From sidewalks to systems: UK celebrates Public Health Week

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 3, 2026) — Public health is all around us, from the sidewalks we walk on to the food we eat and the care we can access. National Public Health Week at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health celebrates that work while highlighting the students and faculty shaping it every day. 

Running April 5-11, this year’s events focus on community and connection. A campus walk, interactive wellness fair and an engaging seminar give students a chance to experience public health in action and see the impact it has on daily life. 

For senior McKenna Green, who is pursuing degrees in public health and psychology, the week offers a clear look at how classroom concepts translate into real-world impact. 

“Public Health Week is basically a time to step back and appreciate what public health has done for communities all around us, as well as within the college at UK,” Green said. “It’s a great time to meet faculty, current students and potential students, and just celebrate how far we’ve come — from simple interventions like sidewalks and stoplights to vaccines and other health initiatives. It’s a cool experience and a time to build a sense of community.” 

Green said the week highlights the College of Public Health’s tight-knit environment. 

“Being a smaller college, you really get to connect with everyone. Everyone cares about each other,” she said. “During Public Health Week, you get to say hello and meet up with everyone again, celebrate together, and feel that sense of community. It makes a big impact and really makes the week special.” 

The week kicks off with the campus walk on Tuesday, scheduled for the morning to encourage participation. 

“The walk is about 30 minutes along a gentle, accessible path with no stairs,” said Kaylee Thornsberry, College of Public Health events manager. “We stop for a group photo, have music, line leaders, pom-poms and fight song fans. There are also small giveaways along the route too.” 

Green said the walk is a simple but meaningful way to start the week. 

“You’re around students, faculty, and even other community members,” she said. “It really shows that public health isn’t just theory — it’s something people are actively part of every day.” 

Wellness Wednesday, one of the week’s most popular events, allows students to pop in and out of activity stations hosted by academic programs and research centers. 

“Wellness Wednesday is similar to how we run Public Health Halloween, but focused on wellness,” Thornsberry said. “Activities span from individual health, like build-your-own granola, to community wellness. The event runs 11 a.m.-2 p.m., so students can participate between classes. Those who visit all stations and complete a ‘passport’ get a CPH reversible mood octopus plush.” 

Green said the event reinforces the breadth of public health. 

“You see that it’s more than a local health department or a restaurant inspection,” she said. “It’s daily health and wellness, like eating properly, staying active and protecting yourself and others in your community. Public health really is everywhere — it’s kind of hard to unsee it once you experience it.” 

The week concludes with the Big Blue Public Health Illumination Seminar Series, which will focus on the Advancing Kentucky Together Network and explore the network’s opportunities for collaboration within and beyond the university. The seminar is 2-3 p.m. April 9 in the Gatton Student Center’s Senate Chamber, with hybrid options available.

“Combining the seminar series with Public Health Week made sense to highlight our final session of the year and keep the festivities going,” Thornsberry said.  Attendees can ask questions, enjoy coffee, snacks, and swag — it’s a great way to round out the week.” 

Thornsberry said the week also offers a chance for reflection. 

“National Public Health Week lets people step back and acknowledge the innovative work they’ve been doing, whether they’re students or faculty,” she said. “It’s a moment to celebrate and reflect on why you chose public health, and to just have fun and enjoy the community we’ve built.” 

Green agreed, emphasizing the personal impact on students. 

“It reminds you that what you’re learning applies to everyday life,” she said. “And that’s what makes it meaningful.”