I am excited to share with you an important milestone in our journey as an organization – the celebration of CEPH's 50th Anniversary. As we reflect on the remarkable progress we've made, it is an opportune time to express our gratitude to the visionaries who laid the foundation for our success.
CEPH's inception was a collaborative effort between the Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) and the American Public Health Association (APHA), whose commitment to the accreditation process dates back to 1946. The transition to CEPH was shepherded by Dr. John Romani, a professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, Chair of APHA’s Committee on Professional Education, and later the President of APHA. His dedication and leadership played a pivotal role in establishing an independent accrediting agency.
On December 11, 1974, CEPH’s articles of incorporation were signed by the executive directors of ASPH (Ray Cotton) and APHA (William McBeath), along with APHA employee Maggie Matthews, who became CEPH’s first executive director. Since then, our organization has been led by three more individuals – Janet Strauss, Pat Evans, and me.
When CEPH was founded, we accredited 10 schools of public health. Today, our impact has grown exponentially, accrediting 256 units, including 68 schools of public health, 160 public health programs, and 28 standalone baccalaureate programs. Additionally, there are over 40 official applicants for accreditation expected to join our ranks in the next three years.
We are excited to embark on a year-long celebration, culminating with the highly anticipated 50th Anniversary Accreditation & Education Forum scheduled for October 2024. This event promises to be a celebration of our achievements, providing a platform for collaboration and envisioning the future of higher education in public health. We look forward to engaging with our community and honoring the legacy that has shaped CEPH into the organization it is today. Save the date and join us for a memorable conference on October 26th in Minneapolis, Minnesota!
As we celebrate this milestone, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the foresight of our founders and their unwavering commitment to quality education in public health. Thanks to them, the partnership between ASPPH, APHA, and CEPH is thriving, and our reach continues to expand.
Here's to the next 50 years of excellence and innovation in public health higher education!
Warm regards,
Laura Rasar King
Executive Director
Join us for a one-day, multi-session conference highlighting
good practices & helpful strategies in public health education.
50th Anniversary Accreditation & Education Forum
Saturday, October 26, 2024
9:00 AM-4:30 PM
Hyatt Regency Minneapolis
Minneapolis, MN
Registration will open in May 2024 - Stay tuned!
The Council on Education for Public Health is seeking dynamic and engaging 12-15 minute presentations that will provide participants with actionable ideas and takeaways.
All submissions are due by June 3, 2024. Selected presenters will have their registration fee reimbursed/waived!
Please note: Only proposals from accredited and applicant (IAS accepted) schools and programs will be considered.
Please contact Nicole Williams with any questions.