PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — The Brown University School of Public Health is kicking its engagement with the community up another notch with a newly formed Community Advisory Board.

The board’s first meeting is Monday afternoon, Oct. 20, 2014. Members include Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts and representatives from the Rhode Island Health Center Association, the Providence Center, the Rhode Island Department of Health, Progresso Latino, the African Alliance, the City of Providence, the YMCA, RISD, Nalari Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island, the Providence Housing Authority, and the Rhode Island Free Clinic.

“The Community Advisory Board's charge is to provide feedback and strategic input about the new School of Public Health's educational and research priorities,” said Amy Nunn, assistant professor (research) of behavioral and social sciences, who works with the board.

Terrie Fox Wetle, dean of the School of Public Health, said having a Community Advisory Board allows the school to strengthen connections with organizations and agencies focused on population health. The school’s other initiatives to boost public partnerships include the Community Policy Committee, which helps with outreach to partners in the Rhode Island Department of Health and at universities across the state.