Last year, I ran with team FSPH in the Los Angeles Charity Challenge Half Marathon. While I would argue the name does not lie—it was quite a challenge on my weak ankles—I am ready to increase the stakes. This year I will be running again, but for all 26.2 exhilarating miles from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica Pier.
The reasons for my participation are the same as last year: my passion for public education and the importance of research, and my desire to help provide financial support for my peers. All funds raised are distributed as stipends for students completing their public health internships (a requirement for masters of public health students). Students work far and wide, facilitating health system improvements, organizing campaigns and programs to promote health and social justice, and leading research projects for governmental agencies and non-profit organizations. Your financial support not only promotes their learning, it also creates real impact. I have been honored to see this impact throughout the past year, and I look forward to seeing all that this year's cohort accomplishes.
Please feel free to contact me at cjromano@ucla.edu if you have any questions! If you'd like to learn about some of the student work I've referenced above, check out the UCLA FSPH Magazine. Thank you for your support!