designing spaces that promote health and safety.

Presentation Formats

  • Oral Presentations – Symposium style or moderated panel (50 minutes)
  • Poster Presentations – Visual displays with opportunities for interactive discussion

Who Should Submit
We welcome contributions from a broad range of voices, including:

  • Community-based organizations and coalitions
  • Other groups partnering with community-based organizations, such as:
    • Public health practitioners and healthcare providers
    • Educators and policy advocates
    • Academic researchers and students
    • Residents and lived-experience experts

Abstract Guidelines

  • Word limit is 300 words, double-spaced and in 12-point font.
  • Structure requirements consist of title, background/purpose, methods/approach, results/findings, and implications for community health
  • Citations and references are optional.
  • Up to one figure and table may be included and do not count against the word limit.
  • Indicate preferred track(s) and presentation format (symposium, moderated panel, poster)
  • No more than two abstracts per lead author may be submitted.
  • For oral presentations that include symposia and panels, no more than 3 speakers per panel for a 50-minute session. Single speaker abstracts will be part of presentations that include two other speakers matched the organizing committee by theme.

Key Dates

  • Abstract Submission Deadline: January 23, 2026
  • Notification of Acceptance: February 16, 2025

How to Submit
Submit your abstract using this form: https://forms.gle/FB7x4EMPM1A2rPeP9

Join us in San Antonio as we highlight innovative, community-led approaches in South Texas to improving health and advancing equity through collective action.

Questions? Contact: Shama Tajani, tajani@uthscsa.edu

Community Engagement