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Community and Behavioral Health News
The latest news from the Department of Community and Behavioral Health at the University of Iowa College of Public Health.
Webinar: HPV vaccination…is 45 the new 26?
The College of Public Health and Iowa Immunizes have launched a new webinar series celebrating two decades of cancer prevention, protection, and progress made possible by the HPV vaccine. The next webinar in the series is September 23, featuring Dr. Amy Wiser. Published August 7, 2026
O’Neal comments on efforts to prevent pedestrian accidents
Researchers at the University of Iowa, including Elizabeth O’Neal, assistant professor in the Department of Community and Behavioral Health, are looking at ways to increase pedestrian safety through education and updated infrastructure. Published July 6, 2026
Webinar: the HPV vaccine, progress, gaps, and the path to cancer elimination
The College of Public Health and Iowa Immunizes have launched a new webinar series celebrating two decades of cancer prevention, protection, and progress made possible by the HPV vaccine. The next webinar in the series is August 6, with a session on progress, gaps, and the path to cancer elimination. Published June 30, 2026
Plugged In to Public Health: Supporting rural dementia caregivers
Our guest is Emily Killian, a PhD candidate in the department of community and behavioral health at the University of Iowa. She discusses her research on caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and shares how her interest in aging and caregiving led her to study social support networks, particularly among caregivers in rural communities. Published June 15, 2026
Preventing harm before it occurs: Q&A with alumna Anne Abbott
University of Iowa College of Public Health alumna Anne Abbott (23PhD) is translating her training into impactful, community-driven work to prevent youth violence and mental health crises in Idaho. In this Q&A, she shares how her Iowa experience shaped her commitment to upstream prevention, the role of communication and evaluation in advancing public health, and her advice for the next generation of practitioners. Published June 1, 2026
VIDEO: Spring Commencement Highlights
The tassels have turned, the smiles are shining, and the celebration is in full swing! Take a front-row seat to the University of Iowa College of Public Health Spring 2026 Commencement! Relive the energy, smiles, hugs, proud moments, and nonstop Hawkeye spirit. From cap-and-gown excitement to unforgettable memories with family and friends, these grads are ready to take on the world. Published May 20, 2026
Webinar: the HPV vaccine and 20 years of cancer prevention
The College of Public Health and Iowa Immunizes have launched a new webinar series celebrating two decades of cancer prevention, protection, and progress made possible by the HPV vaccine. The next webinar in the series is June 10, with a session on the HPV vaccine and its role in cancer prevention. Published May 18, 2026
Watkins recognized for outstanding student support
Assistant Professor Shannon Watkins has been recognized with a Certificate of Distinction in the university’s Student Supervisor of the Year Awards, honoring her outstanding mentorship and support of student career development. The award is part of the broader Career Impact Awards, sponsored by the Pomerantz Career Center, which celebrate individuals and partners who go above and beyond to provide Hawkeyes with meaningful career guidance, resources, and opportunities. Published May 8, 2026
Webinar: the history and development of the HPV vaccine
The College of Public Health and Iowa Immunizes have launched a new webinar series celebrating two decades of cancer prevention, protection, and progress made possible by the HPV vaccine. The next webinar in the series is May 20, with a session on the development and history of the HPV vaccine. Published April 27, 2026
Emily Killian selected for Rural Iowa Research Award
Emily Killian, PhD candidate in the Department of Community and Behavioral Health, has been awarded the Rural Iowa Research Award to support her research focused on improving how social support for caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias is measured in rural Iowa. Published April 14, 2026